The Sino-US trade war is all set to happen inside India. The established Jeep Compass, SUV boasts of a unique position which had largely remained unopposed till date. However, things are poised to change as the entry of Haval Jolion to India is expected to happen before the end of the year.
Haval Jolion applied for its trademark registration in India in the early April. The trademark was granted on 31st of May, 2021. With the legalities of the product launch almost nearing finish it is clear that the Haval Jolion might traverse the roads of the country before the end of 2021.
The 4.47m SUV is manufactured under the Haval moniker by the Great Wall Motors of China. Jolion (pronounced as Chu-lian) means “The First Love”. Well, it is certainly the first love of GWM in India. The Sports Utility Vehicle is based on the modular LEMON platform that can be customised to use on all sedans, MPV and SUVs. The modular nature of the platform also supposedly increases the steering accuracy and reduces the centre of gravity, thereby enhancing the stability of the vehicle.
Jolion comes in 6 different colours in China and it will be expected to retain the same options in India. The SUV is powered by the 1.5 litre turbocharged diesel engine with a 7 speed automatic gearbox. It has 4 automatic driving modes each suited for a specific terrain or a specific nature of the drive. The luxury interiors and the modern console provides great experience and comfort inside the vehicle.
Jeep Compass had been the love of upper middle class and affluent, till date. The American brand Jeep offers safety, security and a sense of class. With the entry of the Haval Jolion, it is to be seen whether the Jeep can retain its customers and keep them in love with the SUV or if the Chinese first love will unseat the uncrowned king in this section of the market?
With saturation of western markets, it has become more and more important for the automobile giants to enter the nascent Indian market. A large aspiring population and rising income levels have made it an attractive market. However, will the Chinese company stand strong against the COVID onslaught that is plaguing the automobile industry?
