Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[NHTSA boss Strickland weighs in on Jeep recall fracas]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/15/nhtsa-boss-strickland-weighs-in-on-jeep-recall-fracas/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/15/nhtsa-boss-strickland-weighs-in-on-jeep-recall-fracas/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/15/nhtsa-boss-strickland-weighs-in-on-jeep-recall-fracas/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

David Strickland

Adding yet another chapter to the ongoing Jeep recall story, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) head David Strickland has gone on record to defend the government's request that Chrysler recall 2.7 million out-of-production Jeep Grand Cherokee and Jeep Liberty vehicles after the agency investigated fiery rear-end collisions that have reportedly killed at least 51 people over the years. In statements made to The Detroit News, Strickland said, "We felt very strongly that the process that we undertook and the findings that we made and ... we made the decision to issue a recall request. We do not take that very lightly." The top US auto safety regulator stopped short of telling owners to park their cars until the automaker takes action. "They can make their own risk assessment and their own choices," he said.

Chrysler does not intend to recall the models, insisting the "vehicles met and exceeded all applicable requirements of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, including FMVSS 301, pertaining to fuel-system integrity" when they were manufactured and sold. "The company does not agree with NHTSA's conclusions and does not intend to recall the vehicles cited in the investigation. The subject vehicles are safe and are not defective," Chrysler announced last week in a statement. "We believe NHTSA's initial conclusions are based on an incomplete analysis of the underlying data, and we are committed to continue working with the agency to resolve this disagreement."

Legally, Chrysler has until June 18 to formally respond to NHTSA's request. If the automaker does not take action, NHTSA is expected to issue a formal finding and seek a recall.

NHTSA boss Strickland weighs in on Jeep recall fracas originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 15 Jun 2013 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel tank recalljeepjeep firesjeep grand cherokeejeep libertyjeep recallnhtsaSat, 15 Jun 2013 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20622369/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/15/nhtsa-boss-strickland-weighs-in-on-jeep-recall-fracas/20622369/article-detail.xml 20622369 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/david-strickland_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/david-strickland.jpg <![CDATA[Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #336 LIVE!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-336-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-336-live/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-336-live/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

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We're set to record Autoblog Podcast #336 tonight, and 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.

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Submit your questions for Autoblog Podcast #336 LIVE! originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 17:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 toyota corollaappleapple iosapple ios for carsautoblog podcast topicsios for carsjeepjeep fuel tankjeep grand cherokeejeep libertyjeep nhtsanhtsapodcastpodcast topicstoyotaMon, 10 Jun 2013 17:49:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20607131/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/10/submit-your-questions-for-autoblog-podcast-336-live/20607131/article-detail.xml 20607131 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/podcastlivev2stamp-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/podcastlivev2stamp-628.jpg <![CDATA[Bob Lutz, UAW rep commend Chrysler for not bowing to NHTSA recall pressure [w/poll]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/bob-lutz-uaw-rep-commend-chrysler-for-not-bowing-to-nhtsa-recal/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/bob-lutz-uaw-rep-commend-chrysler-for-not-bowing-to-nhtsa-recal/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/10/bob-lutz-uaw-rep-commend-chrysler-for-not-bowing-to-nhtsa-recal/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Auto exec Bob Lutz interviewed by reporters

Bob Lutz, the well-known executive with a range of automakers including both General Motors and Chrysler, says he supports Chrysler for not caving under federal pressure to issue a recall on 2.7 million Jeep vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is arguing that the plastic fuel tanks positioned behind the axles of certain 1993-2004 Grand Cherokee models and 2002-2007 Liberty models may become punctured in a collision and potentially catch fire, so it has called upon Chrysler to recall the vehicles. 15 deaths and 46 injuries have been attributed to the issue. For its part, Chrysler has maintained that its models "met and exceeded" all safety applicable mandates when they were manufactured, and furthermore, they argue that the government agency's own data proves that the vehicles are no more dangerous than similar SUVs produced by other automakers at the time. As a result, it is taking the unusual step of refusing to recall the vehicles.

According to The Detroit News, Lutz says Chrysler is right to push back when the government is out of line. Lutz also said that he wished he could have done the same when NHTSA urged Chrysler to issue a recall on certain minivans back when he was with the automaker 25 years ago.

Meanwhile, United Auto Workers Vice President General Holiefield also defended Chrysler by saying, "Our legendary Jeeps are crafted with pride by our dedicated UAW American workforce who work tirelessly to ensure the utmost quality of each Jeep that is produced for customers."

