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[REPORT: Jeep Wrangler safe from CARB "Cool Cars" proposal]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-jeep-wrangler-safe-from-carb-cool-cars-proposal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-jeep-wrangler-safe-from-carb-cool-cars-proposal/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/25/report-jeep-wrangler-safe-from-carb-cool-cars-proposal/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Remember California's "Cool Cars" regulation? Coming into force in 2012, the rule requires manufacturers to install windows that prevent 45% of the sun's energy from entering a vehicle by 2014, and 60% by 2016. It's the law that no one thinks is cool at all. In a minor victory against The Golden State's increasingly severe environmental regulations (and we live there and love it, but still...), the soft-top Jeep Wrangler has reportedly been given an exemption.

Specifically, any flexible plastic window is exempt. Said a CARB representative, "If the plastic windows are rigid, they must comply with the same standards as glass windows, beginning with the 2012 model year." If not for the flexible-window exemption, Chrysler wouldn't have been allowed to sell the Wrangler in California with the soft top because its plastic windows would have been non-compliant. Chrysler's Global Electric Motorcars (GEM) were also threatened, but are now safe from the regulation as well.

As for the other issue -- radio wave interference that degrades GPS and other signals -- CARB said it hasn't found any such problems in its testing. But who knows, now that the Jeep gets a pass, carmakers might just put flexible windows in every car sold in CA ... and how cool would that be?

[Source: The Detroit News]

REPORT: Jeep Wrangler safe from CARB "Cool Cars" proposal originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 25 Oct 2009 14:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiaCalifornia Air Resources BoardCaliforniaAirResourcesBoardcarbcool carsCoolCarsenvironmentgovernmentjeepjeep wranglerJeepWranglerlegalwranglerSun, 25 Oct 2009 14:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Autoblog Comparo: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon vs. Hummer H3T]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/autoblog-comparo-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-vs-hummer-h3t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/autoblog-comparo-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-vs-hummer-h3t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/30/autoblog-comparo-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-vs-hummer-h3t/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited vs. Hummer H3T - Click above for high-res image gallery

Last year, we compared the dirtside manners of the Hummer H2 and Toyota Land Cruiser. Both trucks did everything we asked of them, but at the end of the excursion we were left with another question begging to be answered: could the Hummer H3T stand up to the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon? These cruiserweights live on a fatter part of the buying curve, and any time a Jeep is summoned to the ring, the other vehicle is inevitably the challenger. Even though the H3T is still relatively new to the world, it came time to find out if it was ready to stand up and fight for its place. Follow the jump to see how it held up.


Gallery: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon vs. Hummer H3T


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Autoblog Comparo: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon vs. Hummer H3T

Autoblog Comparo: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon vs. Hummer H3T originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredh3thummerhummer h3tHummerH3tjeepjeep hummerjeep hummer comparojeep wranglerjeep wrangler rubicon unlimitedjeep wrangler unlimitedJeepHummerJeepHummerComparoJeepWranglerJeepWranglerRubiconUnlimitedJeepWranglerUnlimitedreviewreviewswranglerwrangler unlimitedWranglerUnlimitedTue, 30 Jun 2009 11:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Chrysler to restart seven North American plants by end of month]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/chrysler-to-restart-seven-north-american-plants-by-end-of-month/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/chrysler-to-restart-seven-north-american-plants-by-end-of-month/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/17/chrysler-to-restart-seven-north-american-plants-by-end-of-month/#commentsFiled under: ,



Hot on the heels of news that the Dodge Viper's Conner Avenue facility would be the first Chrysler plant to fire up after the company's bankruptcy proceedings/Fiat tie-up comes official word that the automaker will resume production at seven plants the week of June 29. In addition, Chrysler will bring the supporting powertrain and stamping plants online that supply the assembly factories listed below with parts.

