Details of future Jeep models are surfacing in the USA and reveal an interesting insight into what we can expect in the next few years.
The Compass got a face-lift in 2011 and is due to arrive in Australia in the coming weeks. It now resembles a smaller version of the flagship Grand Cherokee. The Chrysler five-year plan calls for replacing the Compass and Patriot with a compact based on Fiat's compact CUSW platform in 2013, likely as a 2014 model. The vehicle will be built for global markets, including Australia, at Fiat's Mirafiori plant in Turin, Italy. The replacement vehicle will share many components and systems with the Alfa Romeo C-SUV that will be built in Mirafiori by the end of 2012. The vehicle will be offered with all-wheel and front-wheel drive. Chrysler's product plan calls just one vehicle to replace the Compass and Patriot siblings in 2013. Based on the investment the company made in the Compass, look for the Patriot to disappear after the Compass switches to Fiat's compact CUSW platform in 2013.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer
The Jeep Flagship model will be the Grand Wagoneer 7 Seat that will share the Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango platform, think Jeep Commander with a much greater level of luxury, capability and flexibility. In January, CEO Sergio Marchionne said a seven-seat Grand Wagoneer would be coming in 2013 most likely as a 2014 model.
Jeep Liberty/Cherokee
This is the most significant model due for a much needed upgrade. It seems that the KK replacement will be a softer All Wheel Drive vehicle based on a version of Fiat's compact CUSW platform called CUSW Plus.. The KK replacement is scheduled to be launched in 2013, likely as a 2014 model, . The model will not have low range capability and will be AWD only, though the platform could accommodate a front-drive only version. Expect to see a lot of Fiat technology and a much less capable 4WD vehicle than the current model.
Jeep Compact B-Jeep
Jeep Brand CEO Michael Manley confirmed the so called B-Jeep would debut in late 2013 or early 2014, likely as a 2014 model. The smallest Jeep will be designed for the North American and Latin American markets and made in Toluca, Mexico, where Chrysler now builds the Fiat 500 and Dodge Journey. it may not appear in other markets.
Jeep Grand Cherokee:
Remains basically unchanged over the next three years. Six cylinder versions of the Grand Cherokee will eventually get Chrysler's eight-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Wrangler;
The iconic Wrangler will also remain fundamentally unchanged with only minor changes and upgrades and will be the mainstay of Jeeps 4WD capability remaining true to its off-road heritage
Sources; Autoblog, Auto News, Chrysler LLC
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