Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Jeep Patriot and Compass being replaced by models from Fiat... Panda, here we come!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/jeep-patriot-and-compass-being-replaced-by-models-from-fiat-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/jeep-patriot-and-compass-being-replaced-by-models-from-fiat-p/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/04/jeep-patriot-and-compass-being-replaced-by-models-from-fiat-p/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2011 Jeep Phoenix Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

It comes as little surprise that Jeep is looking beyond its current Patriot and Compass models, which have, to put it mildly, underperformed in the burgeoning compact CUV market. While the two concepts had lots of potential, the actual production ComPatriot twins were deemed uncompetitive with class leaders right when they were launched.

As such, the two models are both destined to meet their makers after the 2012 model, to be replaced by a single model sourced from Fiat. Can you say Panda (the image above is just a possible rendering, not a production car)? It's also worth noting that the iconic Wranger will get mild makeovers for both the 2010 and 2011 model years along with what seems likely to be a special 70th Anniversary Wranger for 2011.

Across the line, all Jeeps will reportedly come with an optional Trail Rated package, which means no more on-road only models like the Compass are likely to dilute the Jeep brand. That edict includes the new Grand Cherokee, and Jeep says the Trail Rated Grand Cherokee has already successfully tackled the legendary Rubicon Trail and Moab.


Gallery: 2011 Jeep Phoenix

Jeep Patriot and Compass being replaced by models from Fiat... Panda, here we come! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 15:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 jeep panda2011JeepPandacompassfiatfiat pandaFiatPandajeepjeep compassjeep pandajeep patriotjeep phoenixJeepCompassJeepPandaJeepPatriotJeepPhoenixpandapatriotWed, 04 Nov 2009 15:19:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Chrysler rehiring white collar workers to get new product out fast]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-chrysler-rehiring-white-collar-workers-to-get-new-produc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-chrysler-rehiring-white-collar-workers-to-get-new-produc/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/25/report-chrysler-rehiring-white-collar-workers-to-get-new-produc/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

The new product picture at Chrysler appears to be mighty thin, as the only new products scheduled to come out of the Pentastar over the next year are redesigns of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Ram Heavy Duty and the Chrysler 300. As you may recall, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne recently said that he was surprised to see how little has been done in the way of product development over the past two years, which is hardly a ringing endorsement from the new boss.

Marchionnne and his management team are now putting the final touches on a new plan to reverse Chrysler's fortunes, and the key to the company's renaissance will be new product. The Detroit Free Press is reporting that Marchionne's plan includes quick turnarounds on the refreshing of the Town & Country and Grand Caravan minivans, the Dodge Caliber, as well as the Jeep Patriot and Compass. According to company sources, the PT Cruiser is also scheduled to be redesigned in a compressed time frame, with the expectation of a mid-2011 arrival.

To execute the aggressive plan, Marchionne is reportedly calling for design and engineering workers to work overtime, and some workers who took packages or were separated involuntarily will be hired back on a contract basis. Beyond the refreshes already mentioned, Fiat has already committed to build the hot little 500 in Mexico by mid-2011, and the Pentastar will also complete the launch of its Phoenix V6 engine program.

Marchionne is scheduled to deliver his latest proposal to overhaul Chrysler to the Obama Administration's Auto Task Force by next Wednesday. It looks like there is finally going to be some serious action in Auburn Hills, MI, and we're hoping that Fiat and Chrysler can buy two years' time to bring the greatly-needed product to fruition.


Gallery: 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee


[Source: Detroit Free Press]

REPORT: Chrysler rehiring white collar workers to get new product out fast originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Sep 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodgedodge caliberDodgeCaliberfiatgrand caravanGrandCaravanjeepjeep patriotJeepPatriotmarchionnept cruiserPtCruisertown CountryTownCountryFri, 25 Sep 2009 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Future Chrysler, Alfa Romeo and Fiat product plans revealed?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/future-chrysler-alfa-romeo-and-fiat-product-plans-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/future-chrysler-alfa-romeo-and-fiat-product-plans-revealed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/future-chrysler-alfa-romeo-and-fiat-product-plans-revealed/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,


Alfa Romeo Kamal concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to automotive consulting firm IHS Global Insight, the Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep lineups are going to look drastically different over the next few years under Fiat control. No surprises there, but the report goes on the forecast which current Chrysler vehicles will be dropped and which ones will be transferred to new platforms. We've already heard that the next Alfa Romeo 169 sedan will be built atop Chrysler's LX platform in Ontario, Canada and that the Fiat 500 will be built ASAP in Toluca, Mexico, but that's only the beginning.

