Auburn Hills, Michigan - Chrysler has issued a recall on an estimated 296,550 vehicles to reprogram an electronic control unit.
The fix will eliminate any chance of what the company called "a momentary delay in braking when coasting up a hill".
Chrysler spokesman Max Gates said the problem was supplier-related. While the problem could only occur under limited and infrequent circumstances, "a customer who experiences any delay in braking should take the vehicle to a certified dealer for inspection".
Chrysler was aware of one such accident that caused no injuries.
The potentially affected vehicles are 157 000 2006/07 Jeep Grand Cherokee and Commander SUV's, 90 000 2007 Jeep Wranglers and 49 000 2007 Dodge Nitro SUV's. - AFP
Chrysler LLC today unveiled the Jeep J8 multipurpose vehicle at the 2007 Defence Systems & Equipment International (DSEi) military trade show, making the legendary vehicle available for reenlistment in active military service. “Jeep vehicles made their original debut in 1941 for military duty, and have built their reputation with more than 65 years as the world’s benchmark for off-road capability and versatility for civilian and military vehicles,” said Thomas Hausch, Vice President – International Sales, Chrysler LLC.
“The new Jeep J8 marks the brand’s return to vehicle production for military and civilian government use – the same capability that makes the Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited famous also makes the Jeep J8 a truly multipurpose vehicle.”
With the all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited as the starting point, Jeep engineers increased its capability and versatility. The frame of the Wrangler Unlimited is reinforced for increased ruggedness and to allow greater payloads – up to a maximum of 1,339 kg (2,952 lbs.). Axles, brakes and suspension components are engineered specifically for more demanding military and civilian government use, including utilising a leaf-spring suspension system in the rear. The J8’s Command-Trac® four-wheel drive system allows maximum versatility and performance in both on- and off-road conditions.
The Jeep J8 is powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that produces 118 kW (158 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb.-ft.) of torque, providing towing capability of up to 3,500 kg (7,716 lbs.). The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The J8 also features a unique air-intake system with special filtration and a hood-mounted snorkel that enables the J8 to wade in water up to 762 mm (30 in.) deep and tackle sandstorm conditions for up to five hours.
Available as a two-door with an extended pickup bed for personnel or equipment transport, or a four-door multipurpose vehicle, it may be produced with numerous vehicle-body and seating configurations in either right-hand- or left-hand-drive.
While not designed for front-line combat operations, the Jeep J8 is fully armour capable and excels in a variety of duties ranging from command vehicle to troop/cargo carrier, ambulance, communications vehicle and other duties – also making it suitable for civilian government applications. Heavy-duty bumpers with tow eyes allow the Jeep J8 to be easily transported by aeroplane or helicopter.
The Jeep J8 will be produced in a Chrysler LLC joint-venture facility in Cairo, Egypt, and will be available in spring 2008.
Voting for the 2007 Jeep 4x4 Geocaching Challenge July Travel Bug photos has begun. July's photo goal was "American Heritage." Support your fellow geocachers by visiting the photo gallery and nominating your favorite.
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.
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.
Jeep Puts Group in Driver’s Seat to Mark Milestone
American Forces Press Service 2007-07-16
WASHINGTON, July 16, 2007 – Jeep is partnering with the New York Mets major league baseball team, a New York television station and New York auto dealers associations to help put both a U.S. servicemember and a support-letter writer each behind the wheel of a new vehicle.
During a Military Appreciation Day pre-game ceremony at Shea Stadium in Queens, N.Y., yesterday, a Tri-State Jeep Dealers Association representative presented Operation Gratitude with symbolic keys to a 2007 Jeep Patriot Limited.
The “keys” went directly into the troop-support group’s 250,000th care package. And the Jeep, donated by the carmaker in celebration of the group’s milestone, will be driven home by a lucky servicemember upon his or her return to the states.
Operation Gratitude is a member of America Supports You, a Defense Department program connecting citizens and corporations with military personnel and their families serving at home and abroad.
“We are proud and humbled to contribute to a great organization like Operation Gratitude that does so much good in support of our troops,” said Eric Neilsen, president of the New York Dealer Association. “The Jeep was originally developed to serve our military, and we are very pleased to be able to continue this tradition in a small way.”
A U.S. Postal Service representative was on hand to make sure the special package made it safely to the military post office at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Carolyn Blashek, Operation Gratitude’s founder, said.
“The package is very much on its way,” she added. “It left on the 5 p.m. flight last night out of Newark (N.J.) flying next to the pilot the whole way.”
In further support of Operation Gratitude's mission to express the American public’s appreciation, New York’s CW11/WPIX television station, a part of Tribune Broadcasting, the New York Mets baseball team, and Jeep launched a letter-writing campaign that kicked off yesterday.
The campaign will run through Sept. 17, when one lucky writer’s letter will be randomly chosen and sent to Operation Gratitude's 250,000th package recipient. The package recipient and the winning letter-writer both will be announced during a Sept. 30 pre-game ceremony at Shea Stadium in Queens, N.Y., Blashek said.
Though that winning letter will undoubtedly make the servicemember smile, it should also please the letter writer. He or she also will drive home a 2007 Jeep Patriot Limited.
Letters can be submitted through the CW11/WPIX Web site. Each letter received through the site will serve as a contest entry, Blashek said.
