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Post Number: 107
Registered: 1-2005
| | Posted on Thursday, September 29, 2005 - 3:35 pm: |       |
Jeep® Hints at Future Product Expansion
Jeep® has hinted at the products which will drive its global portfolio expansion, releasing sketches of two compact four-wheel-drive concepts that will make their world premiere at the Frankfurt Auto Show on September 12, 2005.
The two concepts, Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass Rallye explore new territory for the brand which has built its name on off-road prowess, adventure and a rich 65 year heritage.
The Patriot and Compass Rallye concepts signal the continuation of the Jeep product offensive scheduled for the next two years which began with the introduction of the seven-seater Jeep Commander at the 2005 New York International Auto Show in March.
Jeep Patriot
Jeep Patriot concept offers a modern interpretation of classic Jeep styling: rugged, strong and capable. It would appeal to young buyers looking to join the brand in a genuine Jeep vehicle that would deliver fun and freedom at a great value. Jeep Patriot not only looks like a Jeep, but all-new Jeep off-road technology would ensure the Patriot is the most capable vehicle in its class.
Jeep Compass Rallye
The Jeep Compass Rallye concept broadens the global appeal of the Jeep brand. It’s a contemporary styled Jeep concept that would target new buyers who might not have previously considered the brand. Compact and nimble, Jeep Compass Rallye concept is the right size for world markets and is designed to offer a fun-to-drive experience, performance and fuel economy unexpected in the highly competitive compact four-wheel-drive segment.
“The Jeep Patriot and Jeep Compass Rallye concepts stay true to the brand’s image of rugged, individualistic vehicles and like all Jeeps they would be the most capable off-road products in their segments,” said Gerry Jenkins, managing director, Chrysler Jeep Australia.
“By offering two distinctive interpretations of the Jeep design theme, Compass Rallye and Patriot concepts complement each other and target different sets of customers who both seek great value within the compact four-wheel-drive segment. If we were to build them they would draw new buyers into the Jeep fold and expand the brand,” said Jenkins.
On a local front Jeep’s July sales were up 5 per cent over 2004, driven by the continued popularity of the Wrangler (up 75 per cent for the month) and the recently released all-new third-generation Grand Cherokee (up 38 per cent).
Expected to further boost the brand’s sales is this month’s addition of a new 3.0-litre diesel variant for the new Grand Cherokee, which sees the very latest DaimlerChrysler engine come to market. |