Who do you think is in the right, Chrysler or NHTSA? Vote in our poll below, then have your say in Comments.

View Poll

Bob Lutz, UAW rep commend Chrysler for not bowing to NHTSA recall pressure [w/poll] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 10 Jun 2013 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bob lutzchryslerjeep grand cherokeejeep libertyjeep recallnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsauawunited auto workersMon, 10 Jun 2013 15:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20605515/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/10/bob-lutz-uaw-rep-commend-chrysler-for-not-bowing-to-nhtsa-recal/20605515/article-detail.xml 20605515 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/bob-lutz-interview_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/bob-lutz-interview.jpg <![CDATA[Federal investigations about safety of rear-mounted gas tanks is nothing new]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/09/federal-investigations-about-safety-of-rear-mounted-gas-tanks-is/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/09/federal-investigations-about-safety-of-rear-mounted-gas-tanks-is/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/09/federal-investigations-about-safety-of-rear-mounted-gas-tanks-is/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

1993 Jeep Grand Cherokee wireframe drawing

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Chrysler are currently making waves in our daily news feeds due to a disagreement over the safety of a few million Jeep Liberty and Grand Cherokee models. Specifically, NHTSA has asked Chrysler to recall the SUVs because of the location of their fuel tanks, but you may be interested to know that requests such as this are nothing new.

Besides the two Jeep models, NHTSA has launched investigations over the years in such models as the Ford Crown Victoria (and its police-car counterpart), GM pickups built between 1972 and 1987, and rather famously the Ford Pinto.

Understanding how automakers and NHTSA have dealt with fuel-tank-safety concerns in the past may offer a better understanding of how Chrysler and the government agency will settle their current dispute. Check out the complete article from The Detroit News here.

Federal investigations about safety of rear-mounted gas tanks is nothing new originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 09 Jun 2013 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fuel tankgas tank recalljeepjeep gas tankjeep grand cherokeejeep libertynhtsarecallSun, 09 Jun 2013 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20602454/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/09/federal-investigations-about-safety-of-rear-mounted-gas-tanks-is/20602454/article-detail.xml 20602454 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/jeep-grand-cherokee-drawing_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/jeep-grand-cherokee-drawing.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler taking big risk snubbing NHTSA]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/chrysler-taking-big-risk-snubbing-nhtsa/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/chrysler-taking-big-risk-snubbing-nhtsa/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/06/05/chrysler-taking-big-risk-snubbing-nhtsa/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Maker Insists Feds Overstate Risk Of Fires With Grand Cherokee, Liberty Models

Jeep logo

It's not often that recall stories make it above the fold, in that old newspaper parlance, but when one shows up as the lead story on the network evening news programs, you know it's something big.

And so it is with Chrysler snubbing its nose at a request by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to recall 2.7 million Jeeps the feds insist are at risk of potentially catastrophic fuel tank fires in a rear-end collision.

For its part, the automaker insists that "the vehicles are safe and not defective," adding that "incidents... occur less than once for every million years of vehicle operations." And it insists it has the data to back that up.

But sometimes you can't win for losing and even if Chrysler is right, there is a serious chance that it may nonetheless lose the battle in the public eye, especially if it is seen as putting profits before safety.

Paul EisensteinPaul A. Eisenstein is Publisher of TheDetroitBureau.com and a 30-year veteran of the automotive beat. His editorials bring his unique perspective and deep understanding of the auto world to Autoblog readers on a regular basis. This story was reprinted with permission from the author and TheDetroitBureau.com.

Continue reading Chrysler taking big risk snubbing NHTSA

Chrysler taking big risk snubbing NHTSA originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Jun 2013 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslerfeaturedjeepjeep grand cherokeejeep libertynational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsapaul eisensteinWed, 05 Jun 2013 14:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20600422/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/06/05/chrysler-taking-big-risk-snubbing-nhtsa/20600422/article-detail.xml 20600422 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/34-2012-jeep-wrangler-sport-review_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/06/34-2012-jeep-wrangler-sport-review.jpg <![CDATA[Watch this 650-hp Hennessey Jeep Grand Cherokee go from 0-60 in 3.9 seconds]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/watch-this-650-hp-hennessey-jeep-grand-cherokee-go-from-0-60-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/watch-this-650-hp-hennessey-jeep-grand-cherokee-go-from-0-60-in/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/14/watch-this-650-hp-hennessey-jeep-grand-cherokee-go-from-0-60-in/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

650-hp Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 from Hennessey ready to go drag racing - video screencap

Hennessey Performance Engineering has created an HPE650 package for the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT fitted with the 6.4-liter Hemi engine. When it leaves the showroom floor it has 470 horsepower and gets from 0-60 miles per hour in 4.8 seconds. When it leaves Hennessey's garage floor after the upgrade it has 650 horsepower - 530 hp at the wheels, according to Hennessey - and gets to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds on its way to running the quarter-mile in 12.6 seconds.