During yesterday’s military appreciation event at Shea Stadium, fans also donated “cartons and cartons of items” to Operation Gratitude. The donations, including phone cards, DVDs, CDs, Beanie Babies, disposable cameras, batteries, baseball caps, and lip balm, will find their way into more care packages that will end up in troops’ hands.
“Fan outpouring was great,” Blashek said. “We collected cartons and cartons of items, and the letters are already flowing into the Web site.”
(From Operation Gratitude and New York Mets news releases.)
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.
The all new Jeep Patriot is selling like hot cakes. In the latest survey of the hottest selling vehicles by J.D. Power's Power Information Network, the Patriot SUV was the seventh fastest-selling vehicle in the U.S. last month. On average, Jeep dealers kept the Patriot on lots fewer then 20 days, while the industry average is roughly 60. The Patriot tied the Saturn SKY for 7th place, marking its placeholder in the list of 10. For the first time in months, 3 domestic vehicles made the list of 10, which was a big surprise.
It might be tempting to say the Patriot is hot because of incentives. But according to J.D. Power, only 7% of the buyers are taking advantage of the average Patriot incentive ($920), and the retail price on this Jeep is roughly the same ($20,907) as when the SUV went on sale in March.
All of this indicates the Patriot is connecting with buyers for the right reason. It's a good looking SUV with updated interior styling. The Jeep, despite it's problems in recent years, still has cache with buyers. And this summer, the Patriot is on fire.
The “All Girl Action Sports, Music and Empowerment Festival,” Boardfest, is proud to announce its newest partners – Skechers, Jeep and Aquafina – to its already action-packed Labor Day weekend festival. The fourth annual Boardfest will be held at the Huntington Beach Pier, Sept. 1 to 3.
Where action sports, music and life collide, Boardfest ’07 showcases something for every level of involvement, synergistically weaving surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding competitions, surfing and skateboarding clinics, makeovers, empowerment activities, interactive exhibits, music, motivational speakers and attractions.
The SKECHERS Concert Stage & Entertainment Center at Boardfest will feature live entertainment, fashion shows, yoga clinics, dance performers and special guest appearances. The iconic company also will host a sampling center near the stage.
The Jeep Snow Zone showcases world-class female riders negotiating a steep, two-story high custom-built platform in pursuit of “best trick” and “open jam” prizes. Located adjacent to the pier and within a snow industry village, more than 40 tons of fresh snow will fall daily.
AQUAFINA also joins Boardfest as the Official Water and will feature the latest addition to the AQUAFINA family—AQUAFINA ALIVE. In addition to an AQUAFINA kiosk and misting tent, Boardfest spectators and participants will receive product samples. A partnership with KTLA/the CW Network will include advertorial/editorial and a retail component (TBD).
In just three short years Boardfest has grown from a local festival with limited appeal to a regional event with national & international impact. Popular among tweens, teens and young adults of both sexes, more than 100,000 spectators attended Boardfest ’06, most staying in the venue an average of two hours or more.
Offering myriad sponsorship, sampling and mobile marketing opportunities, Boardfest’s oceanfront location boasts top-notch amenities with world-class retailers, restaurants and resorts within walking distance. Other Boardfest partners/sponsors include KTLA/the CW network and Mountain High.
Boardfest is produced by MKM, a Huntington Beach-based firm that specializes in non-traditional public relations, experiential marketing and special event production. For nearly 20 years, MKM has promoted world-class sporting events, music festivals, athletes, products and brands. Clients include IMG, TOMY, USA Water Polo, Reactor Watches and The Buddy Group.
Chrysler said it was recalling more than 80,000 2007 Jeep Wrangler and Dodge Nitro sport-utility vehicles to correct a problem that could make the engine stall, The Associated Press reported.
Chrysler said the recalled vehicles might experience a power interruption, which could lead to a short engine stall (although the engine would immediately restart if the vehicle was in motion).
To affect a fix, dealers will reprogram a power module to remove the potential for a brief interruption of electrical power to the instrument panel and the engine.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into the Wrangler last May after receiving reports of engine stalling. Chrysler said the agency has received about 180 complaints of engine stalling in Wrangler and Nitro vehicles.
There has been one accident linked to the issue, the company said, but no injuries have been reported. Chrysler will notify owners about the recall later this week and the work will be completed at no cost to consumers, the AP said.
DETROIT (AP) -- Apparently, the Jeep Wrangler is rugged -- and capable of hauling an entire division out of the swamp.
The popular two- and four-door sport utility is coming off its best-ever May while buoying a slumping Jeep division beset by declining sales.
According to Autodata Corp., Jeep sold 12,332 Wranglers in May, up 114 percent compared to the same month last year. For the year, 54,699 Wranglers have been sold, an 85 percent increase compared to last year.
Strong Wrangler sales also helped fuel an overall 20 percent May sales increase for Jeep and a 12 percent year-to-date increase compared to last year.
"The Jeep Wrangler is the icon of the brand," said Chrysler Group spokesman Markus Mainka, adding that no incentives have been offered since the vehicle was redesigned and released last September from a retooled Ohio plant.
Based on Autodata figures, the Wrangler accounted for about 29 percent of Jeep's total May vehicle sales and 27 percent of the division's 2007 sales to date. Wrangler's strong showing last month also boosted the Chrysler Group division's market share of U.S. light vehicles from 2.4 percent to 2.7 percent last month.
