Production of the 2008 Jeep Liberty Begins!

From the official press release:

The 2008 Jeep Liberty continues Chrysler Group's expanding Flexible Manufacturing Strategy (FMS), allowing the Company to bring new vehicles to market quickly and efficiently; and enable its assembly plants to manufacture multiple products on one assembly line.

The Toledo North Plant was extensively retooled to manage the complexity of building two different models on one production line. Investments included multiple plant upgrades, improving quality, productivity and worker ergonomics. Last year, more than 160,000 square feet were added to the plant floor to enhance body and assembly processes. The all-new Liberty carried an investment 85 percent less than previous products. The vehicle is the second model of a two-model flexible manufacturing process implemented at TNAP.

The retooling of TNAP is part of $3.9 billion spent on Toledo manufacturing capabilities that include an original $1.2 billion to build Toledo North (opening in 2001) and $2.1 billion for Chrysler's Toledo Supplier Park, home of the all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited four-door.

2008 Jeep Liberty Pricing Lower Then Outgoing Model

Chrysler's price-slashing continues, with the latest recipient being the redesigned 2008 Jeep Liberty, which arrives bearing a price tag that starts at $20,990 for a Sport 4x2 model and $22,600 for a Sport 4x4 including a $660 destination fee -- $1270 and $1170, respectively, less than the outgoing model. Limited models start at $25,175 and $26,785 -- $720 and $620 lower than before.

The new Liberty receives a redesigned independent suspension up front and a new five-link suspension in the rear, standard side curtain airbags, and an available full-length "Sky Slider" open-canvas roof that provides a taste of the open-top experience offered by the Wrangler. Sky Slider is offered on both Sport and Limited trims as a $1,200 option. Available only on Limited 4x4 models is the Selec-Trac II full-time four-wheel drive system that can be used on dry pavement as well as low-traction surfaces.

Powertrain choices remain unchanged, with the 210 horsepower, 235 lb-ft of torque 3.7-liter V-6 and its four-speed automatic soldiering on as the only engine/transmission combo offered.

2008 Jeep Gladiator or is it the JT?

We recently found an article posted on the net about a 2008 Jeep Gladiator Concept. Oddly enough, there are no pictures of the vehicle, but from the sounds of it ... it seems like it could be referring to the JT Concept... or could it? You decide...

[source: CarJunky]

Jeep pickups in the 60's carried the Gladiator name, however the roots of the vehicle go back to the 50's and the military Jeep Truck. The Gladiator Concept brings a Wrangler front end married to a small cab with an extended 7 foot cargo deck and the visual effect makes this look a neat, small and sturdy addition to the Jeep line.

Powered by a 2.8 liter Liberty power plant, the Gladiator packs all the punch it needs to assert itself on the performance front. What we particularly liked about this automobile is the extended wheel base which runs to 138 inches providing plenty of room for the spare which is side mounted. Four wheel drive is of course fitted as you'd expect, and both front and rear axles are fixed and solid. The rear axle however, uses coil dampers rather having leaf springs fitted as these would not allow for the short overhang to the rear.

The chassis for the Gladiator uses a stretched Dodge Dakota to get the extended wheelbase but the overall visual impact of the automobile remains in proportion. The truck has that angular militaristic luck, no curves and blunt lines but then if you are in the market for beauty you wouldn't be looking at a pickup.

When this becomes available in early 2008 it is going to make an excellent addition to the Jeep range and carries the idea of the Jeep Truck far better than anything else in the Jeep range which seem to be aimed at the suburbanites doing the school run rather than something that will be going off road and getting dirty. The Gladiator looks exactly as you would expect a Jeep to look and in this regard it gets top grade.

The small cab, which has been extended slightly from the Wrangler, has a rear hinged door for access on the passenger side only however on the drivers side the rear site is accessible by a small 2 foot square “dog door”. Given the small cab, the rear passenger accommodation is probably better suited for the mutt rather than people as it is tight and suitable only for small children rather than adults and when you see it you'll probably ask why they bothered at all.