If IHS is right, joining the 500 in Toluca will be the Jeep Panda, which, as you may have guessed, will be a version of the Fiat Panda wearing Jeep's trademark seven-slot grille. Furthermore, Alfa Romeo may get two new SUVs that would be built in Jeep factories in Jefferson, Michigan and Toledo, Ohio - one midsize 'ute called the GTX that's based on the WL platform that underpins the Jeep Grand Cherokee and a smaller one built on Fiat's C-EVO platform, which will also underpin the next Jeep Liberty. That leaves the unloved Jeep Compass and its somewhat more likable brother, the Patriot, to die slow and inglorious death.

Fiat's C-EVO platform will also spawn the next-gen Dodge Journey, Chrysler Sebring (and presumably the Dodge Avenger if it survives past its current form), and Dodge Caliber. Moving downward in size a notch will (finally) be the Dodge Hornet, which will forgo Bad Chrysler's old deal with Nissan in order to share its Fiat 199 platform with the Alfa Romeo MiTo, both of which will be assembled in Belvidere, Illinois sometime in 2011. Thanks for the tip, Dad!


Gallery: Alfa Romeo Kamal concept


[Source: Global Insight]

Future Chrysler, Alfa Romeo and Fiat product plans revealed? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alfa romeoalfa romeo gtxalfa romeo kamalalfa romeo mitoalfa romeo suvalfa romeo suv crossoverAlfaRomeoAlfaRomeoGtxAlfaRomeoKamalAlfaRomeoMitoAlfaRomeoSuvAlfaRomeoSuvCrossoverbelividere assmebly plantBelividereAssmeblyPlantdodge hornetDodgeHornetglobal insightGlobalInsightihs global insightIhsGlobalInsightjeepjeep compassjeep libertyjeep pandajeep patriotJeepCompassJeepLibertyJeepPandaJeepPatriottoledotoledo jeeptoledo jeep plantToledoJeepToledoJeepPlanttolucatoluca mexicotoluca plantTolucaMexicoTolucaPlantFri, 19 Jun 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeep adds Rocky Mountain Edition models to Patriot, Liberty and Grand Cherokee]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/jeep-adds-rocky-mountain-edition-models-to-patriot-liberty-and/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/jeep-adds-rocky-mountain-edition-models-to-patriot-liberty-and/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/16/jeep-adds-rocky-mountain-edition-models-to-patriot-liberty-and/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to enlarge

In an effort to revive lagging sales, automakers often create new packages that bundle desirable features into one new trim level at a slightly reduced cost. Such is the case with the new Rocky Mountain Editions of the Jeep Patriot, Liberty and Grand Cherokee for 2009. Included in the package are a sunroof, an uplevel audio package that includes uConnect and SIRIUS satellite radio, alloy wheels and unique paint colors with special badges. As you would expect from Jeep, four-wheel drive is available on all of these models.

Checking the Rocky Mountain Edition box on the vehicle order form will add a total of $1,595 to the vehicle's bottom line. If added separately, the components that make up the package would cost $2,300, which makes for a pretty good deal (though not quite as good as the "approximately $1,000" in savings that Chrysler is touting). Read the full press release after the break.

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Jeep adds Rocky Mountain Edition models to Patriot, Liberty and Grand Cherokee

Jeep adds Rocky Mountain Edition models to Patriot, Liberty and Grand Cherokee originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for a high-res gallery of the Jeep Patriot EV

So sayeth Chrysler and ENVI, Chrysler's electric vehicle partner, "the Jeep Patriot EV expands our portfolio of ENVI electric-drive vehicles and is just one more example of what is possible through the technology Chrysler is developing." With the same heart as the genuinely cool Chrysler 200C Concept, the capable and flexible range-extended engine gives the Patriot a 40-mile all electric range, a 400-mile total range, and an 8-second 0-to-60 jaunt.

The only question we have about this car is the same single question we have about all of the Chrysler-ENVI vehicles: um, when are we gonna see it? We're now six months into Chrysler's electric adventure, and all we have is a hoped-for date for the Circuit EV (showroom decoration in 2010). The Jeep and Caravan extended-range vehicles can't take that long, can they? Chrysler, we know you can do it. Give them to us. Soon. While the rest of you wait, you can read the press release after the jump and check out the gallery of high-res live photos below.