For 2007, Jeep's market share increased from 2.6 percent to 3.0 percent.
Industry analyst Alex Rosten said redesigning the Wrangler was the key to Jeep's recent success.
"Now they can't make enough of them," said Rosten, an analyst for EdmundsObserver.com. "It's always better to expand existing product lines than create a new one."
But the Wrangler's success contrasts with slumping sales for other Jeep products.
According to Autodata, every other Jeep vehicle for which comparative statistics were available posted negative marks, led by the Liberty's 39 percent sales decline compared with May 2006, and its 28 percent year-to-date decline compared to last year.
Grand Cherokee sales fell 18 percent in May and 20 percent for the year to date, while Jeep Commander sales fell 9.7 percent in May and 10 percent so far this year.
According to Jeep officials, May sales for the Compass totaled 3,735, while 4,505 Patriots were sold. In 2007, Jeep has sold 18,812 Compass models and 10,336 Patriots. Both vehicles are in their first year of production.
"We develop each vehicle to appeal to a different kind of customer," said Chrysler spokesman Dan Bodene.
He said introducing the Compass and Patriot was an attempt to enter new markets by leveraging the company's recognizable nameplate. Bodene said Jeep will work harder to deliver the message about its core products and may offer new incentives.
Rosten said that might not be enough. He said the Grand Cherokee is "too old," while new models like the Compass and Patriot are "too redundant."
"Jeep has shot itself in the foot by releasing the Patriot and the Compass," he said. "By doing so, they have cannibalized other products, like the Liberty."
On Tuesday, Jeep canceled its scheduled announcement of a new advertising campaign developed by Cutwater, a San Francisco-based advertising agency. Chrysler officials said the postponement until later this week was due to a scheduling conflict and had nothing to do with recently released sales numbers.
Chrysler Group announced a new tagline for the Jeep brand - here's the press release:
The Jeep® brand announced today it is launching a new brand advertising campaign on July 1 that will take advantage of the brand's expanded seven-vehicle lineup, its 66-year heritage of 4x4 off-road capability and the inherent joy of driving Jeep vehicles. "Have fun out there. Jeep®" is the new brand advertising tag line.
The new ad campaign is designed to strengthen the already-legendary image of the brand and bring more buyers into the Jeep owner base, one of the most loyal in the industry. While the campaign's primary message is that driving the brand's sport-utility vehicles provides a unique-to-Jeep fun, it will also emphasize that, with an expanded lineup of seven Jeep vehicles, "Now there's a Jeep vehicle for you," said John Plecha, Director - Jeep Marketing & Global Communications.
New Rallye Package from Mopar® Is Available for 2007 Jeep® Compass
Rallye Package outfits Jeep® Compass from head to toe with cool exterior accents
Mopar® Body kit adds Rallye car toughness to athletic Jeep Compass styling
Rallye Package available on Jeep Compass models sold in United States and international markets
The Jeep® brand continues its expansion into new territory and into the world of rallye car toughness with a new body kit from Mopar®. For a limited time, a new Rallye Package featuring Authentic Jeep Accessories from Mopar will be available for both 4x2 and 4x4 2007 Jeep Compass and Jeep Compass Limited models. Mopar is the Chrysler Group's original equipment parts manufacturer. Arriving in U.S. and international markets in late 2006, the Jeep Compass is an all-new compact sport-utility vehicle that combines classic Jeep cues with contemporary lines. The Mopar Rallye Package takes this sleek style another step, wrapping Jeep Compass' modern design in an aggressive toughness.
'The Rallye Package from Mopar enhances the sleek, sophisticated and expressive styling and appearance of the Jeep Compass,' said John Plecha, Director – Jeep Marketing and Global Communications. 'It embellishes its modern Jeep appeal and gives the Compass a character all its own.'
The Jeep Compass Rallye Package – available in Black, Silver, Inferno Red, Jeep Green and Steel Blue – includes:
Unique 18-inch x 7-inch black-painted aluminum wheels with machined edges and chrome center caps
Roof-mounted rear spoiler that adds performance-oriented styling
Auxiliary driving lights with covers that feature the Jeep logo
Bright exhaust tips that reinforce the Compass' forceful personality
Chrome Rallye badge
Mopar body kit featuring front and rear fascia overlay appliqués, lower honeycomb front fascia grille and side sill lower panels and door appliqués
The U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Jeep Compass Rallye Package is $1,985 (Sport) and $1,850 (Limited). Limited production began in April for the United States and international markets. Pre-orders are being taken now.
The Jeep Compass Rallye edition debuted as a concept vehicle at the 2006 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Jeep Compass competes in the compact sport-utility segment, which is expected to grow considerably in the next decade, giving the Jeep brand the opportunity to grow with it. Annual compact SUV volume in the United States for the 2006 calendar year was 520,045 units, up 34 percent from 387,828 units in 2005. The compact SUV segment is expected to continue to grow to 814,000 units by 2016. This is a great opportunity for the Jeep brand to attract new buyers who want a stylish, fuel-efficient, affordable, safe and capable SUV.
