Autoblog

2014 Jeep Cherokee flaunts its new contemporary curves

Michael Harley — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:01:00 EST

Filed under: New York Auto Show, SUV, Jeep, Off-Road

Only slightly more than one month ago, undisguised (and less-than-flattering) shots of the all-new 2014 Jeep Cherokee were leaked online. Later that day, in an effort to suppress the uprising, Jeep countered with its own official photography offering us much clearer front and three-quarter views. We've been left to digest those pictures for weeks.

Now, mere hours before the fabric comes sliding off its newest mid-size sport-utility at its live reveal at the New York Auto Show, Jeep has released dozens of new images showing all four corners, plus a few interior shots, of its new Cherokee.

As we previously mentioned, the 2014 Cherokee rides atop a modular Alfa Romeo-derived platform (shared with the Dodge Dart). We've now also learned that the new Jeep will offer both front- and all-wheel drive with a choice between a 2.4-liter four-cylinder (184 horsepower) and a new 3.2-liter Pentastar V6 (271 horsepower) powerplant. A new nine-speed (!) automatic transmission, a first in this segment, is standard across the board. There will be four different models: Sport, Latitude, Limited (above) and Trailhawk (right), with the most fuel efficient delivering 31 mpg on the highway, and the most rugged earning Jeep's "Trail Rated" badging while boasting Selec-Terrain and Active Drive Lock (locking rear differential), the latter being the most aggressive of the three separate all-wheel drive systems available.

The new front end is obviously its most controversial feature - a sculpted design that improves aerodynamic drag, promotes global appeal yet still retains the Jeep DNA and heritage with its seven-slotted iconic grille, says the automaker. Assembled in Toledo, Ohio, the new Cherokee arrives in showrooms later this year. For all of the details, get comfortable in your chair before checking out the lengthy press release below.

Continue reading 2014 Jeep Cherokee flaunts its new contemporary curves

2014 Jeep Cherokee flaunts its new contemporary curves originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chrysler adding 200 jobs at Ohio Jeep Wrangler plant

Chris Paukert — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 15:43:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, SUV, Plants/Manufacturing, Crossover, Jeep

Chrysler is betting that the Jeep Wrangler will continue its strong sales surge as it continues to push the legendary brand out across the globe. The Auburn Hills automaker is reportedly adding 200 workers at the Toledo, Ohio plant that builds the Wrangler. What's more, those new hires will be at their posts quickly - they'll be on the job by April 1. Of those 200 workers, 130 employees will be there to relieve those who need breaks.

Why do they need so many relief workers? The Toledo Jeep Complex is currently working at a torrid pace with two ten-hour shifts. A third shift has been ruled out for the moment because of a production botttleneck - the plant's paint shop is already maxed out. According to Reuters, Wrangler production in 2012 cleared 200,000 units, and US sales were up by 16 percent.

Another part of the Toledo plant is presently down as Chrysler retools the line to build Jeep's divisively styled Liberty replacement, the Cherokee (seen in our gallery below). Production for the new model is scheduled to begin toward the end of May.

Chrysler adding 200 jobs at Ohio Jeep Wrangler plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Mar 2013 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gilles defends 2014 Jeep Cherokee design as "very contemporary"

Jeffrey N. Ross — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:28:00 EST

Filed under: Crossover, Jeep, Design/Style

Following the forced-hand introduction of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, there has definitely been a mix of responses revolving around everything from its design to the return of the legendary nameplate. As evidence of this, just check out the 1,000+ comments in our article last week and some of the many opinions that were voiced. Following this not-too-warm reception, Ward's Auto had a chance to talk to Chrysler designer chief - and SRT president - Ralph Gilles, who shed a little more light on the styling direction of the new Cherokee.

Rather than looking to previous models for inspiration, Gilles says that the Cherokee has been designed to be more contemporary, with Mark Allen, head of Jeep design, adding that a main goal was to make sure the design still looks modern five years from now. Interestingly, Gilles does point out that one of the design elements incorporated on the new Cherokee that pays homage to past Jeeps is the sharply downward angle for the leading edge of the beltline, which he notes is meant to mimic the look of the old YJ and TJ Wrangler models fitted with half doors. Of course, the squared-off wheel openings - a signature Jeep cue - are still used.