Gallery: 2009 Detroit: Jeep Patriot EV


Gallery: Dodge Patriot EV

Continue reading Detroit 2009: Jeep Patriot Extended-Range Vehicle appears in D-town [w/VIDEO]

Detroit 2009: Jeep Patriot Extended-Range Vehicle appears in D-town [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler llcChryslerLlcconcept carConceptCarcuvdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowhybridjeepjeep patriotjeep patriot evJeepPatriotJeepPatriotEvnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009patriotpatriot evPatriotEvSun, 11 Jan 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Paris Preview: MOPAR to introduce Jeep Patriot Back Country concept]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/25/paris-preview-mopar-to-introduce-jeep-patriot-back-country-conc/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/25/paris-preview-mopar-to-introduce-jeep-patriot-back-country-conc/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/09/25/paris-preview-mopar-to-introduce-jeep-patriot-back-country-conc/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


Click above for high-res shots of the Jeep Patriot Back Country Concept

Chrysler's in-house performance tuning arm, MOPAR, will be showing off a mildly customized version of the Jeep Patriot called the Back Country at next month's Paris Motor Show. The run-of-the-mill Patriot and Compass models, which share a platform with the Dodge Caliber, have had their interiors redone a bit for the new '09 model year and the small improvements appear to make a major difference, at least in appearance. We'll reserve final judgement until we get inside one for ourselves. At the upcoming Paris Motor Show, attendees will see a few mods to the new model, including an Optic Green paint color, blacked-out B-pillars, and a new "platinum chrome" light bar on the outside. MOPAR makes good use of its own accessories catalog with a cargo basket on the roof that sports extra off-road lights, splash gaurds and some 18-inch five-spoke alloys. Joining the refreshed interior are satin chrome details and a scuba-like fabric covering parts of the seats. This concept above goes to show that the Patriot is a decent looker and just a few minor tweaks away from being a real Jeep. Now, if they'd just take care of that Compass...

Gallery: Jeep Patriot Back Country


[Source: Carscoop]

Paris Preview: MOPAR to introduce Jeep Patriot Back Country concept originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeep patriotjeep patriot back countryjeep patriot interiorjeep patriot new interiorJeepPatriotJeepPatriotBackCountryJeepPatriotInteriorJeepPatriotNewInteriorparis 2008paris motor showparis motor show 2008Paris2008ParisMotorShowParisMotorShow2008Thu, 25 Sep 2008 12:27:00 EST<![CDATA[2009 Jeep Patriot with new interior already on dealer lots]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/11/2009-jeep-patriot-new-interior-and-all-already-on-dealer-lots/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/11/2009-jeep-patriot-new-interior-and-all-already-on-dealer-lots/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/11/2009-jeep-patriot-new-interior-and-all-already-on-dealer-lots/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to view a gallery of the Patriot's new accoutrements

All you used to need to know about the Jeep Patriot is that it looks Jeepy; drives super-solidly (even when making forays above 80 mph); and comes with a nasty interior that will shred your knuckles on that excess flash all over every piece (Ed. note: flash is what's left over from injection molding where the two halves of the mold come together). Take that painful and bloody criticism, print it out on heavy paper, and then savor the sound as you crumple it up; our bloviating has been rendered irrelevant by Chrysler delivering on its promise to fix the Patriot's insides.

Our final judgement will come down after we get a chance to sample one of the new interiors in person, but these pics of the new interior we picked up on last week are inside vehicles that have already made their way to some Jeep dealers' lots. There's a new, smoother dashboard; SRT-reminiscent seats; and door panels that look more well thought out (nevermind that manual window crank). It's nice to see that Chrysler's owner-pooch has put its money where its three mouths are and delivered a more attractive interior that appears higher quality. Click the gallery below to see more angles of the Patriot's new flash-less interior. Thanks for the tip, Jeffrey!