2007 Jeep King of the Mountain Host Sites Announced
From Official Press Release:
VAIL, Colo. – June 18, 2007 – The Jeep® King of the Mountain Series (www.jeepsports.com) today announced host sites for professional mountain bike racing’s most prestigious event, with the chosen venues offering a decidedly western flavor. Three of the most cycling friendly, talent laden states in the U.S. – Utah, California and Colorado – are set to entertain the top ranked racers in the sport during the 2007 Mountain Biking World Professional Championships.
The Jeep King of the Mountain Series features 16 of the world’s top riders competing head-to-head to capture the coveted title of World Professional Champion. In addition, the athletes will be battling for a share of the richest cash payout in the sport, topping $100,000, and the keys to a new 2008 Jeep vehicle.
World Professional Champions are crowned based on a system of cumulative points earned throughout the Jeep King of the Mountain Series, which will include three races to be held from August to September 2007. This year the event has scheduled races at three highly regarded scenic outdoor havens in the Rocky Mountains and Western U.S., each offering a unique backdrop and world-class recreational facilities:
--Saturday, Aug. 4 – Canyons Resort (Park City, Utah) --Saturday, Aug. 18 – Madonna Inn (San Luis Obispo, Calif.) --Saturday, Sept. 1 – Beaver Creek Resort (Beaver Creek, Colo.)
“We are thrilled to bring the Jeep King of the Mountain Series to world-class resorts in Park City, Utah; San Luis Obispo, Calif.; and Beaver Creek, Colo.,” said Henry Schneidman, president of Vail, Colo.-based Eclipse Television & Sports Marketing, producers of the series.
“These sites each offer tremendous facilities, full-season amenities and, most importantly, an avid cycling fan base eager to support this sport and the tremendous athletes we’re able to attract from across the globe.”
In addition to an elite field of pre-qualified national and international professional racers, each event will add two local racers as well as two wildcard participants based on UCI and NORBA standings. Information regarding local and wild-card entry into the Jeep King of the Mountain Series will be available at www.jeepsports.com prior to each race.
This year’s event will again be staged on the innovative Y-Cross racecourse, which combines the two most dramatic and popular forms of mountain bike racing into one unique discipline. Competitors begin the race on separate sides of the course (the prongs of the Y) before converging midway into a single course (the crux of the Y). In the bottom section, racers must navigate a series of banked turns, tabletops, step-down jumps and rollers before the track climaxes with an all-out sprint to the finish. The daredevil racecourse has been described as the ultimate format for mountain bike racing, as the overall winners must have a diverse set of skills to win the coveted title of World Professional Champion.
Select athletes participating in the Jeep King of the Mountain Series will be selected to offer their expertise in the design of the racecourses in Utah, California and Colorado. The “athlete inspired” racecourse design concept proved to be a tremendous success in 2006, with legendary racers Mike King and Brian Lopes helping create some of the most demanding and exciting layouts in event history.
Each race of the 2007 Mountain Biking World Professional Championships will be televised to a national broadcast audience on CBS Sports, representing the most expansive coverage of professional mountain bike racing in recent history.
Legends are immortal and in the automotive world that is especially true for the Jeep. Wrangler, the 'mother' of all off-road vehicles. To customize the latest version of the American 4x4 and to make it even more exclusive STARTECH is developing an innovative and exclusive accessories program - for the short wheelbase and the new long wheelbase version.
In a first step STARTECH offers custom-tailored light-alloy wheels, some initial exterior modifications and exclusive interior options.
The polished STARTECH Monostar IV 9Jx20 light-alloy wheels attract attention at first sight. The striking five-spoke wheels lend the new Jeep. Wrangler a more exclusive appearance. But that's not all: Mounted with sporty on- and off-road tires in size 285/50 R 20 front and back they give the SUV even more agile handling characteristics while at the same time improving driving safety.
While the STARTECH design program for the new Wrangler is still under development, the first stainless-steel components will be available shortly. Sturdy tubular side guards for short and long wheelbase models protect the rocker panels of the Jeep and partially hide the Jeep's frame from view. The spare wheel cover with high-gloss stainless-steel ring adds the finishing touch.
The new Wrangler generation for the first time includes a model with diesel engine. The STARTECH motor engineers are currently developing the STARTECH SD 4T tuning module for the 2.8-liter (171 cu. in.) common-rail turbodiesel engine.
STARTECH sport exhausts will soon be available for all engine and body variants of the Jeep. The fully stainless-steel exhausts feature one characteristic oval chrome tailpipe each on the right and left, and produce a more sonorous engine sound, while at the same time optimizing power yield.
The interior of the Jeep can also be upgraded stylishly with STARTECH accessories: Highly polished scuff plates welcome driver and passengers, and the ergonomically shaped STARTECH sport steering wheel adds to the ambiance.
Additional customization requests can be fulfilled by the company-own STARTECH upholstery shop. Partial and fully leather interiors made from especially soft yet durable Mastik leather satisfy even the most discriminating tastes.
Smokestacks at the old Jeep plant have a date with a wrecking ball next week, but historic preservationists who sought to save the Toledo landmark have won a partial victory.
Owner DaimlerChrysler AG plans to keep one of the three stacks carrying the name "Overland," which is one of the city's last visible links to the Willys-Overland automotive empire of the early 20th century.
They are visible to motorists on I-75, and are one of Toledo's most recognized landmarks. They are circa 1920 smokestacks.