According to Ed Garsten, Chrysler's manager of electronic media communications, the following assembly plants will resume production as part of a "phased production ramp-up" -
  • Sterling Heights Assembly Plant (Sterling Heights, MI) - Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger
  • Warren Truck Assembly Plant (Warren, MI) - Dodge Ram and Dodge Dakota
  • St. Louis North Assembly Plant (Fenton, MO) - Dodge Ram
  • Toledo Supplier Park (Toledo, OH) - Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
  • Brampton Assembly Plant (Brampton, Ontario, Canada) - Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Challenger
  • Windsor Assembly Plant (Windsor, Ontario, Canada ) - Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan
  • Toluca Assembly Plant (Toluca, Mexico) - Dodge Journey and Chrysler PT Cruiser
Despite the start-ups, all Chrysler plants will again idle for two weeks in the second half of July as part of a previously scheduled summer break.

Source: Chrysler | Image: Bill Pugliano/Getty]

Chrysler to restart seven North American plants by end of month originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BramptonChryCoChryslerChrysler 300Chrysler PT CruiserChrysler SebringChrysler Town and CountryChrysler Town CountryChrysler300ChryslerPtCruiserChryslerSebringChryslerTownAndCountryChryslerTownCountryDodge AvengerDodge CaravanDodge ChallengerDodge ChargerDodge DakotaDodge JourneyDodge RamDodge ViperDodgeAvengerDodgeCaravanDodgeChallengerDodgeChargerDodgeDakotaDodgeJourneyDodgeRamDodgeViperEd GarstenEdGarstenGrand CaravanGrandCaravanJeep WranglerJeepWranglerPT CruiserPtCruiserst. louisSt.Louissterling heightsSterlingHeightsToledoTolucawarren MichiganWarrenMichiganWindsorWranglerWed, 17 Jun 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeep recalling more than 47,000 Liberty, Commander, Grand Cherokee, and Wrangler models]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/14/jeep-recalling-more-than-47-000-liberty-commander-grand-cherok/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/14/jeep-recalling-more-than-47-000-liberty-commander-grand-cherok/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/14/jeep-recalling-more-than-47-000-liberty-commander-grand-cherok/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Chrysler is recalling over 47,000 models, including the 2009 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Commander, and Wrangler four-door that may have reversed wiring on the driver's airbag controller, a defect that may inhibit the airbag's deployment. Additionally, the 2002 and 2003 Jeep Libertys sold in New England and much of the Midwest are susceptible to a loss of lubrication in their front ball joints due to salt. The remedy for both recalls is a trip to the dealer, who will inspect and make any necessary repairs. You can read the full press releases after the jump.

[Source: NHTSA (Cherokee, Commander, Wrangler) & NHTSA (Liberty)]

Continue reading Jeep recalling more than 47,000 Liberty, Commander, Grand Cherokee, and Wrangler models

Jeep recalling more than 47,000 Liberty, Commander, Grand Cherokee, and Wrangler models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Apr 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslercommandergrand cherokeeGrandCherokeejeepjeep commanderjeep grand cherokeejeep libertyjeep wranglerJeepCommanderJeepGrandCherokeeJeepLibertyJeepWranglerlibertynhtsarecallsafetysuvtsbwranglerTue, 14 Apr 2009 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4x4]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/24/review-2009-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-4x4/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/24/review-2009-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-4x4/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/24/review-2009-jeep-wrangler-unlimited-rubicon-4x4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4x4 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Jeep Wrangler is designed to be one of the most capable vehicles on the planet. It can climb a 45-degree grade, tread through 30 inches of water and crawl down a rock-filled hillside - all with the top down and the doors off. Its shape hasn't changed much over the years, primarily because Jeep owners like the way the Wrangler looks and its aesthetic exists to support this rugged off-roader's functionality.

The Wrangler has stood the test of time, but an influx of capable and comfortable SUVs meant that the tried-and-true Jeep was in need of an update. To appeal to Wrangler enthusiasts who need more interior flexibility, Chrysler finally decided to pull the trigger on a four-door model. To the surprise of nobody, the Wrangler Unlimited has been one of the few hits from Chrysler in recent years, at one point prompting a dealer waiting list for the longest-running Jeep. We wanted to try the four-door Jeep for ourselves, so we welcomed a Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon into our garage for a week-long run.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4x4


All photos Copyright (C)2009 Chris Shunk / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4x4