There's more than just a Roots-type supercharger bolt-on, with ported cylinder heads and high-flow headers among the many changes made to the engine. You can watch this pre-2014 facelift silver model prove its spec sheet on the drag strip in the video below.

Continue reading Watch this 650-hp Hennessey Jeep Grand Cherokee go from 0-60 in 3.9 seconds

Watch this 650-hp Hennessey Jeep Grand Cherokee go from 0-60 in 3.9 seconds originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 May 2013 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 jeep grand cherokee srt8hennesseyhennessey grand cherokee srt8hpe650jeepjeep grand cherokeejeep grand cherokee srtjeep grand cherokee srt8john hennesseysrtvideoTue, 14 May 2013 16:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20565375/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/14/watch-this-650-hp-hennessey-jeep-grand-cherokee-go-from-0-60-in/20565375/article-detail.xml 20565375 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/hennessey-grand-cherokee_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/hennessey-grand-cherokee.jpg <![CDATA[Chrysler recalls 468,700 Jeep Grand Cherokees, Commanders over rollaway risk]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/chrysler-recalls-468-700-jeep-grand-cherokees-commanders-over-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/chrysler-recalls-468-700-jeep-grand-cherokees-commanders-over-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/13/chrysler-recalls-468-700-jeep-grand-cherokees-commanders-over-r/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited

Chrysler has issued a recall covering a combined 469,000 units of the 2005-2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee and the 2006-2010 Jeep Commander (inset). Of that number, 295,000 are in the US, roughly 33,000 in Canada and Mexico and the remainder in other markets. It seems an electrical fault in the transfer case can allow the affected SUVs to shift into neutral on their own, while an Associated Press report says that Chrysler had "found cracks in a circuit board that turns the four-wheel-drive system on and off." The issue was discovered when an owner started his car remotely and it rolled away.

Chrysler is expected to begin notifying owners in June 2013, who can then take their cars to dealers. The dealer will reflash the final drive controller free of charge. There's a bulletin from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration below with more information.

Continue reading Chrysler recalls 468,700 Jeep Grand Cherokees, Commanders over rollaway risk

Chrysler recalls 468,700 Jeep Grand Cherokees, Commanders over rollaway risk originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 May 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeepjeep commanderjeep commander recalljeep commander recallsjeep grand cherokeejeep grand cherokee recallsjeep recalljeep recallsjeepcommanderrecalljeepcommanderrecallsjeepgrandcherokeerecallsjeeprecalljeeprecallsnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallMon, 13 May 2013 08:45:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20565869/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/13/chrysler-recalls-468-700-jeep-grand-cherokees-commanders-over-r/20565869/article-detail.xml 20565869 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2008-jeep-grand-cherokee_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/2008-jeep-grand-cherokee.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep shows off Moab Easter Safari concepts crawling the red rocks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/jeep-shows-off-moab-easter-safari-concepts-crawling-the-red-rock/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/jeep-shows-off-moab-easter-safari-concepts-crawling-the-red-rock/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/28/jeep-shows-off-moab-easter-safari-concepts-crawling-the-red-rock/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk II Concept negotiating Moab's red rocks - video screencap

While most brands are busy showing off in New York, Jeep headed out to Moab for the Easter Jeep Safari with the company's fleet of 2013 concepts. This year saw the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk II, Wrangler Mopar Recon, Wrangler Stitch, Wrangler Sand Trooper II, Wrangler Flattop and Wrangler Slim Concepts tackle the rocks and sand, and Jeep was kind enough to bring along a camera crew to film the machines rolling over a few obstacles. The result is the video below, though don't expect to see too much hardcore off road action.

Instead, the quick clip features more than a few interviews with Jeep executives, including Jeep Head of Product Design Mark Allen, explaining what makes the Easter Jeep Safari so important. You can check out the quick clip below for yourself, and be sure to thumb through our galleries of the concepts as well.