Demolition of the other two stacks, which are attached to the factory's former power plant, will begin Monday morning. Company officials have invited reporters and elected officials to an event at 10 a.m. in a park at Willys Parkway and Hillcrest Avenue that occupies the site of the factory's former test track.
The firm has provided few details about what will take place, but advised news organizations that it will be their "final chance to capture the three smokestacks together against (the) Toledo skyline."
continued.... The plant had been America's oldest operating car factory, but is now mostly demolished. Production of Jeep Wranglers moved to a new $2.1 billion supplier park nearby.
Also Monday, the company will announce a plan to sell individual bricks from the demolished smokestacks as souvenirs. Proceeds will go to charity.
Katie Zuchowski, a company spokesman in Auburn Hills, Mich., declined to confirm details of the event.
But Steve Katich, staff director for U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D.,Toledo), said he has been told that the company will keep one of the smokestacks.
“You are bidding on one of the worlds most custom jeeps ever built. This is an all aluminum body CJ-7 with a 500 hp Viper V-10 crate motor, 1-ton 5-speed NV-4500 trans, Dyna trac Dana 60 reverse pinion one ton axels with Detroit soft lockers front and rear with 411 gears.
A custom 2″x 4″ tube steel frame buy advanced frame works of California. Atlas twin stick transfer case 4.3 to 1 ratio, Wilwood front and rear disk brakes for stopping when your crusing at 140 mph. Custom Mickey Thompson Beed-lock wheels with 33″ nitto grappler tires. Jeep has a custom 25 Gallon gas tank with skid plate and in the tank electric fuel pump. Jeep has heavy duty power steering and power brakes. Dash is custom with all autometer guages with anodized aluminum bezels. All frame and cage is powder coated, Body has a $12,000.00 custom paint job.
Custom headers and Ron Davis 4 -core radiator to keep it running cool even in Arizona. Jeep has reverse shackels front and duel rancho 8000 gas shocks front and rear. Full 6-point cage with Beard suspension seats and shoulder belts. I am a metal fabricator by trade with over 29 years and a certified welder.
My buddy larry who helped me build it is a nuclear certified welder that worked for Hughes Aircraft and has over 30 years fabrication experience. It took us 1 year to build this Jeep and I spent just over $100,000.00 in parts alone. This Jeep was featured on the cover of JP magazine June 2004 issue with a 4 page article inside.”
DaimlerChrysler AG's 2007 Jeep Wrangler sport utility vehicles are being investigated by a U.S. safety agency after reports of engine stalling at highway speeds, Bloomberg News reported.
The probe may affect 35,000 vehicles, including two- and four-door models in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on its Web site. The agency said 53 complaints mostly involved highway speeds and included 12 cases with a loss of electrical power and lighting.
Have you had a similar problem with your 2007 Jeep Wrangler? If so, please make sure and get your Jeep to the dealership for service! Discuss this in the MoJeepin Forums.
Chrysler Sales Up 4% In May .... (only because of Jeep)
From Forbes:
DaimlerChrysler AG said Friday its U.S.-based Chrysler division's May U.S. sales rose on a jump in demand for Jeep brand models.
Overall, DaimlerChrysler sold 221,164 vehicles, up 3.9 percent from 212,882 in May 2006.
Adjusted for one additional selling day this May compared with last, DaimlerChrysler sales fell 0.1 percent.
Chrysler Group sales rose 4.3 percent to 199,393 from 191,261 in May 2006.
Sales of the division's Jeep brand vehicles increased 20 percent, as demand for its Wrangler model more than doubled to 12,332 vehicles. Sales of the brand's new Compass and Patriot models also offset lower demand for its Liberty, Grand Cherokee and Commander models.
Miller Lite, with the help of auto-customization guru and MTV's Pimp My Ride host "Mad Mike" Martin, this summer is giving away more than 125 Jeep(R) vehicles, including four that will be custom-designed by consumers via an interactive Miller Lite microsite.
Legal-drinking-age consumers can visit http://millerlite.com/ and in a few easy steps customize a "virtual" Jeep, which Mad Mike will sketch for them while providing witty and lively banter. Consumers can then submit their final custom ride for entry into a sweepstakes to win one of the four custom-designed 2007 Jeep Wrangler Saharas.
"Summer is all about fun, and we think partnering the always-entertaining 'Mad Mike' Martin with Jeep will be exciting for Miller Lite drinkers," said Rob Olejniczak, Miller's promotions director. "We believe it is the perfect combination: Giving consumers of Miller Lite, the ultimate light beer, the opportunity to win a Jeep, the ultimate summer sport-utility vehicle."
In addition to registering for the grand-prize giveaway, consumers can email their custom Jeep design to friends. They also can give Mad Mike a friend's phone number, and he will then leave a voicemail and text message inviting them to participate in the promotion. Once the contest is complete, behind-the-scenes webisodes will keep consumers engaged. Content will include the customization of the four Jeeps, interspersed with exclusive footage and appearances by Mad Mike.
In addition to the four Jeeps given away with Mad Mike's help, Miller Lite will give away 125 other Jeep Wrangler Saharas this summer through various consumer promotions. For more information, log onto http://www.millerlite.com/ or stop by the Miller Lite display at your nearest grocery store or liquor store.