Review: 2009 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4x4 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Mar 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 jeep wrangler2009JeepWranglerfeaturedJeepJeep WranglerJeep Wrangler UnlimitedJeep Wrangler Unlimited RubiconJeepWranglerJeepWranglerUnlimitedJeepWranglerUnlimitedRubiconReviewreviewedreviewsRubiconWranglerWrangler UnlimitedWranglerUnlimitedTue, 24 Mar 2009 11:58:00 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.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chryslercompassdodgejeepjeep compassjeep patriotJeepCompassJeepPatriotmarket shareMarketSharepatriotsalesus marketUsMarketwranglerwrangler unlimitedWranglerUnlimitedFri, 14 Sep 2007 15:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Thanks for the massive debt, here's a Jeep: Buy a log cabin, get a Wrangler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/25/thanks-for-the-massive-debt-heres-a-jeep-buy-a-log-cabin-ge/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/25/thanks-for-the-massive-debt-heres-a-jeep-buy-a-log-cabin-ge/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/25/thanks-for-the-massive-debt-heres-a-jeep-buy-a-log-cabin-ge/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Just as the Prius is an essential piece of kit if you desire to wrap yourself in the color green, if being ever-ready is what you'd like to exude, buy a house. Not just any house, mind you - that'd be like a Greenie stripped of their Starbucks intravenous drip, Livestrong bracelet, and Macintosh laptop. If it's backwood rancher/Eagle Scout that you're looking to portray, no domicile will do better than a log cabin. Of course, while the outside says 1885, modern log cabins are a luxury item commonly purchased as a weekend home for the well-heeled, or as a retirement home. Canada-based Pioneer Log Homes has just launched a UK branch, and customers that purchase a model called "The Anchorage" will be rewarded with a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited left in the drive when construction's done.

The two products definitely go together. Both the home and the 4-wheeler look like they could've been hewn with the same axe, offering a certain rugged charm. We like the idea, mainly because a vacation home is a delightful aspiration, as is a Wrangler. Pioneer says you don't have to be a millionaire to afford one of their homes, with a starting point of £650 per square meter. Let's see, multiply by two, divide by nine, hot damn - that's actually not terrible! At today's exchange rate, that square meter cost works out to about $150 per square foot. You could always turn around and sell the Jeep to pay down the mortgage.

press release after the jump

[Source: Pioneer Log Homes]

Continue reading Thanks for the massive debt, here's a Jeep: Buy a log cabin, get a Wrangler

Thanks for the massive debt, here's a Jeep: Buy a log cabin, get a Wrangler originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Jul 2007 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabinenglandhomejeeplogpioneerukunlimitedwranglerWed, 25 Jul 2007 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Post-apocalyptic transport: Earthroamer XV-JP]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/07/post-apocalyptic-transport-earthromer-xv-jp/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/07/post-apocalyptic-transport-earthromer-xv-jp/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/07/07/post-apocalyptic-transport-earthromer-xv-jp/#commentsFiled under: ,



Even though Jeep is world-renowned for its mud-plugging potential, that hasn't stopped eager outdoorsman from outfitting the iconic off-roader with every manner of survivalist gear. Some aftermarket manufacturers allow you to do it piece-by-piece, while more die-hard companies give you the full monty, with everything necessary to take on the world and more.

EarthRoamer is just such an outfit, introducing what may very well be the most desirable Wrangler yet. The XV-JP comes equipped with the usual upgraded suspension, winch, high-intensity lighting and other necessities for a serious off-road excursion, but there's more. A complete camping setup, including a tent mounted atop the roof that gives users the choice of three different material choices to match the elements, along with a queen-size bed, a solar power battery backup, an engine-heated hot water tank and a cassette toilet.

Naturally, the setup doesn't come cheap, jumping the six-figure mark for the full outfit. More information is available at EarthRoamer's website, here.