This is probably a design that will need to be seen on the street in actual daylight to properly assess, but in the meantime, we'll bring you full images and impressions when the Cherokee debuts at next month's New York Auto Show.

Gilles defends 2014 Jeep Cherokee design as "very contemporary" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Feb 2013 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Autoblog Podcast #322

Dan Roth — Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:45:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Podcasts, Bentley, Jeep, Lincoln, Subaru, Toyota, Tesla, Electric

2014 Jeep Cherokee, Tesla profit, 2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur, Ford Atlas chief designer Gordon Platto

Episode #322 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, Tesla's cautious announcement of a first-quarter profit, the 2014 Bentley Flying Spur and Zach and Dan share an interview with Gordon Platto, chief designer for the Ford Atlas Concept truck from this year's Detroit Auto Show. We wrap with a couple of your questions, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #322:

Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
2013 Toyota Prius V
2013 Lincoln MKS

Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross

Runtime: 01:26:23

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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #322

Autoblog Podcast #322 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #322 LIVE!

Dan Roth — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 16:16:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Bentley, Ford, Jeep, Tesla, Electric

We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #322 tonight, and you can drop us your questions and comments regarding the rest of the week's news via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #322

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #322 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 16:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2014 Jeep Cherokee uncovered with bold new look

Seyth Miersma — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 11:10:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, Jeep, Design/Style, Off-Road

Jeep has been shuttling around Alfa Romeo-based test mules and camouflaged prototypes of its replacement for the current Liberty for some time now. Those heavily disguised vehicles may have offered a glimpse of the new Jeep, but a new set of production-line images from Jalopnik tell a much more complete story.

Jalopnik report indicates unequivocally that the Cherokee name will be re-upped in place of Liberty, though it doesn't spell out exactly where that thinking comes from, though a name change has been rumored for some time. Chances are good that the same source that delivered these factory images delivered the name, as well.

The Cherokee absolutely has some Alfa Romeo DNA in its makeup, the final product is far from looking like its Guilietta ancestor. The athletic, high-waisted design is relatively attractive from what we can see here, though the grille and headlight treatment are sure to cause a lot of ruckus when the Cherokee makes its official debut at the New York Auto Show in April. The very narrow, pointed headlamps are pinched in a not particularly Jeep-ish fashion, and the curved, short version of the seven-slot grille is far more rakish than anything that Jeep has produced to date.

The Cherokee name, plus some fairly high wheel arches, hint that the new Jeep may still carry the vaunted "Trail Rated" stamp of approval. Good news for those purists still fearful of Jeep brand dilution. Inside we see a dial for Jeep's Selec-Terrain drive management system, as well.

We expect to have much more information about the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, as we draw closer to its expected debut in New York. Until then, make sure to weigh in on our poll, below.

View Poll

2014 Jeep Cherokee uncovered with bold new look originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 Feb 2013 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jeep Cherokee left teetering on border fence after failed crossing attempt [w/video]

Zach Bowman — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 14:41:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Government/Legal, Videos, Jeep, Off-Road

The XJ Jeep Cherokee is a remarkably capable off-roader. With good approach and departure angles, decent suspension flex from the factory and stout running gear, it will get you where you need to go within reason.

Unfortunately for some would-be immigrants, even that talented machine doesn't have the break-over angle necessary to drive over the border fence between the US and Mexico. Border Patrol agents came across this scene recently while on patrol, wherein a few innovative minds came up with a set of ramps to carry their XJ up and over the 14-foot-tall fence.

The Boarder Patrol has since seized the XJ, which means it will likely languish on a government lot until it goes to auction. While we imagine the vehicle's occupants simply set out on foot after the high-center incident, next time they might have a bit more luck with a Wrangler. You can check out a video of the SUV on the fence below.

Continue reading Jeep Cherokee left teetering on border fence after failed crossing attempt [w/video]

Jeep Cherokee left teetering on border fence after failed crossing attempt [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 14:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #300 LIVE!