Not only will the Jeep JT be revealed at the 2007 SEMA show later this year, but so will the Jeep Wrangler Ultimate. Not that the new four-door Wrangler Limited needs any more exposure (demand is currently outsripping supply for the popular configuration), but the Wrangler Limited takes that vehicle and adds some urban flair to make it more eye-catching to the valet crowd.
The Wrangler Ultimate gets the same rock-crawling hardware showcased on the JT Concept, which includes a 3-inch lift kit and 35-inch BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires, but also gets a set of handsome forged 18-inch aluminum wheels from Alcoa. The Jeep design team decided to dump the entire Mopar catalogue of accessories on the Wrangler Ultimate's exterior, which gets some fancy sparkle and shine from ts chrome fuel filler door, taillamp guards, tubular side steps, exterior mirrors, tow hooks, door handles, hood hinges, and overlays for the front fascia. The Liquid Charcoal Pearl Coat exterior paint color is not available from the factory, either.
The Wrangler Ultimate's interior also gets the show car treatment with seats upholstered in a mesh fabric and trimmed in dark slate gary Nappa/Province leather bound with a heavy black leather baseball stitch. There are additional orange trim pieces on the steering wheel, shift knob and passenger handlebar, while the floor shifter appears to have a wooden trim piece, as well. Again, don't expect the Wrangler Ultimate to be an option package anytime soon, but at least Jeep has proven that you can dress up its weekend warrior.
[Source: Jeep]
For more discussion and photos of the Jeep Wrangler Ultimate, be sure to check out the MoJeepin.com Forums!
From a Press Release: ZEELAND, MI -- (MARKET WIRE) -- May 23, 2007 -- Gentex Corporation (NASDAQ: GNTX), the leading supplier of automatic-dimming mirrors to the worldwide automotive industry, has announced that it is shipping interior auto-dimming mirrors for the 2007 Jeep Patriot. The Patriot is a compact SUV being sold in North America and other select markets.
Gentex auto-dimming mirrors automatically darken to reduce glare from the headlamps of vehicles approaching from the rear. The brighter the glare, the darker the mirrors become, making nighttime driving safer.
An auto-dimming base interior mirror is available as part of a "Driver Convenience Group" on the 2007 model year Patriot Limited trim level or with an optional UConnect® Hands-Free Communication system integrated in the Gentex interior mirror. The Sport E trim level offers the same auto-dimming mirror as part of an optional package.
"The Patriot is expected to attract a new group of vehicle buyers to the Jeep brand," said Gentex Senior Vice President, Enoch Jen. "Gentex is excited that Jeep is including our glare elimination and microphone technologies in their expanding product line."
Chrysler's Skunkwerks is really nothing more than a bunch of folks who use their spare time to make the kinds of vehicles they'd really like to build. That makes them just like a lot of us -- except that they have the full resources of Chrysler to pull from. One of their latest creations is the Jeep Wrangler JT, which is the Jeep pickup we've all been dreaming of. Built on a Wrangler Unlimited platform, keeps the Wrangler's engine and suspension, and adds a 5-foot bed, a 3-inch lift, a winch, and 35-inch tires. It will be making an appearance at SEMA later this year.
Autoblog got to drive it (around the parking lot), along with a few other cars sprung from the minds of Chrysler's gearheads. Look for a report and pics of the JT in Moab soon. And if you're wondering just what color that JT is, it's called Hearing Aid Beige.
FJ Cruiser Beats Jeep Wrangler Unlimited for SUV of the Year
The readers of ReviewCars.com recently picked the Toyota FJ Crusier as the 2007 4x4 of the year, over the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. What's surprising is that the new 2007 Jeep Compass even made the list in its infancy.
2007 Toyota FJ Cruiser won the hearts of the owners and enthusiasts. ReviewCars.com announced the winners of Top 10 Trucks and SUVs of the Year, and Toyota FJ Cruiser topped the list.
"FJ Cruiser is a surprise winner," said Edward Choi, President and Publisher of ReviewCars.com. "Given its fashionably quirky retro look, FJ Cruiser should have appealed to only a small group of people. But its significant off-road capabilities and everyday urban utilities brought a wide range of buyers to consider FJ Cruiser," said Choi.
Consumers especially liked FJ Cruiser's stocky body, easy to clean interior, exceptional throttle control, off-road capability and comfortable ride. Over half a million consumers' research and ratings behavior indicated that FJ Cruiser's scores were not only good, but also consistently good compared to other trucks and SUVs.
Jeep and Honda scored high as well, and they have multiple vehicles in the Top 10 list.
2007 Top 10 Trucks and SUVs of the Year are:
1. Toyota FJ Cruiser 2. Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 3. Acura MDX 4. Hyundai Santa Fe 5. Honda CR-V 6. Chevrolet Avalanche 7. Mazda CX-7 8. GMC Acadia 9. Jeep Compass 10. Honda Pilot
Even though you have been able to "pre-order" the Jeep Compass Rallye... now its available. For a little under $2,000.00, Mopar-branded body kit gives Jeep Compass a more aggressive look with unique wheels, rear spoiler and custom badging. Here is the part of the press release:
“The Rallye Package from Mopar enhances the sleek, sophisticated and expressive styling and appearance of the Jeep Compass,” said John Plecha, Director – Jeep Marketing and Global Communications. “It embellishes its modern Jeep appeal and gives the Compass a character all its own.”