[Source: EarthRoamer via Winding Road]

Post-apocalyptic transport: Earthroamer XV-JP originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 07 Jul 2007 12:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>earthroamerjeepwranglerxv-jpSat, 07 Jul 2007 12:23:00 EST<![CDATA[STARTECH announces new Jeep Wrangler accessories]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/15/startech-announces-new-jeep-wrangler-accessories/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/15/startech-announces-new-jeep-wrangler-accessories/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/15/startech-announces-new-jeep-wrangler-accessories/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click for photo gallery

Startech, the division of Brabus that tunes and accessorizes Chrysler Group vehicles, has now turned its attention to the Jeep Wrangler. European Jeep drivers can now upgrade the Jeep's appearance with set of the firm's good-looking Monostar alloy five-spoke wheels. Tubular steel rocker panel guards will also be offered for both the standard Wrangler and the longer Unlimited (shown), and a chrome-rimmed spare-tire cover can be added to dress up the rear. Overall, the exterior accessories are tasteful and subtle -- so much so that apart from the wheels, you miss them at first glance.

Performance upgrades aren't ready yet, but they're coming. A tuning kit for the 2.8L CRD engine and a sport exhaust are said to be on the way. Finally, Brabus/Startech can do just about anything to upgrade vehicle interiors, and the Jeep is no exception. From a new steering wheel to a full leather interior (silly for a Wrangler, if you ask us), the only limiting factor is likely to be the customer's budget. Startech's press release is pasted after the jump. Hopefully, the accessories will be available through Brabus' US outlets as well.

[Source: Startech]

Gallery: Startech Jeep Wrangler

Continue reading STARTECH announces new Jeep Wrangler accessories

STARTECH announces new Jeep Wrangler accessories originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jun 2007 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>startechwranglerFri, 15 Jun 2007 10:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Intrepid Chinese make their own Jeep Wrangler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/12/intrepid-chinese-make-their-own-jeep-wrangler/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/12/intrepid-chinese-make-their-own-jeep-wrangler/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/12/intrepid-chinese-make-their-own-jeep-wrangler/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click the pic above to see a gallery

This faux Jeep gets a pass, because it comes out looking so close to the real thing, though Jeep faithful will likely pick it to pieces. Pieces is how the story begins, with a Bejing Jeep 2020 that has a tryst with a Sawz-all. Predictably, the 2020 gets all broken up after its torrid affair, and needs to be put back together. Two talented Chinese bodymen took up the mantle and reinvigorated this unloved, down and out conveyance.

The outcome sees the Jeep better than has ever been, which is the hope of anyone who ever partakes in an intervention, isn't it? While this facsimilie has been whipped up most of the way around the world, it's definitely got some Jeeper spirit going on. There's plenty of backyard-assembled CJs here in the homeland that don't look anywhere near as good as this totally fake Rubicon. Sure, the paint's not great (well, it does look shiny, that counts), and the mechanicals are a crapshoot, but the caution (and safety equipment) be damned attitude that these fellas show as they forge ahead and make something from nothing is true Jeep ethos. Besides, we'd much rather cruise the streets of China in the red faux Rubicon than the Chairman-Mao Green thing it started as. It's not the first time someone's made a replica out of a totally unrelated car, anyway. We're not generally fans of the practice, but we see the effort here and applaud the results.

[Source: China Car Times via Hemmings]

Gallery: Chinese Jeep replica

Intrepid Chinese make their own Jeep Wrangler originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Jun 2007 11:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bodyworkchinafakejeepreplicarubicontributewranglerTue, 12 Jun 2007 11:24:00 EST<![CDATA[NHTSA looking into Jeep stalling issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/04/nhtsa-looking-into-jeep-stalling-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/04/nhtsa-looking-into-jeep-stalling-issue/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/06/04/nhtsa-looking-into-jeep-stalling-issue/#commentsFiled under: , ,



While the recent success of the Wrangler Unlimited bodes well for Jeep and its continued domination of all things off-road, NHTSA is in the midst of investigating a series of complaints claiming that the iconic Jeep is stalling at highway speeds, and in some cases, losing electrical power.

All Wrangler models are under the agency's watchful eye, both the two- and four-door models, regardless if they're equipped with four-wheel drive or the standard two-wheel drive. NHTSA says that only 53 complaints have been filed, with 12 reporting a loss of lighting and electrical power.

NHTSA's investigation will include approximately 35,000 vehicles total, and at this point, no crashes or fatalities have been attributed to the issue.