Continue reading Jeep shows off Moab Easter Safari concepts crawling the red rocks

Jeep shows off Moab Easter Safari concepts crawling the red rocks originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Mar 2013 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 jeep grand cherokee2013 jeep wranglereaster jeep safarijeepjeep conceptjeep grand cherokeejeep wranglermark allenmoabvideoThu, 28 Mar 2013 16:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20520647/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/28/jeep-shows-off-moab-easter-safari-concepts-crawling-the-red-rock/20520647/article-detail.xml 20520647 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/grand-cherokee-trailhawk-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/grand-cherokee-trailhawk-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep reveals annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari concepts [UPDATE]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/jeep-2013-moab-easter-jeep-safari-concepts/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/jeep-2013-moab-easter-jeep-safari-concepts/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/20/jeep-2013-moab-easter-jeep-safari-concepts/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Jeep Wrangler Sand Trooper II Concept

Jeep has unveiled its annual spate of concepts before the Easter Jeep Safari. Those start with the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Concept (below left), complete with the company's EcoDiesel V6 engine. Designers threw in a set of 35-inch Mickey Thompson tires wrapped around 17-inch Rubicon wheels, and a set of custom fender flares help keep all that rubber under wraps.

Meanwhile, the Wrangler Mopar Recon (below right) packs a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 good for 470 horsepower. All that grunt gets to the ground via a five-speed automatic transmission and a set of a Dana 60 axles frond and rear with 4.10 gears. The Recon also makes use of a 4.5-inch prototype long-arm kit and a set of prototype eight-lug bead lock wheels.



The Wrangler Stitch (below left) builds on the momentum of the Wrangler Pork Chop Concept. Engineers once again set out to strike as much weight as possible from the vehicle, and actually managed to trim the curb weight down to 3,000 pounds. That effort has given the machine the same power to weight ratio as the Grand Cherokee SRT. Plenty of carbon fiber, door deletes and a chrome moly roll cage all help trim those pounds, and a set of DanyTrac Pro Rock 44 axles with 4.88 gears and ARB lockers front and rear let this machine scramble over whatever is in its path.



The Wrangler Sand Trooper II (very top) gets its grunt from a 5.7-liter Hemi and puts all 400 pound-feet of torque to the ground via a set of eight-lug portal axles. That hardware allows the Sand Trooper II to run 40-inch tires.

Jeep took a different approach with the Wrangler Flattop (above middle), however. With an upscale appearance, the Flattop boasts a chopped windowless hard top that shortens the machine in height by a full two inches. Designers also cut out the B pillar for a massive side opening. Katzkin leather seating indoors helps offer up a bit more refinement, and the Warn Zeon winch and 37-inch Mickey Thompson tires give the rig some added capability off road.

Finally, the Wrangler Slim (above right) is likely the most accessible of the whole bunch, showing off exactly what can be built out of a Wrangler with a little patience on a budget. The Slim features a 3.6-liter V6, axles with a 3.73 ratio, 17-inch prototype wheels and a 10th-Anniversary Rubicon front bumper. Rock rails and a two-inch lift help get the Slim off the ground.

Check the full press release below for more information on all six rigs.

UPDATE: We've just returned from Chrysler's Design Dome and brought back with us a slew of pics of all of the vehicles. See them in our exclusive galleries below.

Continue reading Jeep reveals annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari concepts [UPDATE]

Jeep reveals annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari concepts [UPDATE] originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 moab easter jeep safariconceptjeepjeep grand cherokeejeep grand cherokee trailhawk IIjeep wranglerjeep wrangler flattopjeep wrangler mopar reconjeep wrangler sand trooper IIjeep wrangler stitchmoab easter jeep safariWed, 20 Mar 2013 12:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20511657/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/20/jeep-2013-moab-easter-jeep-safari-concepts/20511657/article-detail.xml 20511657 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/jeep-wrangler-sand-trooper-ii-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/jeep-wrangler-sand-trooper-ii-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep teases pair of Moab concepts early]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/jeep-teases-pair-of-moab-concepts-early/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/jeep-teases-pair-of-moab-concepts-early/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/19/jeep-teases-pair-of-moab-concepts-early/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



With the 47th annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari coming up at the end of this month, Jeep is preparing to roll out six new off-road-ready concept vehicles. The first two being teased are the Jeep Grand Cherokee "Trailhawk II" concept and the Jeep Wrangler "Slim," and while we have no information on either, we at least get an idea of what they'll look like.

We can't tell why this Wrangler is called Slim, but it has a nice black-and-red paint scheme with a serious off-roading front bumper and five-spoke beadlock wheels. There's even less we can figure out about the Grand Cherokee's Trailhawk II concept except that it appears to be painted up in the same Crusher Orange paint job as the recently introduced SRT Viper TA. We'll likely more of these as well as peeks at the other Moab concepts as we get closet to this year's Moab Easter Jeep Safari, which will be held March 23 through 31.