Gallery: New Jeep Patriot interior


[Source: Cars.com]

2009 Jeep Patriot with new interior already on dealer lots originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Aug 2008 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeep interiorjeep new interiorjeep patriotjeep patriot interiorjeep patriot interior cars.comjeep patriot new interiorJeepInteriorJeepNewInteriorJeepPatriotJeepPatriotInteriorJeepPatriotInteriorCars.comJeepPatriotNewInteriorMon, 11 Aug 2008 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[First images of new Compass, Patriot interiors surface]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/01/first-images-of-new-compass-patriot-interiors-surface/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/01/first-images-of-new-compass-patriot-interiors-surface/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/01/first-images-of-new-compass-patriot-interiors-surface/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above to enlarge the 2009 Jeep Compass and Patriot interior

Chrysler has taken a beating from both consumers and the media regarding the poor quality and materials inside the majority of its products, particularly the Jeep Patriot and Compass. Recognizing the problem, Chrysler made the announcement earlier this year that it would be seriously revamping both model's interiors in short order, and judging by these leaked images from the 2009 Mopar Accessory brochure, they weren't lying.

Looking at the pictures from the brochure, the model with the gray and black interior is the refreshed version, while the beige picture (with heated seats!) seems to be the new '09 dash with the pre-2009 door panels. The dash is all new and looks to be a step-up, while the leather seats have been revised and look more upscale than before. Perhaps the greatest difference will be the door panels, which featured hard plastics, chintzy buttons and switches that were directly in the way of where your arm should go. The new 2009 interior puts these items in recesses, which was sorely needed. We'll reserve final judgment until we get to see and feel the updates in person. Thanks for the tip, TJ!

Gallery: 2009 Jeep Compass and Patriot interiors


[Source: Allpar Forums]

First images of new Compass, Patriot interiors surface originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Aug 2008 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 jeep compass2009 jeep patriot2009JeepCompass2009JeepPatriotjeepjeep compassjeep compass interiorjeep patriotjeep patriot interiorJeepCompassJeepCompassInteriorJeepPatriotJeepPatriotInteriorFri, 01 Aug 2008 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Press: Chrysler to cut its SUV offerings in half]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/press-chrysler-to-cut-its-suv-offerings-in-half/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/press-chrysler-to-cut-its-suv-offerings-in-half/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/03/24/press-chrysler-to-cut-its-suv-offerings-in-half/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

It's no secret that Chrysler has some overlapping models in its lineup. Case(s)-in-point: it's hard to make a rational argument that Jeep should be offering both the Compass and Patriot (not to mention Dodge selling the Patriot's platform sibling, the Caliber) or the Grand Cherokee and the Commander. The Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango barely pretend to be different vehicles and there's no reason to sell both the Jeep Liberty and Dodge Nitro when they're basically the same machine. This revelation is as obvious to Chrysler's new management as it is to us, and Chrysler President Jim Press, says as much. "We're going to stop overlapping, we're going to bring everything under one roof. By doing that we will have more products in the markets we are not covering."

Also marked as redundant by Press are the Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Caravan minivans, but as easy as it may be to pinpoint overlapping models, fixing that problem may prove more difficult. Dealers will need to begin offering the whole Chrysler line of vehicles if this strategy of "bringing everything under one roof" is to succeed. Expect to see drastic changes taking place in the next four to five years.

[Source: Bloomberg]

Press: Chrysler to cut its SUV offerings in half originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Mar 2008 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerchrysler aspenchrysler minivanchrysler minivanschrysler-aspenchrysler-minivanchrysler-minivansChryslerAspenChryslerMinivanChryslerMinivanscompasscompatriotdodge durangododge-durangoDodgeDurangojeep commanderjeep compassjeep patriotjeep-compassjeep-patriotJeepCommanderJeepCompassJeepPatriotminivanpatriotMon, 24 Mar 2008 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler to resume production at Illinois plant]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/16/chrylser-to-resume-production-at-illinois-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/16/chrylser-to-resume-production-at-illinois-plant/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/02/16/chrylser-to-resume-production-at-illinois-plant/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



After a five-day shutdown due to a mechanical glitch at Chrysler's Belvidere stamping plant, the facility will again be able to resume building the Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass, and Jeep Patriot. In the short term, Chrysler will keep the assembly facility running smoothly by outsourcing stamping to other nearby plants. The shutdown came only weeks before the Belvidere plant permanently drops one shift, which will result in the indefinite layoff of 1,000 workers. With a tough economy in which automakers are struggling to sell units, it's unlikely many people will have difficulty finding a Caliber, Compass, or Patriot as a result of the temporary shutdown.