[Source: Wall Street Journal]

NHTSA looking into Jeep stalling issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 04 Jun 2007 16:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cjelectricalhighway speedsHighwaySpeedsjeeprecallstallingunlimitedwranglerMon, 04 Jun 2007 16:36:00 EST<![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Wrangler Unlimited w/ SRT-8 HEMI]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/18/ebay-find-of-the-day-wrangler-unlimited-w-srt-8-hemi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/18/ebay-find-of-the-day-wrangler-unlimited-w-srt-8-hemi/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/05/18/ebay-find-of-the-day-wrangler-unlimited-w-srt-8-hemi/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Well, this looks like it could be fun. If you're in the market for a new Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited, you might want to check out this eBay auction first. The Jeep that's up for grabs has under 300 miles on it, and while it may look bone-stock, it's anything but. When you lift the hood, you'll find a 6.1L SRT-spec HEMI. The work was done by Burnsville Offroad, which specializes in conversions like this. According to Burnsville's website, an upgraded radiator is part of the deal when they perform these HEMI swaps, so cooling won't be a problem. All the accessory systems work as new, too. Looks like it came out of a Jeep factory, only better. Added bonus: you'll surprise more than a few unsuspecting drivers at stoplight grands prix.

Nice tip, Jay!

[Source: eBay]

Gallery: SRT HEMI Jeep Wrangler conversion

eBay Find of the Day: Wrangler Unlimited w/ SRT-8 HEMI originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 May 2007 19:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hemisrtwranglerFri, 18 May 2007 19:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeep Wrangler gets high, sets record]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/03/jeep-wrangler-gets-high-sets-record/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/03/jeep-wrangler-gets-high-sets-record/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/04/03/jeep-wrangler-gets-high-sets-record/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click image for photo gallery

The Jeep Wrangler has set the Guinness World Record for highest altitude attained by a four-wheeled vehicle after ferrying Matthias Jeschke and his Extrem Events adventure team up Chile's Ojos del Salado, the highest volcano on Earth. The trek from base camp to the world record height ran from March 7 to March 13, when the team's pair of Wrangler Rubicon Unlimiteds checked in at 6,646 meters, or 21,804 feet.

The Wranglers, stock save for Goodyear MT/R rubber (it stands for Maximum Traction/Reinforced), winches, and electronic altimiters, crossed a glacier and climbed up difficult terrain in inhospitable conditions (thin air, extreme cold, etc.) as part of the endeavour, earning raves from Jeschke on the blog he kept during the trip. His daily reports make for an interesting read despite his penchant for using "Jeep(R)" to the point of distraction (yes, the automaker was a sponsor, but come on). It's in there that we learned that both Kia and Mitsubishi have teams working on the record, too, so we'll keep an eye out for updates on those efforts as well. Today, however, the title belongs to Jeep.

Press release after the jump.

[Sources: Chrysler Group, Höehenrekord 2007]

Gallery: Jeep Wrangler Altitude Record



Continue reading Jeep Wrangler gets high, sets record

Jeep Wrangler gets high, sets record originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 03 Apr 2007 10:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>altitude recordAltitudeRecordchileOjos del SaladoOjosDelSaladowranglerwrangler unlimitedWranglerUnlimitedTue, 03 Apr 2007 10:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Want a Wrangler Unlimited? Be prepared to wait]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/21/want-a-wranger-unlimited-be-prepared-to-wait/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/21/want-a-wranger-unlimited-be-prepared-to-wait/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/03/21/want-a-wranger-unlimited-be-prepared-to-wait/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The DCX crew didn't anticipate the strong reception that the Jeep Unlimited would be granted when it was released earlier this year. The four-door Wrangler's popularity has put Chrysler in the enviable position of not being able to keep supply up to meet the demand, especially when said off-roader is equipped with the FreedomTop and MyGIG entertainment system.

According to a statement from the Product Communications rep, D.W. Bodene, "We're building new Wranglers as fast as we can, but it's a vehicle whose popularity exceeded our expectations." He goes on to point out that Wrangler sales were up in February by 63 percent and by 124 percent in January.

We're not quite sure what the rest of you are seeing on Jeep lots, but the few Wrangler Unlimiteds we've spied haven't been hanging around for long and the dealers are tacking on a markup accordingly.