Dan Roth — Mon, 17 Sep 2012 17:27:00 EST

We record Episode #300 of the Autoblog Podcast tonight, and with the milestone episode, we welcome back recently departed and dearly loved host Chris Shunk for a guest slot. You can drop us your questions and comments via our Q&A module below. Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes if you haven't already done so, and if you want to take it all in live, tune in to our UStream (audio only) channel at 10:00 PM Eastern tonight.

Discussion Topics for Autoblog Podcast Episode #300

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #300 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Sep 2012 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jeep Cherokee and Grand Wagoneer to return

George Kennedy — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 08:00:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Crossover, Dodge, Jeep, Rumormill, Off-Road, Fiat

Big changes are in store for the Jeep brand, bringing in models from both the Dodge and Fiat brands, according to an Automotive News report. In addition to new powertrains aimed at improving fuel economy, it appears that Fiat models will underpin new vehicles that will replace some less-capable offerings from the iconic off-road brand.

The biggest change is the yet-to-be named Fiat model that is likely to be based on the new Panda 4x4. According to AN, it will be built alongside the Fiat 500X in Turin, Italy. No name has been given to this model, but it has been confirmed that it will have at least one trail-rated variant.

Elsewhere in the lineup, the Dodge Durango three-row SUV is set to be replaced with an all-new full-size model, possibly called the Grand Wagoneer. This model would compete with the Chevrolet Suburban. The Grand Cherokee, meanwhile, will get the much-anticipated 3.0-liter diesel engine (we also hope it may wind up in the Wrangler).

The standard Cherokee name is likely coming back as the moniker to replace the Liberty. It could be powered by a new 3.2-liter V6 and underpinned by a Fiat platform that it would share with the Dodge Dart - the first Jeep to do so. This new model would come in early 2013 as a 2014 model.

Jeep's soft-roading crossovers, the Compass and Patriot, are set to receive a new six-speed automatic transmission, replacing the CVT currently under the hood. Only one of these nameplates is likely to survive past 2014.

Jeep has been reached for confirmation or denial of this report, but declined to comment on future product.

Jeep Cherokee and Grand Wagoneer to return originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 11 Sep 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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NHTSA now probing over 5M Jeep models over fuel tanks

Zach Bowman — Thu, 14 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Recalls, Safety, Jeep

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has upgraded an investigation into certain Jeep models to an engineering analysis, according to Bloomberg Businessweek. NHTSA began investigating certain Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee and Liberty models with fuel tanks positioned behind the rear axle in late 2010. Regulators say fires tied to rear-impact crashes may be responsible for 15 deaths and 46 injuries. The results of the engineering analysis will determine whether or not Chrysler is required to issue a recall for the defect. If that happens, the automaker could be looking at recalling 5.1 million vehicles, making the campaign one of the largest in U.S. automotive history.

Chrysler says it's uncertain how many of those models are still on the road today, though it is certain NHTSA will find the SUVs neither defective nor unsafe. Even so, that hasn't stopped some consumer advocacy groups from lambasting the vehicles. The Center for Auto Safety proclaims that the vehicles are a "modern day Pinto for soccer moms." Chrysler has analyzed crash data in Grand Cherokee models and says it has found no greater incident of post-accident fire than in vehicles produced by other manufacturers.

The investigation covers 1993-2004 Grand Cherokee, 1993-2001 Cherokee and 2002-2007 Liberty models.

NHTSA now probing over 5M Jeep models over fuel tanks originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee redefines the Tipping Point

Damon Lavrinc — Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:01:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Jeep, First Drives, Off-Road

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee - click above for high-res image gallery

In the span of three years, Chrysler has been bought and sold more times than Duke Cunningham. Its warped "merger of equals" with Daimler ended in 2007 and the disastrous reign of incompetence extended into its relationship with Cerberus Capital Management - now a "bad word" within the hallowed halls of Chrysler, according to one exec.

After filing for bankruptcy in April of 2009, the reformed Chrysler Group partnered with the Italian automaking juggernauts at Fiat and have since rolled out a five-year business plan that's nothing if not ambitious.

But you didn't come here for an abbreviated history lesson on Chrysler and its failed suitors. You want to find out how your $6.6 billion in federal funding is being spent and if the company's products are finally up to snuff. Well, here's the short version: The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is the first Chrysler product since the 300 that deserves your attention. Follow the jump to find out why.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee redefines the Tipping Point

First Drive: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee redefines the Tipping Point originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Jun 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee pricing, options leaked?

