Jeep will follow the launch of the new Jeep Wrangler with an all-new Jeep Cherokee, its first pick-up and the return of the Grand Wagoneer by 2020, by which point the firm will also offer a plug-in hybrid version of every model in its range.
The US brand is the world’s largest SUV maker and is using the launch of its most iconic model, the Wrangler – replaced for the first time since 2006 – as a springboard for further growth towards annual sales of two million, up from 1.4m in 2016.
Speaking to Autocar during the Wrangler’s launch at last year's Los Angeles motor show, Jeep boss Mike Manley confirmed the new models due in the next three years, with the period beyond 2020 likely to include the firm’s first electric car.
First, Jeep is about to launch the Compass in the UK. Manley calls it the latest “compounding building block” around boosting the brand in the UK and mainland Europe, the star example being the firm’s most successful model, the Renegade. Manley said the new Compass, a Nissan Qashqai - sized model, is “crucial” for the brand as it competes in Europe’s largest segment.
It will be followed this time next year by an all-new Cherokee, which sits above the Compass in Jeep’s range. Also in 2018, Jeep will launch a mild-hybrid 48V version of every model in its line-up. Each will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and mild-hybrid system that allows for improved torque delivery for off-road driving, better fuel economy and quieter on-road manners, according to Manley.
By 2020, Jeep will have launched a plug-in hybrid version of every model in its range, including the Wrangler, the standard version of which will reach the UK next year.
Manley wouldn’t be drawn on the arrival of pure-electric models but said they were inevitable given how economy regulations around the world are tightening.
Jeep has recently launched a 679bhp Trackhawk version of its Grand Cherokee, which, Manley said, is important to give a “halo effect” to the range. The marque also plans to offer customers more luxurious versions of its cars, including more models in premium Summit trim and a return of the range-topping Grand Wagoneer seven-seater in 2020, a year after the launch of its first pick-up.
Q&A Mike Manley, CEO, Jeep:
How important is the new Wrangler to Jeep?
“The Wrangler can trace its lineage back to 1941. It was not only the start of the brand, but the mainstay of the brand. It’s recognised around the world as an American icon. It’s the very embodiment of the brand. It’s the authenticity, the freedom and adrenaline, and connection to the outside. It’s cherished, so you can see how important it is to get the next-generation car right.”
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Future Jeep sales in the UK
It's always struck me as odd that while we are in the middle of a Crossover/SUV boom that Jeep sales are languishing in the doldrums,since Fiat took over the Chrysler range it's well on the way to oblivion,what's gone wrong? both the Cherokees used to sell quite well and on the Chrysler range both the 300C & Voyager did quite well too. Since the new regime took over list price had increased,the dealer network has been reduced and the Chrysler & Dodge marques junked. It's not exactly moves that have inspired punters to go banging on Jeep UK dealers doors is it. So cut list prices dump the Compass and revive the dealer network then just possibly things could look up
ianp55 wrote:
Its a very good point. The 300c is still made in RHD, and available for about £35k in Australia. Even the SRT is just over £40k. Jeep Prices have increased far too far, which just means more discounting and depreciation.
Valuing heritage
So good to see how Jeep clearly has a reverence for the Wrangler and it’s embodiment of the core brand. Heritage, like reputation, takes time to earn but can so easily evaporate in the headlong pursuit of the latest automotive fashion. I can’t wait to see the new new Wrangler JL Rubicon when it arrives in the UK, but sad we no longer have any home grown alternatives.