The Jeep Compass Rallye Package – available in Black, Silver, Inferno Red, Jeep Green and Steel Blue – includes:
* Unique 18-inch x 7-inch black-painted aluminum wheels with machined edges and chrome center caps * Roof-mounted rear spoiler that adds performance-oriented styling * Auxiliary driving lights with covers that feature the Jeep logo * Bright exhaust tips that reinforce the Compass’ forceful personality * Chrome Rallye badge * Mopar body kit featuring front and rear fascia overlay appliqués, lower honeycomb front fascia grille and side sill lower panels and door appliqués
The U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Jeep Compass Rallye Package is $1,985 (Sport) and $1,850 (Limited). Limited production began in April for the United States and international markets. Pre-orders are being taken now.
Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited posted sales of 10,776 units, up 75 percent compared to April 2006 with 6,154 units. The Jeep Patriot continued to gain momentum and finished April with sales of 2,904 units, up 38 percent from March 2007. The vehicle is one of Chrysler Group's recently introduced fuel- efficient offerings that achieve 30 miles per gallon or better in highway driving.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened a preliminary investigation that could lead to the recall or 136,444 Jeep Commanders because the engine stalls unexpectedly.
Federal safety regulators have received 26 vehicle owner complaints “alleging incidents of engine stall while driving in a model year 2006 through 2007 Jeep Commander,” according to NHTSA documents.
Some of the consumers complaining to NHTSA told of repeated stalls at times with “simultaneous loss of some or all lighting systems including headlamps.”
Two stalls resulted in accidents, according to NHTSA.
DaimlerChrylser told the agency that engineers at the automaker have formed a task force to investigate the stalling problem with Jeep commanders.
NHTSA has opened its own engineering analysis to “assess the frequency, scope and potential safety consequences of the alleged defect.”
As reported by Detroit News, 50,000 Chrysler employees are trying to buy 70% of the ownership in the Chrysler Group.
"The head of the United Auto Workers said the union hasn't ruled out making an offer to buy the Chrysler Group, but experts are mixed on whether employee ownership makes sense for Chrysler.
In an interview Friday with WJR Radio in Detroit, UAW President Ron Gettelfinger said the union has reviewed a "very sketchy" proposal made earlier this month by a group of about 25 Chrysler employees in Toledo to acquire a 70 percent stake in Chrysler through an employee stock ownership plan, or ESOP, in exchange for health care concessions.
"Ever hear the statement 'all options are on the table?' " Gettelfinger responded when asked whether the UAW would bid for Chrysler. "We haven't ruled anything out."
We recently posted some news about the new EarthRoamer XV-JP, the sweet new camper design that encompasses a tent and all sorts of goodies. While we only had info on the exterior of the Jeep, we have now seen the interior pictures, and all we have to say is WOW! These guys are slick. They packed more into the back of a Jeep then we could ever imagine.
While you will find one picture below, make sure and check out all the pics! If anyone ends up getting this handy camper for their new JK, please let us know!
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.
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.
On the heels of announcing its sponsorship of Tim McGraw and Faith Hill’s “Soul2Soul Tour 2007,” the Jeep® brand confirmed today that McGraw will play a special concert at Camp Jeep on July 26 at the Oak Ridge Estate in Nelson County, Va., near Charlottesville.
Camp Jeep 2007, the brand’s annual “owner only” three-day mix of off-road driving and other family-friendly outdoor activities, will be held July 26-28.
Jeep Sued Over "Choose Your Own Adventure" Ad Campaign
As if we didn't see this coming... A Vermont publishing company has filed a lawsuit of Chrysler Jeeps new "Choose Your Own Adventure" ad campaign. Here are the details:
A children's book publisher filed suit against DaimlerChrysler AG, saying its new ad campaign for the Jeep Patriot infringes on the trademark of "Choose Your Own Adventure," a popular series of books.
The Jeep ads use the tagline: "Choose Your Adventure." A spokesman for Chrysler said he was shocked the suit was filed, and that the parties had been negotiating in hopes of reaching a settlement.
snip . . .
"What we feel is that Jeep is trying to piggyback on the really positive associations of adventure and opportunity and choice that the former fans -- the original fan base -- had associated with 'Choose Your Own Adventure,'" said Shannon Gilligan, president of Waitsfield-based Chooseco. "They're trying to imbue the Jeep Patriot with that."
Jason Vines, a spokesman for Auburn Hills, Mich.-based Chrysler Group, maker of the Jeep, Dodge and Chrysler brands, said the company -- which was served with a cease-and-desist request March 16 -- had offered to link the publisher's Web site to the Jeep site.
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."
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.
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.
Hot off the "squish and move" scene is the all new Jeep Patriot commercial. This one is about a group of buddies that are out camping and one wont wake up.... See what happens when he sleeps in late.
No vacuum cleaners here. He is a senior manager of Chrysler’s product design office who wants to upgrade Chrysler’s interiors.
From the article:”As Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles are redesigned or restyled, the interior will be upgraded. The first upgraded vehicles probably will be 2011 models, Dyson said.
Dyson said the automaker has been admiring the interiors of Audi, Volkswagen and a “newcomer.” And “we are quite impressed with what General Motors is doing,” he said.