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 09:01:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, SUV, Jeep, Off-Road

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee - Click above for high-res gallery

JeepGarage.org was the first to get spy shots of the 2011 Jeep Cherokee out testing, and now it's apparently come through with exhaustive - perhaps complete - pricing of Jeep's 'I'm bringing sexy back' SUV. According to the documents, the all-new Cherokee will start at $31,480 (including destination charges) for the base Laredo "E" 4x2, climbing to $45,770 for the Overland-trim 4x4. For comparison's sake, the outgoing 2010 model starts at $31,490 including freight, leaving a Hamilton left over to top off the gas tank.

In addition to the new paints and packages, there are 46 new standard and optional features. Some of them are unequivocally true and new, like including two transfer cases, Adaptive Speed Control, a larger fuel tank, dual-pane sunroof, bi-Xenon headlamps, and of course, illuminated cupholders. Others, like the "Best-in-class premium interior" we're going to have to see to validate.

On top of that are eight pre-packaged trim groups: Electronic Infotainment System, Luxury II, Off Road I & II, Popular Equipment Group, Technology Group, Trailer Tow, and Trailer Tow IV. Naturally, they can't be had across the model range, and a couple of them have intriguing requirements, like the Luxury II which can only be fitted to the Limited models that have the black/light frost beige interior. The new model will finally go on sale later this year, and the way it's looking, this Cherokee might just fulfill the promise of its reveal, and its maker.

Gallery: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

[Source: Jeep Garage]

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee pricing, options leaked? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chrysler releases details on Fiat-infused fours, new V6

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Government/Legal, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep

Chrysler's New Four- and Six-Cylinder Engines - Click above for high-res image gallery

If Chrysler is looking to gain any one thing from its new parents at Fiat, it's engine technology. Specifically, the Pentastar will be enlisting its Italian overlords to supply direct injection systems, turbocharging, and Fiat's Multiair variable valve technology, along with new dual-clutch transmissions. Chrysler claims all of this technology is going to boost the overall fuel-efficiency of its vehicles by 25 percent between now and 2014, with over 80 percent of Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles getting new mills in the process.

To that end, Chrysler has finally announced the details of its new powertrain lineup, including two small-displacement four-cylinders and a new V6.

On the four-pot front, Chrysler will begin fitting one of two new 1.4-liter four-cylinder engines on future models: a naturally aspirated version kicking out 100 horsepower (at 6,750 rpm) and 95 pound-feet of torque (at 4,250 rpm), as well as a turbocharged variant that churns out 170 hp (at 6,750 rpm) and 170 lb-ft of twist (at 3,000 rpm). In keeping with its Italian ancestry, Chrysler has dubbed these new mills "Fully Integrated Robotized Engines" and each features Fully Variable-valve Actuation (FVVA) - what we've come to know as Multiair across the Atlantic. Chrysler maintains that both engines offer a 10 percent reduction in emissions and fuel consumption while putting out between 10- to 15-percent more power than its outgoing mills.

A larger displacement, 2.4-liter inline four with Multiair will also come to market, putting out 190 hp (at 6,000 rpm) and 175 lb.-ft of torque (at 4,200 rpm), and along with the new trio of four-cylinders, Chrysler announced specs on the new Pentastar V6. Displacing 3.6 liters and putting out 280 hp (at 6,400 rpm) and 260 lb-ft of torque (at 4,400 rpm), the new six will see similar fuel consumption and emissions reductions and will be fitted to the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee later this year.

In 2010, Chrysler says that it will begin to equip its mid-size vehicles (D-segment) with a new six-speed Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT), that improves fuel economy and can handle up to 260 lb-ft of torque. Expect to see the new tranny making its way into the next-generation Sebring and Chrysler's new crossovers.