[Source: Straightline]

Want a Wrangler Unlimited? Be prepared to wait originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Mar 2007 19:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>freedom topfreedomtopjeepmygigwranglerwrangler unlimitedWranglerUnlimitedWed, 21 Mar 2007 19:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Auto Show: more Jeep parlor tricks (video)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/18/detroit-auto-show-more-jeep-parlor-tricks-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/18/detroit-auto-show-more-jeep-parlor-tricks-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/18/detroit-auto-show-more-jeep-parlor-tricks-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Did you check out the video of the Wrangler hanging on the wall like Spiderman? That wasn't even the coolest thing going on at Jeep's display at this year's Detroit show. The big draw was a big fall - a waterfall that spells things out (like Jeep's name) and makes shapes (like Jeep's trademark grille).

As the fellow in the video points out, NAIAS 2007 wasn't the first time Jeep has used this innovative and attention-grabbing water effects display. It's been used in Beijing, Geneva, Frankfurt and even previous Detroit shows. Trick effects displays like this tend to tire after a while, but Jeep's waterfall stands the test of time - not unlike the classic Jeep Wrangler itself.

[Source: DCX via Winding Road]

Detroit Auto Show: more Jeep parlor tricks (video) originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Jan 2007 14:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>072007autodetroitdisplayeffectsjeepnaiasshowwaterfallwranglerThu, 18 Jan 2007 14:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Mopar going off-road with Jeep]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/17/mopar-going-off-road-with-jeep/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/17/mopar-going-off-road-with-jeep/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/17/mopar-going-off-road-with-jeep/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

One may only associate The Chrysler Group's performance parts brand with rear-wheel drive muscle cars and honking V8s, but that will likely soon change as Mopar plans to branch out and begin providing performance parts for the Jeep brand. One can tell by the comments made by Christine Cortez, the senior VP of global service and parts for DCX, at the Automotive News World Congress in Dearborn yesterday, that Mopar is in new territory when it comes to vehicles that like to leave the glassy smooth blacktop of terra firma, but nevertheless the brand plans to expand and begin offering parts for these neglected off-road enthusiasts. Though Cortez doesn't elaborate and tell us what type of parts and for which vehicles they'll be offered, one can assume the venerable Wrangler will be a top priority. Should we expect Mopar branded lift kits, off-road lighting and winches? Who knows, but the Mopar brand has proven to be elastic before. How else do you explain its involvement and success in the D1 Grand Prix professional drifting series.

[Source: Automotive News]

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Mopar going off-road with Jeep originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Jan 2007 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>jeepmoparoff-roadwranglerWed, 17 Jan 2007 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit Auto Show: Wrangler, Wrangler on the Wall (video)]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/16/detroit-auto-show-wrangler-wrangler-on-the-wall-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/16/detroit-auto-show-wrangler-wrangler-on-the-wall-video/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/01/16/detroit-auto-show-wrangler-wrangler-on-the-wall-video/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

DaimlerChrysler clearly spent big this year at the Detroit show. The Mercedes-Benz "cars on ice" display was impressive, but the Jeep's presence was even more so. In addition to the trippy waterfall - we swear, it was making shapes - the neo-Flinstones display had a new Wrangler Unlimited mounted on the side of a big faux-rock tower. You look up and think, "whoa, there's a Jeep up there", but for those left wondering how they did it, this brief two-and-a-half-minute video shows the inside story. Not as simple as you might think.

[Source: Winding Road]

Detroit Auto Show: Wrangler, Wrangler on the Wall (video) originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 16 Jan 2007 14:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>detroitjeepnaiasunlimitedvideowranglerTue, 16 Jan 2007 14:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Re-Vote! Jeep Wrangler accidentally left off TOTY balloting]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/15/re-vote-jeep-wrangler-accidentally-left-off-toty-balloting/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/15/re-vote-jeep-wrangler-accidentally-left-off-toty-balloting/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/12/15/re-vote-jeep-wrangler-accidentally-left-off-toty-balloting/#commentsFiled under: ,



Due to an egregious omission of the 2007 Jeep Wrangler on the ballot for the 2007 North American Truck of the Year Award, jurors are being asked to revote for finalists of the honor that's traditionally bestowed upon the most deserving truck at the beginning of the Detroit Auto Show. Voting officially closed for the truck award on December 6th, but jurors now have until next Tuesday, December 19th, to revote. According to Automotive News, jurors have 25 points to distribute among the candidates, the maximum a vehicle can get is 10 and only one score of 10 can be awarded.