Continue reading Jeep teases pair of Moab concepts early

Jeep teases pair of Moab concepts early originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 19 Mar 2013 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeepjeep conceptjeep grand cherokeejeep grand cherokee trailhawk ii conceptjeep moab conceptjeep wranglerjeep wrangler slim conceptMoab Easter Jeep SafariTue, 19 Mar 2013 13:15:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20509296/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/19/jeep-teases-pair-of-moab-concepts-early/20509296/article-detail.xml 20509296 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-jeep-wrangler-slim-concept-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2013-jeep-wrangler-slim-concept-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep sets all-time sales record in 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/jeep-sets-all-time-sales-record-in-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/jeep-sets-all-time-sales-record-in-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/jeep-sets-all-time-sales-record-in-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

Last year was good to Jeep. Chrysler has announced its trail-rated brand set an all-time global sales record in 2012 by moving 701,626 units. That number easily surpasses the previous record set in 1999 when Jeep sold 675,494 models. All told, the brand saw a 19-percent sales increase worldwide over 2011, and much of that swell can be traced directly to the Wrangler. While the Grand Cherokee led Jeep sales, the Wrangler posted record numbers both globally and within the US, moving 194,142 and 141,669 units in each market, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Compass beat its previous global sales record with 103,321 units rolling off of dealer lots. In the US, Jeep sold 62,010 Patriot units, breaking that model's previous record as well. Jeep's impressive performance in 2012 marks the second year in a row the brand has seen double-digit percentage sales increases. Check out the full press release below.

Continue reading Jeep sets all-time sales record in 2012

Jeep sets all-time sales record in 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslercompassgrand cherokeejeepjeep compassjeep grand cherokeejeep patriotjeep record salesjeep sales recordjeep wranglerpatriotwranglerWed, 09 Jan 2013 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20423304/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/09/jeep-sets-all-time-sales-record-in-2012/20423304/article-detail.xml 20423304 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-jeep-wrangler-rubicon-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/2013-jeep-wrangler-rubicon-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep Grand Cherokee headed for Detroit reveal on diesel power]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/jeep-grand-cherokee-headed-for-detroit-reveal-on-diesel-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/jeep-grand-cherokee-headed-for-detroit-reveal-on-diesel-power/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/jeep-grand-cherokee-headed-for-detroit-reveal-on-diesel-power/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Jeep Grand Cherokee spy shots

Time to quit your bellyaching and pony up your pennies, Jeep fans. Chrysler has announced the Jeep Grand Cherokee will bow with a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine in the first quarter of next year. The engine yields 237 horsepower and an impressive 406 pound-feet of torque, and all that twist shows up from 1,800 rpm on. If you're counting, that's 16 lb-ft more than the 5.7-liter V8. Expect to see it bolted to a six-speed automatic transmission. As you may recall, this isn't the first time we've heard this news.

Jeep CEO Mike Manley let the news slip while speaking with Ward's Auto at the LA Auto Show, and said if buyer feedback is any indication, the new model should see healthy sales. Manley also pointed to the now deceased Liberty diesel, which the executive said that enjoyed a faithful, if small following. Odds are we'll hear more about pricing and fuel economy when the diesel Grand Cherokee gets an official unveil at the 2013 Detroit Auto Show.

Jeep Grand Cherokee headed for Detroit reveal on diesel power originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 detroit auto showchryslerdetroit auto showdieselgrand cherokee dieseljeepjeep grand cherokeeWed, 05 Dec 2012 16:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20395198/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/05/jeep-grand-cherokee-headed-for-detroit-reveal-on-diesel-power/20395198/article-detail.xml 20395198 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/jeep-grand-cherokee-spy-shot-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/jeep-grand-cherokee-spy-shot-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep recalling nearly 1M Grand Cherokee and Liberty SUVs over airbag fault]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/jeep-recalling-nearly-1m-grand-cherokee-and-liberty-suvs-over-ai/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/jeep-recalling-nearly-1m-grand-cherokee-and-liberty-suvs-over-ai/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/09/jeep-recalling-nearly-1m-grand-cherokee-and-liberty-suvs-over-ai/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee - front three-quarter view, maroon

A recall has been issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for select model year Jeep Grand Cherokee models and Liberty vehicles over airbag concerns. The recall extends to 2002-2004 Grand Cherokee and 2002-2003 Liberty models, affecting nearly a million vehicles worldwide.