And if all that wasn't enough, Chrysler announced its intentions to bring a hybrid Ram 1500 market this year, along with working with the Department of Energy to build a small test fleet of plug-in Rams and minivans, including an electric delivery van for fleet use in 2011 or 2012. All the details are available in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Chrysler's New Four- and Six-Cylinder Engines

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Chrysler releases details on Fiat-infused fours, new V6

Chrysler releases details on Fiat-infused fours, new V6 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: In Da Club Cherokee? Enterprising kids go all Jeep techno

Jonathon Ramsey — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:28:00 EST

Filed under: Etc., Videos, Humor

Jeep Cherokee beatbox - Click above to watch video

If your Jeep Cherokee has been sitting around for a while, it probably makes a few noises. You might not mind, though, if they were noises as well orchestrated as those in the video shown above.

British saxophonist Julian Smith spent a few hours with a Cherokee and an array of friends with rhythm and came up with a number that could be straight out of Stomp. Or an Art of Noise album. Follow the jump to see the vid, and as a bonus, there's another take on car beats with Snob Scrilla and a Toyota Yaris. Thanks for the tips, everyone!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: In Da Club Cherokee? Enterprising kids go all Jeep techno

VIDEO: In Da Club Cherokee? Enterprising kids go all Jeep techno originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Dec 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Spy Shots: 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee grows grander

Noah Joseph — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 10:58:00 EST

Filed under: Spy Photos, SUV, Jeep

Jeep was one of the pioneers in the sport-utility segment before it exploded, yet when the train left the station, the iconic rough-and-tumble brand seemed to have been left behind. But now even while the band plays on the sinking deck of the SS Chrysler, Jeep is trying to catch up and stay afloat with this new offering lining up for the privilege.

According to the latest spy shots and reports, the next Jeep Grand Cherokee looks prone to grow a bit grander. Once considered the sportscar of the SUV segment, the 2010 Grand Cherokee will have a noticeably longer wheelbase, longer rear overhang and likely third-row seating. As the project was likely started while under Daimler's wing, the new Grand Cherokee is anticipated to borrow architecture from Mercedes SUVs like the ML and GL. Although Chrysler apparently killed off the diesel option on the current model for the new year, it may return for the new model, joining the same range of V6 and HEMI V8 engines that may expand to include a HEMI hybrid (Hymi, anyone?), though don't expect a successor to the hot-rod Grand Cherokee SRT8 any time soon. The design, meanwhile, will still include such trademark styling cues as the seven-slat grille, four round headlights and squared-off wheel arches, but expect the overall shape to borrow from the Trailhawk concept from the Detroit Auto Show of two years ago. The new Grand Cherokee may make its debut later this year at either the Chicago or New York show, so stay tuned.

[Source: Car and Driver]

Spy Shots: 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee grows grander originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jan 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Chrysler wants to bring up to 9 new vehicles by 2010

Chris Shunk — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep

There has been a lot of talk recently about whether Chrysler has the right products in the pipeline to compete in this brutally competitive automotive market. Company chairman Jim Press told a group of reporters in California that help is on the way in the form of seven new products coming in calendar year 2010. Chrysler top procurement officer John Campi stated recently that the number could be as high as nine, but we suspect the number disparity could be a result of Campi counting vehicle variations as separate models. Neither Campi or Press gave any details of upcoming models, but analysts think they know which products are coming our way.

Erich Merkle of Crowe Chizek and Co. sees only five vehicles arriving in 2010, including the next generation 300, Durango, Grand Cherokee, Charger, and the Nissan-based Dodge Hornet (or other small car). The Pentastar may also be counting separately hybrid versions of some of the models, but there is also a chance there's an all-new model or two based on collaborations Chrysler has with other automakers that analysts don't know about.

Press and Campi aren't the only executives talking about future product, either. Chrysler top dog Bob Nardelli said last month that a new fuel efficient vehicle may coming as soon as next year as well, and we suspect that model could be the Hornet. Press stressed that it took years for Chrysler to end up where it is today, and that it will take at least three years to pull the privately owned company out of the abyss. It's good to hear Chrysler is still alive an kicking, and we're looking forward to seeing what the Auburn Hills, MI automaker has up its sleeve.

[Source: Free Press]

Chrysler wants to bring up to 9 new vehicles by 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Sep 2008 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Bad brakes cause Jeep to recall 28k vehicles

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:36:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Recalls, Jeep

Those of you rolling in a new 2007 or 2008 Jeep Commander or Grand Cherokee, take note. Chrysler is recalling 28,755 vehicles due to front-brake calipers made out of gray iron, instead of ductile iron, which could cause the clamper to fracture and cease halting forward progress.

