It has been designed to appeal to younger, price-sensitive buyers, commented Joe Eberhardt, Chrysler's executive vice president of marketing. "With an entry-level Jeep, we have the chance to do that."
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| Intended to compete with Chevy's Equinox or Honda's CR-V, the Compass is designed primarily for on-pavement prowess. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
The Compass incorporates Jeep design traits into a vehicle designed primarily for on-pavement prowess. It will be less expensive than the Liberty when produced, targeting compact SUV buyers that might otherwise be looking at Chevy's Equinox or Honda's CR-V.
The two additional Jeeps to come on market will be a large 7-occupant model based on the upcoming Grand Cherokee, dubbed the Commander. An attractively styled Commander Concept debuted in 2000, and DCX insiders have stated that the new model will carry forward some of its styling cues.
Ever since the Jeep Dakar Concept debuted in 1999 Jeep fans have been calling for it to be produced, and it looks as if the wait is finally over. The new four-door TJ (Wrangler) will most likely change from its initial Dakar conception, however, as a completely redesigned TJ (Wrangler) is expected around the same time. The new stretched TJ (Wrangler) Unlimited makes the new 4-door model possible, maximizing the 15-inch longer platform.
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| After all the pleading from fans, Jeep has said something similar to the Jeep Dakar Concept will be produced. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
"Next year, we'll start the expansion to the lineup," commented Dieter Zetsche, CEO of the Chrysler Group, which includes the Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, and many would agree, HEMI brands.
HEMI in mind, the automaker's acclaimed 5.7-liter V8 finds its way into the new Grand Cherokee for 2005, and makes a major improvement in on-demand power without negatively affecting fuel economy due to its innovative cylinder deactivation feature. Jeep insiders also made mention of an SRT-8 version of the Cherokee, featuring what can only be imagined as the same 425 horsepower 6.1-liter HEMI that will soon be offered in the Chrysler 300 SRT 8. The 2005 Grand Cherokee's base HEMI makes 330 horsepower and 375 lb-ft of torque, slightly detuned compared to the 300C/Dodge Magnum RT.