The rear window is powered and can wind down which is a neat feature normally found on a Midgate vehicle but to give you an idea of the rear space available, when the seat squab is tucked down and the rear bulkhead is stowed you only add another foot to the cargo space. It seems a great deal of neat engineering but for little effect.

Overall this is a truck that is going to sell well, it has the looks and the feel of a real Jeep and is a lot more practical for the town than a Hummer, but still will handle off-road as it should. The biggest plus with this vehicle is that hopefully it heralds a return to what a Jeep ought to look like.

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2008 Jeep Liberty Production Woes

The redesigned 2008 Jeep Liberty will go into production one week later than planned at the Toledo Jeep Assembly complex.

The new version of the vehicle was scheduled to begin rolling off the assembly line Monday. However, a DaimlerChrysler AG spokesman said changes in the plant for the new model will delay production until July 23.

The plant that builds the Liberty and the Dodge Nitro shut down production July 2, and the plant that builds the Jeep Wrangler closed a week later. Both facilities are expected to resume making vehicles on July 23.

The new Liberty is to be on dealers’ lots by fall.

[source: Toledo Blade]

2008 Jeep Liberty Press Release

2008 Jeep® Liberty – All-new From the Ground Up

* All-new 2008 Jeep® Liberty remains true to its legendary 4x4 heritage

* Improved on-road ride and handling with new independent front and new five-link rear suspension systems

* All-new Jeep classic exterior styling, functional interior space and upgraded amenities designed to broaden its appeal to consumers

* Industry-exclusive Sky Slider™ full-open canvas roof

The Jeep® Liberty has remained a leader in the mid-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) market since its introduction in 2002. The popular mid-size SUV gives off-road enthusiasts and owners their own sense of personal freedom and capability that only defines the Jeep brand.

All-new from the ground up for 2008, the Jeep Liberty remains true to its legendary 4x4 heritage by offering two Jeep Trail Rated® four-wheel-drive systems – Command-Trac® and the all-new Selec-Trac® II. On-road ride and handling have been improved and refined with the new independent front suspension, new five-link rear suspension and rack-and-pinion steering.

The Liberty's exterior has been redesigned, and takes on a more rugged, classic Jeep look that is sure to captivate the attention of current Jeep Liberty owners and broaden its consumer appeal. Inside, cargo and storage space increases and seat comfort improves. Making its world debut is the new Sky Slider™ full-open canvas roof, an industry-exclusive; giving the Jeep Liberty that "Only in a Jeep" open-air experience. Remote start, rain-sensing wipers, memory seats and mirrors, and express up/down windows are added to the vehicle's ever-growing list of available features and options. There are two models – Jeep Liberty Sport and Jeep Liberty Limited.

"The all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty stands out from the competition by offering customers classic Jeep design, two four-wheel-drive systems, refined on-road ride and handling, cargo and utility, as well as features that are not typically found on vehicles in the mid-size SUV segment," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Global Marketing, Chrysler Group.

The all-new Jeep Liberty is designed to appeal to customers who are looking for Jeep 4x4 capability as well as comfort and convenience. It is targeted to young couples and new families, as well as professional, young single men and women between 30 and 40 years of age, balanced male to female. Jeep Liberty owners will balance day-to-day responsibilities with their passion for adventure as well as the outdoors. They are athletic, and pursue activities that combine their various interests with their active lifestyle. The Jeep Liberty will be available at Jeep dealerships starting in the third quarter of 2007.

Engineering
The all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty offers a balance of off-road capability and on-road refinement.

* All-new independent front suspension, all-new five-link rear suspension, and a power rack-and-pinion steering system contribute to the all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty's blend of on-road ride comfort and nimble, confidence-inspiring handling

* Two four-wheel-drive systems – all-new Selec-Trac II, full-time four-wheel-drive system and Command-Trac, a part-time four-wheel-drive system – both are Jeep Trail Rated

* The 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine provides the 2008 Jeep Liberty with competitive peak power and torque while providing smooth, quiet operation and proven durability. It produces 210 hp (157 kW) @ 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N•m) of torque @ 4,000 rpm. Fuel economy has been improved and now achieves an estimated *16 city (18 mpg using 2007 EPA standards), and *22 mpg on the highway (23 mpg based on 2007 EPA standards).