The central recall issue is a faulty sensor in the airbag control module that may result in the inadvertent deployment of front or side curtain airbags while vehicle is in motion. This obviously has the potential to be quite dangerous.

Specifically, Liberty vehicles built between January 9, 2001, and March 28, 2003 are in question. As for the Grand Cherokee, potentially affected vehicles were built between February 13, 2001 and May 23, 2003. The number of recalled Jeep vehicles in the US totals 744,822, though when factoring global sales, that number swells to over 919,000.

Chrysler plans on notifying owners beginning in January. The repair program will involve installing a supplemental jumper harness to the airbag control module at no cost to the owner.

Continue reading Jeep recalling nearly 1M Grand Cherokee and Liberty SUVs over airbag fault

Jeep recalling nearly 1M Grand Cherokee and Liberty SUVs over airbag fault originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2002 jeep grand cherokee2002 jeep liberty2003 jeep grand cherokee2003 jeep liberty2004 jeep grand cherokeegrand cherokeejeepjeep grand cherokeejeep libertyjeep recalllibertynhtsaFri, 09 Nov 2012 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20375513/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/09/jeep-recalling-nearly-1m-grand-cherokee-and-liberty-suvs-over-ai/20375513/article-detail.xml 20375513 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2002-jeep-grand-cherokee_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2002-jeep-grand-cherokee.jpg <![CDATA[2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee passes German "moose test"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/29/2012-jeep-grand-cherokee-passes-german-moose-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/29/2012-jeep-grand-cherokee-passes-german-moose-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/29/2012-jeep-grand-cherokee-passes-german-moose-test/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jeep Grand Cherokee

Chrysler has released a press release detailing the findings of a recent 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee "moose test" by the German magazine Auto Motor und Sport. The publication ran the Grand Cherokee through conditions supposedly identical to those in a test conducted by the Swedish magazine Teknikens Varld, which saw the SUV nearly roll over after an abrupt lane change. After AMS loaded the Jeep with a varying number of passengers and the maximum amount of cargo, it said the vehicle remained stable with all four wheels on the ground during abrupt maneuvers.

As you may recall, Teknikens Varld produced a video showing the Grand Cherokee lift up onto two wheels during a simulated emergency lane change. Chrysler responded by saying the Jeep was intentionally overloaded and even sent a team of engineers to reproduce the test with the Swedish magazine. Take a look at the press release posted below for more information, including a translation of the text from Auto Motor und Sport.

Continue reading 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee passes German "moose test"

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee passes German "moose test" originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Jul 2012 13:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 jeep grand cherokeechryslergrand cherokeegrand cherokee moose testjeepjeep grand cherokeemoose testSun, 29 Jul 2012 13:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20288374/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/29/2012-jeep-grand-cherokee-passes-german-moose-test/20288374/article-detail.xml 20288374 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/jeep-grand-cherokee-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/jeep-grand-cherokee-628.jpg <![CDATA[Updated 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee spotted wearing new grille]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/11/updated-2014-jeep-grand-cherokee-spotted-wearing-new-grille/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/11/updated-2014-jeep-grand-cherokee-spotted-wearing-new-grille/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/07/11/updated-2014-jeep-grand-cherokee-spotted-wearing-new-grille/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee prototype - white - front three-quarter view with nose camouflage

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is facing mild updates and a short 2013 model year because Jeep wants to get the thoroughly breathed-on 2014 model into buyers' driveways. Our spy photographers caught a parade of the 2014 models with swirly wrapping covering a tweaked front end sporting narrower upper and lower grilles, a new fog light treatment and perhaps a bit more curvature overall. The interior was masked off, but a larger touchscreen is expected to grace the center console.

Among the expected new options are a 241-horsepower, 406-pound-foot, 3.0-liter diesel V6 that European Grand Cherokee buyers have been enjoying for some time now, as well as a ZF eight-speed automatic that's likely meant to partner with the Pentastar V6. Although the changes we know of so far might not seem to be worth all the hubbub, they should provide measurable added refinement to an already-polished vehicle that is still selling very well.

We expect to see it at this January's Detroit Auto Show, and production is predicted to begin in May 2013.

