While Stellantis has temporarily halted production at several of its European facilities, the automotive giant is simultaneously ramping up manufacturing in other regions. One of the most notable developments involves Jeep’s smallest SUV, the Avenger, which is set to enter a new production phase in South America. First launched in 2022, the subcompact model will soon be manufactured at Stellantis’ Porto Real Automotive Plant in Rio de Janeiro, with its Brazilian debut scheduled for 2026. Until now, the Avenger has been produced in Poland, sharing the Tychy plant with related models such as the Fiat 600 and the Alfa Romeo Junior. As Jeep’s entry-level SUV, the Avenger was designed to establish the brand in Europe’s highly competitive small crossover segment.
Starting in 2026, the Porto Real plant will include the Avenger in its production lineup, joining other locally produced vehicles such as the Citroen C3, C3 Aircross, and Basalt. This expansion allows Jeep to launch the Avenger in Brazil, South America’s largest automotive market and a critical battleground for subcompact SUVs. To support this initiative, Stellantis has committed $560 million to invest in the Porto Real facility between 2025 and 2030. The investment is intended to boost production capacity, strengthen the local supply chain, and enhance technology within the plant. Early in 2025, Stellantis hired 300 new employees and is preparing to onboard five additional suppliers to support the upcoming production. The plan to build the Avenger in Brazil was first publicly confirmed in May, coinciding with Jeep’s 10th-anniversary celebrations in the country. Once in production, the new SUV will join the Renegade, Compass, and Commander, making it the fourth Jeep model manufactured locally.
The Brazilian-spec Avenger is expected to feature several modifications compared to its European counterpart to cater to local market preferences. While the vehicle will retain its characteristic chunky exterior, its length of 4,084 mm positions it directly against competitors such as the VW Tera, Fiat Pulse, and Renault Kardian. The interior may also receive Brazil-specific updates, including new trim configurations and potentially some additional convenience or tech features tailored to local customers.
Under the hood, more significant changes are anticipated. The European Avenger is currently offered with a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, available in both conventional and 48V mild-hybrid versions, as well as a fully electric variant. For Brazil, Stellantis may opt for a Fiat-sourced 1.0-liter turbo three-cylinder engine, paired with a 12V mild-hybrid system and flex-fuel capability, allowing the vehicle to run on ethanol blends common in the region. This same powertrain has already been deployed in the Peugeot 208 and 2008, which share CMP platform underpinnings with the Avenger. These adjustments aim to ensure the SUV meets the unique demands of Brazilian consumers while leveraging locally familiar and proven technology.