Sketched! New Jeep Patriot & Compass Rallye
We've been updating you periodically on the "car-based" Jeeps that will be coming out in the next year or so. Now DaimlerChrysler has released two concept vehicles (as in "thinly disguised production models"), the Patriot and Compass Rallye. DCX describes these vehicles as "compact Jeep 4x4s that would deliver fun, freedom, utility, capability, as well as the potential for exceptional fuel economy and interior flexibility-all at a great value."
Of the two, the Patriot (code-named MK74 according to Automotive News) is the rough-and-tumble one. It bears a close resemblance to the Grand Cherokee and other Jeep SUVs, plus the factory claims "all-new Jeep off-road technology would ensure Patriot could be a Jeep Trail Rated 4x4." That "could be" has us a bit worried. It sounds like Jeep isn't too sure that a front-wheel-drive next-generation-Neon-based AWD traction system would cut it on the Rubicon.
With its hunkered-down stance, the Compass (MK49) looks destined for pavement performance. The press release seems to reinforce that, using such phrases as "targets new buyers who might not have previously considered the brand."
Both vehicles made their debut at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September (about a month before our press deadline). We'll have actual photos of these concepts and some concrete info about engines, drivelines, and such next month.
Spied! Wrangler four-Door
Rumor has it the Wrangler will be restyled for the '07 model year, and a four-door model will be added as part of the revamp. Here's a sneak peek at that four-door Wrangler, captured during rigorous drive-thru restaurant testing in the Midwest. The spies who caught the Jeep said it will be "loosely" based on the Jeep Rescue concept, though not quite as big. It's certainly possible-the shape of the greenhouse and the general proportions do look similar.
Jeep execs quoted in trade publications have indicated that the Wrangler will remain a body-on-frame, off-road-oriented vehicle, to differentiate the new four-door model from the more carlike Liberty. We aren't as happy to hear, though, that the 4.0L inline six may be replaced with the Liberty's 3.7L V-6. Yes, on paper it's more powerful, but it just doesn't have the grunt of the 'liner. Now, if only Jeep were to put the Liberty's diesel in the Wrangler. Can you say, "295 lb-ft of torque at 1,800 rpm"?
Thinking that the Unlimited just isn't big enough, Jeep will offer a four-door Wrangler for '07. Yes, there is a prototype under all that camo. Word has it that the four-door Wrangler will resemble a downsized version of the Jeep Rescue concept truck. We can see the similarities in overall shape.
Rumored! Other Jeep Plans
In addition to everything else we've told you about, we can expect these changes and additions to the Jeep lineup in the coming years, according to a new-product roundup in Automotive News:
Gladiator: A decision to build a pickup is coming by year's end. Should a production-based Gladiator (or some other design) get the green light, expect it by '08 or '09.
Grand Cherokee: A diesel engine is likely; it will be restyled (again) in '08 or '09.
Liberty: Gets a full reworking for '08. Don't hold your breath hoping for more off-road capability, but anything's possible.
Choreographed! Jeep Owners Make Flag
What you're looking at are 140 Jeeps forming Old Glory at Camp Jeep in the Pocono Mountains, to promote the National Anthem Project, a national effort (of which Jeep is a sponsor) to reteach Americans the words to "The Star-Spangled Banner."
We were shocked to read that two out of three Americans do not know the words to the national anthem, according to a Harris Poll survey. We know four out of five celebrities can't sing the thing worth a damn, but we had no idea so few other Americans knew the words. OK, pop quiz time. Do you know how the song goes? We've printed some of the lyrics on page 28.
Rocked! Authentic Jeep Accessories
The Mopar accessories line now includes an authentic (as in "from the factory") Off-Road Enthusiast Package for the Wrangler that includes Off-Road front and rear bumpers, rock rails, corner guards, skidplates, and winches. The bumpers, skidplates, and rails feature an electrocoat and powdercoat black finish to meet Jeep's corrosion standards. The front bumper has been tested to work with the factory airbag system, while the rear bumper will clear the factory tow hook and all Mopar tow hitches. The rails are designed to mount at the same points as the Rubicon's rails, making installation a simple bolt-on. Skidplates are available to cover the engine and transmission oil pans, and there's one for the steering box too. Regarding the winches, Mopar already offered the Warn 9000i; a 9,500-pound-capacity Warn winch is being added to the line, with low-profile winches to follow. For more info, log on to www.mopar.com.