[Source: Auto News (subs. req'd)]

Chrysler to resume production at Illinois plant originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 16 Feb 2008 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Belividere assmebly plantBelividereAssmeblyPlantChryslerCompassDodge CaliberDodgeCaliberJeep PatriotJeepPatriotSat, 16 Feb 2008 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler to idle ComPatriot, Caliber plant for two weeks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/05/chrysler-to-idle-compatriot-caliber-plant-for-two-weeks/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/05/chrysler-to-idle-compatriot-caliber-plant-for-two-weeks/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/05/chrysler-to-idle-compatriot-caliber-plant-for-two-weeks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Having learned from the sales bank debacle of the past, Chrysler is now throttling back production to draw down inventory levels. Sales of the PM/MK platform cars - Dodge Caliber and Jeep ComPatriot twins - are down roughly 23 percent compared to last year. Part of that is due to a move away from fleet sales, but whatever the cause, the 3,400 workers at the Belvidere assembly plant will get a two week vacation starting Monday. It's a great time of year to take a trip, enjoy some of the last warm days before winter tightens its grip, or just get out and rake the yard. By the time the line starts back up again, the backlog of unsold vehicles will be reduced, and the looming catastrophe of UAW contract talks will be looming.

[Source: Auto News - sub req.]

Chrysler to idle ComPatriot, Caliber plant for two weeks originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Oct 2007 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caliberChryslercompassdodgedodge caliberDodgeCaliberjeepjeep compassjeep patriotJeepCompassJeepPatriotmanufacturingpatriotsalesFri, 05 Oct 2007 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeep helping Chrysler retain market share]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/14/jeep-helping-chrysler-retain-market-share/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/14/jeep-helping-chrysler-retain-market-share/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/14/jeep-helping-chrysler-retain-market-share/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, Compass, and Patriot are helping Chrysler defend its market share in a declining sales environment. Between these new models and incentives on Dodge and Chrysler vehicles, Chrysler has managed to stay 0.1% ahead of the market's year-on-year drop in sales. The Wrangler Unlimited is proving a noteworthy boon, helping lift Wrangler sales by 71% year-over-year. Steve Landry, Chrysler's EVP of North American sales said, "The four-door has really created a halo effect for the Jeep brand, bringing people into the Jeep showrooms and it has improved our two-door sales."

Although Chrysler-brand vehicles lead the way among the Big Three in incentives, Jeep has placed little reliance on them. The numbers mean that Chrysler's market share has actually improved a tiny bit, from 12.85% to 12.86% in the US. It's a minuscule improvement to be sure, but for a company that has been through the wringer over the past few months (years, some would say), it's still a great statement.

[Source: Freep]

Jeep helping Chrysler retain market share originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 Sep 2007 15:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Smash-and-grab robberies usually involve thugs breaking a car window, grabbing some desirable object left in plain sight (such as a purse or an iPod), and making tracks. A team of thieves in Shippensburg, PA, however, has clearly outgrown that JV stuff and moved up to the Varsity level by applying the tried-and-true smash-and-grab techniques to Naugle Motors, a local Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep dealer.

That's where they apparently broke into an '08 Jeep Patriot, got it started, and then drove it through the showroom door to get what they really wanted: the Sublime Green Charger Daytona sitting on the floor. (They couldn't have smashed a Compass instead? What gives?) Once in the Dodge, the perpetrators got the hell outta Dodge, so to speak. (BaDumBum -Ed.) Authorities have not recovered the car, but if it isn't in pieces or on some container ship headed overseas, we have a hunch that it'll get found.

After all, a Daytona with the Sublime finish is basically visible from outer space. If it's local, someone's gonna see it.

[Source: The Sentinel]

Sublime Smash 'n Grab originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 24 May 2007 09:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>charger daytonaChargerDaytonajeep patriotJeepPatriotThu, 24 May 2007 09:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeep Patriot promotion kicks off with "Wolf" commercial]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/13/jeep-patriot-promotion-kicks-off-with-wolf-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/13/jeep-patriot-promotion-kicks-off-with-wolf-commercial/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/13/jeep-patriot-promotion-kicks-off-with-wolf-commercial/#commentsFiled under: , ,



As part of its novel marketing campaign for the new Patriot, Jeep has developed an interactive comic book game of sorts that allows users to follow the adventures of three different characters who use a Jeep Patriot to complete their journeys. It's called the Patriot Adventure, naturally. As a companion to that online effort, the TV commercials will mimic the look and feel of that effort and use the same cast in vignettes from the game. The first TV spot is set to debut during the NCAA tourney on March 15, but the video is already on YouTube and available after the jump. Called "Wolf," it is set at a riverside campground where we see a couple of pranksters stealing a canoe off the roof of a Patriot while the owner sleeps in her tent.