* Two transmissions are offered on the Jeep Liberty in the United States: a six-speed manual transmission and a four-speed automatic transmission

* The 2008 Jeep Liberty was designed and engineered under the Chrysler Development System (CDS), the comprehensive, coordinated and disciplined product creation process that improves quality and speed-to-market while reducing costs and encouraging practical innovation in new products

Design
In its first redesign since its introduction, the all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty embraces its roots by taking on a more rugged, classic Jeep design that is guaranteed to strengthen its draw to current owners and broaden its appeal to a new audience.

* Jeep classic exterior styling and functional interior space are designed to broaden its consumer appeal

* Industry-exclusive Sky Slider full-open canvas roof brings "Only in a Jeep" open-air experience to mid-size SUV market

* Cargo capacity increases and front and rear passengers will notice the improved seat comfort along with added space


Safety and Security
The 2008 Jeep Liberty has a full range of active and passive safety systems. Among the vehicle's standard equipment are Electronic Stability Program, Electronic Roll Mitigation, All-speed Traction Control, Brake Assist, advanced anti-lock brakes, rain sensing wipers, Tire Pressure Monitoring, and side-curtain air bags.

Technology
The 2008 Jeep Liberty offers the MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System™ a completely integrated audio, navigation, entertainment and hands-free communication system. MyGIG allows customers to use touch screen or voice commands to control features, and includes a 20-gigabyte hard drive where music and photos can be stored. The system also includes a voice-memo recorder feature. MyGIG supports real-time traffic information, available through SIRIUS Satellite Radio, and can provide an alternate drive route based on traffic conditions. All of these functions can be controlled through voice commands and by utilizing a touch screen.

SIRIUS Satellite Radio provides U.S. customers with 130 channels, including 100 percent commercial-free music, sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic and weather. And the UConnect® hands-free communication system uses Bluetooth® technology to provide wireless communication between the customer's compatible mobile phone and the vehicle's on-board receiver.

Manufacturing
The 2008 Jeep Liberty will be built using Chrysler Group's modern production process, called the Flexible Manufacturing Strategy (FMS). FMS allows multiple products to be produced at one plant in a time-efficient manner that are a higher quality for lower cost. At the core of the new manufacturing process is the heavy use of robots at the Toledo (Ohio) North Assembly Plant.

2008 Jeep Liberty Unveiled!

AutoBlog got the jump on everyone and released many photos and info about the all new 2008 Jeep Liberty. Oh and guess what.... its not really a "grocery getter" anymore!!

Here's a snip:

Jeep has released informaiton about its all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty, which for the first time comes available with a unique canvas roof called the Sky Slider. The Sky Slider can be slid completely forward or back or anywhere in between to reveal the open sky to all occupants. It's like owning a Wrangler without as deep a commitment to open air motoring. Obviously, the Liberty looks completely new for 2008 wearing a more traditional slab-sided Jeep design than the first generation, which was often panned for being too round and soft. The new shape opens up additional interior space, although that rear load height seems awfully high to us.



The '08 Liberty is powered by the same 3.7L V6 producing 210 hp and 235 ft-lbs. of torque, available with either a 6-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. Thus, we expect this new ute that has grown in most dimensions to be a tick or two slower than the current model. It should handle better, however, thanks to an all-new independant front suspension and new five-link rear suspension. Jeep faithful shouldn't fret, however, as the Liberty's Trail Rating is in tact, regardless of whether you choose the hard core Selec-Trac II full-time four-wheel-drive system or Command-Trac part-time four-wheel-drive system.

Click here for the 2008 Jeep Liberty gallery.