The recall affects models built between May 17 and July 13, and we'd expect Chrysler LLC to have letters in the mail as you read this. Currently, there have been no crashes as a result of the problem.

[Source: Detroit News]

Bad brakes cause Jeep to recall 28k vehicles originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Detroit Auto Show: Jeep Trailhawk offers open-air off-roading for four

Eric Bryant — Mon, 08 Jan 2007 18:42:00 EST

Filed under: Detroit Auto Show, SUV, Contests, Green, Jeep

click image above to view all the new live shots in our high-resolution photo gallery

Calling it a crossbreed between the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee, Jeep today took the covers off the Bluetec diesel-powered Trailhawk concept. The Trail Rated off-roader is intended to provide a means for transporting four people off-road, and the three-panel removable glass roof allows the rock-crawling to commence with the open sky above. A chopped roofline and fat fender flares almost give it a low-slung appearance, and the interior shows off some clever touches such as rear-mounted speakers that dismount to provide portable audio.

This concept would probably make more sense if Jeep hadn't just released the Wrangler Unlimited, a user-friendly way (at least when compared to previous Wranglers) to accomplish the same task.

Check out the new updated gallery with all of today's live shots.

For our comprehensive listing of everything from Detroit, click here.

Continue reading Detroit Auto Show: Jeep Trailhawk offers open-air off-roading for four

Detroit Auto Show: Jeep Trailhawk offers open-air off-roading for four originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Jan 2007 18:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Jeep Patriot pricing announced

Erin Mays — Thu, 14 Dec 2006 08:36:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, SUV, Jeep

Sheesh, it's about time... Pricing on the Dodge Caliber-based Jeep Patriot has been announced, with the first Patriots rolling off the line in Belvedere set to arrive in dealerships around January 1. The news, which comes a little later than the fall launch plans Chrysler announced previously, finally satisfies those of us who have been eagerly awaiting the little ute's arrival since its launch at April's New York Auto Show. As promised, the Patriot starts at under 15 grand -- $14,958 including shipping, to be exact. The Patriot Limited 4x4 rings in at $23,530, still at the low end of its class in terms of price.

Sharing a platform with the Caliber and Jeep Compass means Patriot is available with the option of a continuously variable transmission (CVT), as well as DaimlerChrysler's 2.4L World Engine. Die hards need not be disappointed by the non-truck platform, however -- in the upper-level trims, the vehicle still comes "Trail Rated," complete with four-wheel-drive, tow hooks and skid plates, and its design hearkens back to the Cherokees of the 90s. No word on the nature of the marketing push yet, but Jeep should roll that out by the end of first quarter when dealerships are all stocked up.

[Source: Automotive News]

Jeep Patriot pricing announced originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Dec 2006 08:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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RR of the Day: Meet Blowby

John Neff — Tue, 03 Oct 2006 14:57:00 EST

Filed under: SUV, Jeep, RR of the Day

Ever own one of those vehicles that just won't lay down and die? No matter what hell you march it through, the thing keeps on going. Such a vehicle is our RR of the Day today, a 1988 Jeep Cherokee named Blowby. The name comes from the ute's habit of leaking oil out of the top end that sputters right up into its airbox. Cute. Flickr member Tremulane bought the Jeep for $500 and spend an additional $250 fixing her up. Can you tell where the money went? Well, some went to actual repairs, but an investment was also made in some Krylon Olive Drab paint to cover up the rust and some white paint to make a few stars described as "geometric triumphs" by Blowby's owner. To this day Blowby motors on, apparently much to the chagrin of its owner who is waiting for it to die of natural mechanical causes. His story is terrific, follow the jump to read the history of he and Blowby in his own words.

If you'd like to see your own ride featured here, simply upload photos of your ride into our Flickr group. We select one image to highlight each week day, and on the weekend let you vote for the RR of the Week. Detailed instructions can be found after the jump.

Continue reading RR of the Day: Meet Blowby

RR of the Day: Meet Blowby originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Oct 2006 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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