Updated 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee spotted wearing new grille originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jul 2012 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2014 jeep grand cherokeegrand cherokeejeepjeep grand cherokeespy photosspy shotsWed, 11 Jul 2012 18:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20275812/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/11/updated-2014-jeep-grand-cherokee-spotted-wearing-new-grille/20275812/article-detail.xml 20275812 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2014jeepgcspy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/2014jeepgcspy.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA now probing over 5M Jeep models over fuel tanks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/nhtsa-now-probing-over-5m-jeep-models-over-fuel-tanks/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/nhtsa-now-probing-over-5m-jeep-models-over-fuel-tanks/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/14/nhtsa-now-probing-over-5m-jeep-models-over-fuel-tanks/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Jeep Emblem

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.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>center for auto safetycherokeegrand cherokeejeepjeep cherokeejeep firejeep grand cherokeejeep libertylibertynational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarecallThu, 14 Jun 2012 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20258424/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/14/nhtsa-now-probing-over-5m-jeep-models-over-fuel-tanks/20258424/article-detail.xml 20258424 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/jeep-emblem-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/jeep-emblem-628.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep climbs to higher Altitude with murdered-out specials]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/jeep-altitude-grand-cherokee-compass-patriot-new-york-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/jeep-altitude-grand-cherokee-compass-patriot-new-york-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/05/jeep-altitude-grand-cherokee-compass-patriot-new-york-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We know what you're thinking: You'd love to buy a new Jeep, but only if it were more... black. Fortunately, dear friend, the Chrysler division has answered your prayers with a raft of special editions called Altitude.

The name was selected by online poll, and the vehicles were previewed by a series of "production-intent" concepts at successive auto shows. Now approved for production, the Altitude range includes a Grand Cherokee, a Compass and a Patriot, all distinguished by their blacked-out trim inside, out and upside down.

Check 'em out in the trio of galleries with the high-res shots we snapped for your viewing pleasure here on the show floor in New York.

Continue reading Jeep climbs to higher Altitude with murdered-out specials

Jeep climbs to higher Altitude with murdered-out specials originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 new york auto showaltitudecompassgrand cherokeejeepjeep compassjeep compass altitudejeep compass altitude editionjeep grand cherokeejeep grand cherokee altitudejeep grand cherokee altitude editionjeep patriotjeep patriot altitudejeep patriot altitude editionnew yorknew york 2012new york auto showpatriotThu, 05 Apr 2012 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20208820/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/05/jeep-altitude-grand-cherokee-compass-patriot-new-york-2012/20208820/article-detail.xml 20208820 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-jeep-grand-cherokee-altitude-ny-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/01-jeep-grand-cherokee-altitude-ny-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Jeep blacks out with crowdsourced Altitude edition Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/jeep-blacks-out-with-crowdsourced-altitude-edition-grand-cheroke/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/jeep-blacks-out-with-crowdsourced-altitude-edition-grand-cheroke/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/26/jeep-blacks-out-with-crowdsourced-altitude-edition-grand-cheroke/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Jeep Altitude edition Grand Cherokee, Patriot and Compass

If you were in Houston back in January for the car show there, you may have seen a murdered-out Grand Cherokee there which Jeep dubbed a "production-intent concept." The most iconic of Chrysler brands then rolled into Geneva with a similar GC with more of a Storm Trooper look, joined by a blacked-out Compass. These, too, were called "production-intent concepts" - a name that wasn't all that dynamic. So Jeep opened a contest called "Name My Ride," and the handle chosen was "Altitude." Now Jeep is putting the Altitude into its product catalog for the Grand Cherokee, Compass and the Patriot, too.

Like the concepts, the production Altitude special editions are characterized by their blacked-out approach. For the Grand Cherokee, that means a black grille surround, black headlamp trim, black liftgate light bar, blacked-out 20-inch alloys and a black interior, complemented by "platinum chrome" on the lower fascia and the mesh grille. For the Compass, the Altitude edition blacks out the grille, headlamp bezels, roof rails, step pad and 18-inch alloys (as well as the interior), whole the Patriot Altitude gets black 17-inch alloys and cabin but trades in most of the rest for chrome and polished steel.

If this all strikes you as just too dark, each model is available in other colors for the bodywork, in which case the black trim provides the contrast. They all come packed with optional extras as well, with prices starting at $20,240 for the Patriot Altitude edition, $22,190 for the Compass Altitude and $35,595 for the Grand Cherokee Altitude. Like what you see? Check 'em out in the high-res image gallery and the full press release after the jump.