The Chevy Silverado, Ford Edge and Mazda CX-7 have already been chosen as finalists, and if the Wrangler finishes among the top three in the revote, it wlll become the fourth finalist.

Unfortunately Automotive News didn't find out the reason why the Jeep Wrangler was left off the ballot, so we can only suspect a vast right wing conspiracy as the root cause (j/k). Regardless, we should find out whether or not the Wrangle makes the cut before the awards are announced and presented on January 7th at the beginning of the Media Preview days of the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

[Source: Automotive News]

Re-Vote! Jeep Wrangler accidentally left off TOTY balloting originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Dec 2006 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2007NAIASNorth American Truck of the YearNorthAmericanTruckOfTheYearTOTYTruck of the YearTruckOfTheYearWranglerFri, 15 Dec 2006 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hummer H4 headed for Detroit]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/20/hummer-h4-headed-for-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/20/hummer-h4-headed-for-detroit/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/11/20/hummer-h4-headed-for-detroit/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Among the many showstoppers General Motors has planned for the North American International Auto Show in January, its military-inspired off-road brand HUMMER will be unveiling an H4 concept. The oft rumored H4 will be smaller than the successful H3 SUV that's currently driving HUMMER sales and will be slated to compete with the Jeep Wrangler. While the H3 is built on the same platform as the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickups, we don't yet know what will underpin the H3. AutoWeek sources confirm, however, that it will not be built on a front-wheel drive platform. With the success of the H3 worldwide continuing unabated despite the fluctuation of fuel prices, the decision to produce the H4 concept should be an easy one for General Motors. Expect a version suitable for mass market consumption around 2010. HUMMER will also have a pickup version of the H3 on display at the Detroit show. With two new potential vehicles on deck, HUMMER appears ready to carve as large a niche for itself as possible out of the remaining pool of off-road warriors.

[Source: AutoWeek]

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Hummer H4 headed for Detroit originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Nov 2006 16:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptDetroit auto showDetroitAutoShowH1H2H3H4HUMMERJeepNAIASNAIAS 2007Naias2007pickuptruckWranglerMon, 20 Nov 2006 16:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Jeep gets its SEMA on with Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/28/jeep-gets-its-sema-on-with-wrangler-rubicon-unlimited/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/28/jeep-gets-its-sema-on-with-wrangler-rubicon-unlimited/http://www.autoblog.com/2006/10/28/jeep-gets-its-sema-on-with-wrangler-rubicon-unlimited/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

UPDATE: New, hi res photo added and details from press release


Click the pic for a hi res image

We're not done yet with the flood of vehicles the Chrysler Group has prepared for the SEMA show in Las Vegas next week. The next one comes from Jeep in the form of the diesel-powered Wranger Rubicon Unlimited. The Jeep/Truck engineering-design shop run by Ralph Gilles has beefed up the Wrangler Unlimited with a pair of Tru-Lok Dana 44 axles capped with 35-inch BFG tires mounted on custom 18-inch aluminum rims by Taneisya. The Warn winch up front provides a Get Out of Jail Free card for the careless rock crawler, and it's mounted on an American Expedition Vehicles front bumper. All exterior body panels are sprayed with Rolex Silver paint that turns the Wrangler Rubicon Limited into a passable Mercedes-Benz G-wagon impersonator. But what really excites us about this Jeep is the 3.0-liter CRD diesel engine that powers it. We count ourselves in the camp that's very eager for Jeep to drop an oil-burner into the Wrangler, especially since the new Wrangler's 3.8-liter V6 doesn't have the same low end grunt the previous in-line six possessed. We're hoping this SEMA concept from Jeep is a portent of things to come for the Wrangler.

BTW - Jalopnik also has live shots of the Nitro Panel Wagon we previewed last week.

[Source: Jalopnik]

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Continue reading Jeep gets its SEMA on with Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited

Jeep gets its SEMA on with Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Oct 2006 07:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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