Chrysler First To Offer Sirius Backseat TV

SIRIUS Backseat TV™ will be offered exclusively in 2008 Model Year Chrysler Group vehicles Debuts on all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans, including the Jeep Commander and the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Three channels of live, family TV programming from Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network delivered directly to the vehicle Builds on Chrysler Group's innovative technology leadership, which includes MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System, Swivel 'n Go™ seat system, Chill Zone™ cooled beverage storage bin, heated and cooled cup holder, articulating liftgate speakers, LOAD 'N GO™ slide-out cargo load floor and removable/rechargeable cargo light.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE:

New York, Mar 29, 2007 - Chrysler Group and SIRIUS Satellite Radio announced today that Chrysler Group will be the exclusive auto manufacturer to offer SIRIUS Backseat TV™ in its vehicle lineup in the 2008 model year.
For the first time, live TV programming from the most trusted brands in family entertainment-Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network-will be available through SIRIUS Backseat TV in select 2008 model Chrysler, Jeep® and Dodge vehicles, beginning with the all-new 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans.

"Chrysler Group is committed to offering innovative technologies that are right for our customers," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President – Product Development, Chrysler Group. "SIRIUS Backseat TV makes its world debut in Chrysler Group's all-new 2008 minivans, combining with innovative features that include a dual DVD system that can play different media at the same time, MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System, and our unique Swivel 'n Go™ seat system, offering more options for families on the go. No one else in the marketplace offers their customers this combination of innovative technology."

SIRIUS Backseat TV features three channels of respected children's TV featuring many of the most well-known kids' programming, including Nickelodeon, Disney Channel and Cartoon Network. Rear-seat passengers will be able to watch shows such as Nickelodeon's "SpongeBob SquarePants," Disney Channel's "Cory in the House," and Cartoon Network's "Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends."

SIRIUS Backseat TV will also be available on the 2008 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Dodge Magnum, Jeep Commander and Jeep Grand Cherokee.

SIRIUS Backseat TV operates via an in-vehicle satellite video receiver and two small roof-mounted antennas. Programming is displayed on the vehicle's second- and/or third-row video screens, and channel name, program title and rating will be broadcast and displayed on the screen(s). For added flexibility, rear-seat passengers can enjoy SIRIUS Backseat TV while front-seat occupants listen to SIRIUS Satellite Radio. The system can be operated from either the rear-seat entertainment unit or the radio head unit. In addition, when the vehicle is in Park, programming can be displayed on the MyGIG screen for front-seat viewing.

SIRIUS Backseat TV is available for a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $470, which includes the first year of service, when packaged with Chrysler Group's Rear Seat Entertainment System and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. After the first year, SIRIUS Backseat TV is available for $7 per month when packaged with SIRIUS Satellite Radio ($12.95 per month).

"This innovative entertainment offering from SIRIUS adds to the 2008 Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan's long list of leading amenities for today's busy families," said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Marketing. "Along with a dual DVD system that plays different media at the same time, pinpoint LED lighting to read by, a table to play games or finish homework, a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic, power-sliding doors and liftgate, YES Essentials® cloth seats, Swivel 'n Go seating and our exclusive Stow 'n Go seating and storage system, Chrysler Group's minivans offer something every member of the family will enjoy during their journey."

2008 Grand Cherokee Facelift

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is in line for a facelift, and the folks over at Popular Mechanics have the photos to prove it. The mule in these pics sports very little camo up front, and nothing covering the rear, and yet it's still difficult to tell where the changes lie.


Up front, the headlights have been updated, with the outside light overlapping the inside light. The front bumper and the grille are also both revised. Out back, the taillights have been slightly changed and now feature amber turn signal lenses.


The 2008 Grand Cherokee will be getting the 3.0L Common Rail Diesel, which is sourced from foster parent Daimler-Benz. No word yet on whether Jeep will get the upgraded 290-hp 4.7L V8 that powers the 2008 Dakota, but we'll undoubtedly find out soon enough. The updated Grand Cherokee will be unveiled next week at the New York Auto Show, and we'll be on hand to chart the changes in person.

[Source: Popular Mechanics]