Not one to take this lying down, she fires up her trusty Jeep Patriot and gets ahead of them by driving through rugged terrain, which the Patriot of course handles effortlessly (It's Trail-Rated, you know). But how exactly will she manage to stop them when they are in the water and she is on terra firma? And why is it called "Wolf?" Click through to find out. While the commercial lacks any attempts at suicide, we're eager to see what action group steps forward to nail DCX with accusations of animal endangerment on behalf of a supposedly traumatized wolf.

[Source: Jeep]

Continue reading Jeep Patriot promotion kicks off with "Wolf" commercial

Jeep Patriot promotion kicks off with "Wolf" commercial originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Mar 2007 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Jeep PatriotJeepPatriotPatriot AdventurePatriotAdventurethe way-beyond trailTheWay-beyondTrailTue, 13 Mar 2007 17:57:00 EST<![CDATA[More from the Chrysler camp: Jeep Patriot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/29/more-from-the-chrysler-camp-jeep-patriot/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/29/more-from-the-chrysler-camp-jeep-patriot/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/29/more-from-the-chrysler-camp-jeep-patriot/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the pic for a hi res image

Yes, even more stuff comes down the pike from the guys and gals of DaimlerChrysler. This time, it's in the form of the Jeep Patriot, as envisioned by the good folks at the Chrysler Design Center. As of yet, it's unnamed, so we'll ask for suggestions in 'comments.'

In the meantime, we'll call it the Partly Pragmatic Patriot and give you the quick and dirty on what's been done. The modifications made were centered on making this mild-mannered people mover into a true off-roader. The majority of the focus came by way of jacking up the suspension two-and-a-half inches and throwing on 16" wheels with BFG Mud Terrain tires. That combination of tire and custom-suspension gives the PPP over 11-inches of ground clearance, which will make it easier to avoid smashing that new, metal front-bumper into large, immovable objects.

Beyond that, the team threw on a new roof rack and lighting system, and did their best to make the PPP as purposeful as it looks.

(Full press excerpt after the jump.)

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Continue reading More from the Chrysler camp: Jeep Patriot

More from the Chrysler camp: Jeep Patriot originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Oct 2006 10:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeep patriotJeepPatriotsemaSun, 29 Oct 2006 10:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeep Compass comes in below projections]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/10/jeep-compass-comes-in-below-projections/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/10/jeep-compass-comes-in-below-projections/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/10/jeep-compass-comes-in-below-projections/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Chrysler Group has gotten tons of PR mileage out of the popularity of the Dodge Caliber, to the point where dealers haven't been able to keep them in stock and consumers have to beg for a test drive (new Calibers net more profit than demos, after all). Unfortunately for the automaker, the Caliber's stablemate, the Jeep Compass, isn't enjoying the same successes. As the first car-based Jeep to hit the streets, the Caliber's sales have been lower than projected despite the vehicle's distinctive styling and sharp interior. The problem seems to be the 2006 models glutting dealer lots, giving potential Compass buyers food for thought -- a 2007 Compass doesn't represent the same kind of deal as, say, a loaded up 2006 Jeep Liberty.

Automotive News reports that the transaction price of the Dodge Caliber has risen since its introduction, beginning at $17,059 in March and then up to $18,276 by the end of September, while the Compass' price has lowered from $22,467 at launch to $21,534.

Jeep has quite a predicament on its hands if the Liberty and even Grand Cherokee are cannibalizing Compass sales -- evidently yet another drawback to Chrysler's resistance to cutting production when showrooms first started clogging up. We'll see how the situation evolves when the Patriot comes out.

[Source: Automotive News via AutoWeek]

Jeep Compass comes in below projections originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Oct 2006 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car buyingCarBuyingdodge caliberDodgeCaliberjeep compassjeep patriotJeepCompassJeepPatriotnew carNewCarvehicle salesVehicleSalesTue, 10 Oct 2006 07:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Caliber selling out abroad]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/07/caliber-selling-out-abroad/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/07/caliber-selling-out-abroad/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/09/07/caliber-selling-out-abroad/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Not only is the Caliber tough to find on dealer lots in the United States, but it's also selling out in Europe as well. According to AutoWeek, Dodge woefully underestimated European demand for its hatchback replacement for the Neon, causing dealers in Europe to put people on a waiting list in excess of six months.

