by Thanos Pappas
- Jeep Avenger production starts in 2026 at Stellantis’ Porto Real factory in Brazil.
- Stellantis commits R$3 billion ($560M) to expand and upgrade Brazilian facilities.
- Brazilian-spec Jeep Avenger may feature a new engine versus European version.
While Stellantis is pausing production at several of its European sites, the company is ramping things up elsewhere. Jeep’s smallest SUV is about to enter a new phase, with the Avenger set to start rolling off the line in South America. First introduced in 2022, the smallest Jeep will be built at Stellantis’ Porto Real Automotive Plant in Rio de Janeiro, with its Brazilian debut scheduled for 2026.
The subcompact model currently calls Poland home, sharing the Tychy plant with the related Fiat 600 and Alfa Romeo Junior. It was designed as Jeep’s entry point into the SUV range, giving the brand a foothold in Europe’s popular small crossover market.
Expanding South American Footprint
From 2026, the Porto Real facility will add the Avenger to its output, joining the locally built Citroen C3, C3 Aircross, and Basalt. This move clears the way for Jeep to bring the model to Brazil, the largest market in South America and a key battleground for smaller SUVs.
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Stellantis will invest R$3 billion ($560 million) in Porto Real between 2025 and 2030. The goal is to expand production and strengthen the supply chain and technology in the region. The company hired 300 new employees in early 2025, and is getting ready to welcome five new suppliers.
The decision to assemble the Avenger in Brazil was first confirmed in May during Jeep’s 10th anniversary celebrations in the country. When it arrives, the new SUV will line up alongside the Renegade, Compass, and Commander, making it the fourth Jeep produced locally.
Will It Differ From The European Model?
The Brazilian-spec Jeep Avenger will reportedly feature a few changes compared to its European counterpart, in order to satisfy the needs of local customers. Its chunky exterior design is expected to be carried over, with the length of 4,084 mm (160.8 inches) positioning it right against the likes of the VW Tera, Fiat Pulse and Renault Kardian. However, it could gain a few market-specific features inside the cabin and a new trim structure.
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More important changes could take place under the skin. The subcompact SUV is currently available with a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine in regular and 48V mild-hybrid guise, as well as a fully electric version. However, the Brazilian model could swap it for a Fiat-sourced turbo 1.0-liter three-cylinder mill with a 12V mild hybrid system and flex-fuel capability. The same setup has already found its way under the hood of the Peugeot 208 and 2008 that also ride on CMP underpinnings.
We expect to learn all of the details in the local launch of the model in the coming months. Hugo Domingues, Jeep Vice President for South America, commented: “The Jeep Avenger is a global success, and I’m sure it will be a success here too, as Brazil and Jeep are a perfect fit! We have an incredible legacy and will continue to provide unforgettable adventures.”