Continue reading Jeep blacks out with crowdsourced Altitude edition Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot

Jeep blacks out with crowdsourced Altitude edition Grand Cherokee, Compass and Patriot originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altitudecompassgrand cherokeejeepjeep compassjeep compass altitudejeep grand cherokeejeep grand cherokee altitudejeep patriotjeep patriot altitudepatriotMon, 26 Mar 2012 17:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20201300/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/26/jeep-blacks-out-with-crowdsourced-altitude-edition-grand-cheroke/20201300/article-detail.xml 20201300 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/jeep-altitude-1332793527_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/jeep-altitude-1332793527.jpg <![CDATA[Hennessey rolls out 800-hp twin-turbo Jeep Grand Cherokee]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/24/hennessey-rolls-out-800-hp-twin-turbo-jeep-grand-cherokee/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/24/hennessey-rolls-out-800-hp-twin-turbo-jeep-grand-cherokee/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/24/hennessey-rolls-out-800-hp-twin-turbo-jeep-grand-cherokee/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Hennessey HPE800 Twin-Turbo Jeep

Eight-hundred horsepower. 0-60 in 3.1 seconds. $235,000. Given those numbers, you'd think we were talking about a supercar, right? Well we are, if by supercar you mean something with otherworldly performance capabilities. But this is no two-seat roadster. This is a Jeep.

To be more specific, this is the latest Hennessey HPE800 Twin Turbo, a new rocket sled based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. That model usually packs a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 - which is already big by any measure - but Hennessey's bored it out to a nice round 7.0 liters and bolted a pair of turbochargers to it.

Along with the substantial engine mods, the HPE800 also gets an upgraded transmission and torque converted (it is a conventional automatic, after all), plus 20-inch wheels on a lowered suspension with 15.1-inch Brembo brakes, and a reworked fascia with a carbon fiber splitter up front.

Of course, if the high price of entry doesn't keep out the riffraff, the limited quantities being built surely will: only 24 examples are earmarked for production, so even at the pace at which these beasts will cover all manner of terrain, they're not likely to run into one another once they've left the factory. Press release after the jump.

Continue reading Hennessey rolls out 800-hp twin-turbo Jeep Grand Cherokee

Hennessey rolls out 800-hp twin-turbo Jeep Grand Cherokee originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 24 Dec 2011 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>grand cherokeehennesseyjeepjeep grand cherokeejeep grand cherokee srt8Sat, 24 Dec 2011 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20132547/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/24/hennessey-rolls-out-800-hp-twin-turbo-jeep-grand-cherokee/20132547/article-detail.xml 20132547 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2013-tt-jeep_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2013-tt-jeep.jpg <![CDATA[Ford sweeps Texas Truck Rodeo awards, Chrysler defends SUV crown]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/ford-sweeps-texas-truck-rodeo-awards-chrysler-defends-suv-crown/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/ford-sweeps-texas-truck-rodeo-awards-chrysler-defends-suv-crown/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/24/ford-sweeps-texas-truck-rodeo-awards-chrysler-defends-suv-crown/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

2011 Ford F-150

The Texas Auto Writers Association has awarded the 2012 Ford F-150 a slew of honors. The pickup took home the Truck of Texas title by beating out its competitors at the annual Truck Rodeo. The award is the association's most prestigious honor, but Ford also picked up a few other nods. TAWA named the company's EcoBoost engine technology its best vehicle feature, and the 2012 Ford Edge took home the CUV of Texas badge. Finally, the entire Ford pickup line was named the Truck Line of Texas by the association, making for a pretty clean sweep of the truck competition.

This year, manufacturers entered 48 vehicles into the TAWA Truck Rodeo, and 57 automotive writers turned out to evaluate the trucks and SUVs. When the dust settled, Ford had earned seven awards total, including the best heavy-duty, luxury and full-size pickup trucks.

For its part, Chrysler saw its products fare well in the competition, too. The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee went home carrying SUV of Texas trophy, while TAWA awarded its sister, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, the mid-sized SUV of Texas title. Finally, the writers in attendance named the 2012 Dodge Durango the full-size SUV of Texas.

Hit the jump for a volley of press releases.

Continue reading Ford sweeps Texas Truck Rodeo awards, Chrysler defends SUV crown

Ford sweeps Texas Truck Rodeo awards, Chrysler defends SUV crown originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 24 Oct 2011 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodgedodge durangodurangoecoboostf-150f-seriesf150fordford f-150grand cherokeejeepjeep grand cherokeejeep wranglertawatexas auto writers associationwranglerMon, 24 Oct 2011 11:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20088726/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/24/ford-sweeps-texas-truck-rodeo-awards-chrysler-defends-suv-crown/20088726/article-detail.xml 20088726 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/ford-f-150-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/ford-f-150-628.jpg -1 2