Many questioned whether Dodge's very American design could do well in Western Europe, but that question is now answered, with 3,238 Calibers were sold so far this year. Dodge sold just 311 vehicles in western Europe all of last year, but announced plans earlier this year to push Dodge as an international brand for the automaker.

[Source: AutoWeek]

Caliber selling out abroad originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Sep 2006 17:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CVTdodge caliberDodgeCaliberjeep compassjeep patriotJeepCompassJeepPatriotwestern EuropeWesternEuropeThu, 07 Sep 2006 17:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeep Compass gets dissed by consumer panel]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/detroit-news-automotive-consumer-panel-disses-the-compass/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/detroit-news-automotive-consumer-panel-disses-the-compass/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/08/03/detroit-news-automotive-consumer-panel-disses-the-compass/#commentsFiled under: ,

The Jeep Compass might be turning the heads of some consumers looking to the trail-rated brand for something new, but the ten members of the Detroit News Automotive Consumer Panel weren't impressed. While all ten said they would recommend the vehicle's sibling -- the Dodge Caliber -- to their friends, and six said they'd consider buying a Caliber themselves, just two of the ten would recommend the Compass to family or friends and none would consider buying one themselves. Calling the vehicle "ugly" and identifying it as something that is completely at odds with the Jeep brand, the panelists overwhelmingly gave the car two thumbs down after driving a few around town during the month of July.

Said one panelist, "Jeep, to me, no longer can justify having that 'rugged' reputation attached to its brand name. A Jeep is supposed to bellow 'run me into the ground.' Instead, this Jeep says, 'You guys want to go to the mall?'"

Let's hope, for Chrylser's sake, that the new Compass will overcome the opinions of these ten.

[Source: Detroit News]

Jeep Compass gets dissed by consumer panel originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Aug 2006 12:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroit newsDetroitNewsdodge caliberDodgeCaliberjeep compassjeep patriotJeepCompassJeepPatriotThu, 03 Aug 2006 12:01:00 EST<![CDATA[First Jeep Compass rolls off the line]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/31/first-jeep-compass-rolls-off-the-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/31/first-jeep-compass-rolls-off-the-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/31/first-jeep-compass-rolls-off-the-line/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



The Dodge Caliber's Jeep sibling, the Compass, started production at the Chrysler Group's plant in Belvidere, Ill., where the automaker will also start making the Jeep Patriot this fall. Chrysler's flexible manufacturing processes are said to be behind the plant's versatility and efficiency, which makes for the opportunity to build the three different models all on the same production line.

The Compass, which is Jeep's first foray into the world of soft SUVs and crossover vehicles, will start at an MSRP of  $15,985, including a $560 destination charge. The vehicle will go on sale this summer.

[Source: Chrysler]

Related posts:
Chrysler plant adding another 1,000 jobs
Chrysler calls 1,000 employees back to work at Belvidere
First production Dodge Caliber rolls off the line

First Jeep Compass rolls off the line originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 May 2006 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerdodge caliberDodgeCaliberflexible manufacturingFlexibleManufacturingjeepjeep compassjeep patriotJeepCompassJeepPatriotkaizenlean manufacturingLeanManufacturingWed, 31 May 2006 17:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Toyota surpasses Chrysler's numbers... again]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/03/toyota-surpasses-chryslers-numbers-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/03/toyota-surpasses-chryslers-numbers-again/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/05/03/toyota-surpasses-chryslers-numbers-again/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Toyota beat Chrysler's sales totals 219,965 to 190,095 in April, part of a larger trend that showed a bad month for domestics and a good month for Toyota. It's not the first time it has happened, but it might just give Toyota the boost it needs to surpass Chrylser's year-end sales totals. However, Chrysler expects strong sales of the Caliber and other forthcoming vehicles to edge the littlest member of the Big Three ahead of Toyota by year-end.

[Source: TheCarConnection.com; DaimlerChrysler]

Toyota surpasses Chrysler's numbers... again originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 May 2006 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>car salesCarSaleschryslerdodge caliberDodgeCaliberjeepjeep compassjeep patriotJeepCompassJeepPatriottoyotaWed, 03 May 2006 15:29:00 EST