He said the cost of interiors will rise, and that will mean cuts elsewhere in vehicle development.”
2011 models… sure sounds like the release date for the Chrysler Imperial.
From the article: “In the film — “The Way Beyond Trail,” which can be viewed at www.patriotadventure.com beginning Thursday — viewers can follow three characters as they search for a buried treasure. Those characters also will star in the 30-second TV spots.”
Take a look at the commerical and the website devoted to the Patriot marketing. Is Jeep getting the Patriot’s marketing message right? Or did they miss the mark like the last few iterations of the Jeeep Compass gimmicks.
DETROIT - Chrysler Group said on Friday it would recall over 489,000 vehicles, including recent models of the Jeep Liberty, Dodge Durango and its all-new Dodge Avenger sedan.
How does this effect the Jeep Liberty? Well, here's the scoop.
In a third recall action, the automaker said it would service up to 149,605 Jeep Liberty vehicles because of a problem with the blower motor in the air-conditioning system. Chrysler said that in some cases the motors could fail, particularly in hot weather.
That recall affects 2006 and 2007 model-year Jeep Liberty vehicles, Chrysler said.
One of country music's most celebrated love stories began with a date in a Jeep®. So when reigning first couple Tim McGraw and Faith Hill were looking for a sponsor for their Soul2Soul Tour 2007, the Jeep brand was an obvious choice.
During a press conference today at the Country Music Hall of Fame with McGraw and Hill, the Jeep brand announced that it will be the official presenting sponsor of their new North American tour, "Jeep presents Soul2Soul Tour 2007." The 33-concert tour will kick off in Omaha, Neb., on June 6 and will conclude in Anaheim, Calif., on Aug. 10.
McGraw and Hill explained the story of the "date Jeep." "In 1996 in State College, Penn., we were doing a show together. We took a ride in a borrowed Jeep and that's where we decided that we were going to be together and build a life together," said Hill during the press conference.
"Faith tracked down that Jeep and gave it to me for my birthday a couple of years ago," said McGraw.
"Tim and Faith have a story about how the Jeep brand has been part of their lives that's not unlike the thousands of stories we hear every year from Jeep owners all over the world," said John Plecha, Director - Jeep Brand Marketing and Global Communications. "As members of our Jeep family, it made perfect sense to blend our brands into a mutually beneficial partnership. We are very pleased to be associated with these two very talented artists who reach a broad audience much like the seven vehicles in the Jeep lineup."
Soul2Soul II made the history books as country music's highest grossing tour ever and was named Pollstar Magazine's "Major Tour of 2006," beating out nominees Madonna, Roger Waters, The Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Rolling Stones.
In addition to Jeep signage at every concert venue, McGraw and Hill's "Date Jeep," a red 1978 CJ-6, will travel with the tour along with a special "Soul2Soul" 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. While still in development, the next phases of the partnership will include online activities, special events and product placement.
AutoWeek is reporting that Chrysler Group is recalling more than 50,000 2007 cars and SUVs due to faulty anti-lock brake software. Included in the recall are: 2007 Jeep Wrangler, Compass, Patriot, Commander, Liberty and Grand Cherokee.
The specific vehicles were built in late 2006, so not every 2007 model needs to be serviced. The problem “could result in a loss of vehicle control and cause a crash without warning” according to a company warning.
This follows a recall last week of more than 86,000 2006 Dodge Ram pickups for faulty front-wheel bearings. The problem would present itself with noise and vibration and, if ignored, could cause the wheel to simply fall off, possibly causing a loss of vehicle control and a crash.
You can call Chrysler at (800) 853-1403 regarding either recall.
We all know Chrysler is having some problems these days... It seems as if some privately owned companies have their eye on the ill-fated auto maker. Here's a snip:
At least four private equity groups have been in preliminary talks with DaimlerChrysler about buying Chrysler, and could emerge as bidders in the auction for the German carmaker’s US subsidiary.
According to people familiar with the matter, Apollo Management, Blackstone, Carlyle, and Cerberus Capital Management - as well as several European firms - were contacted about their potential interest in acquiring Chrysler before last week’s announcement by DaimlerChrysler that “all options are on the table” for the unit. Those discussions continued after the announcement, these people said.
From the article: “The loss-making division of German-American car giant DaimlerChrysler said it will offer $70,000 lump sum early retirement deals to workers with 30 or more years of service and $100,000 buyout packages to those with at least one year of credited service.”
Just like the Jeep Compass, the all new 2007 Jeep Patriot gets its own off-roading video! (although it looks more like a Sunday drive down a gravel road... or is that dirt?)
The Cleveland Auto Show that opens to the public on Saturday at the I-X Center features a lot of bling, one-of-a-kind concept vehicles, the Jeep Trailhawk and advanced looks at 2008 models as well as vehicles you can buy now.
There will be more than 1,000 vehicles from 40 automakers on display, organizers said. Attendance at last year's show topped 648,000.
Other exhibits include Camp Jeep Cleveland, a 40,000-square-foot display that will let attendees drive a Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, Commander or Liberty on an off-road driving course that features a 16-foot hill climb.
If you aren't doing anything this weekend and you have time, go check out the Cleveland Auto Show. Write in and tell us what you thought!
No doubt about it. Strong and capable, the all-new 2007 Jeep Patriot is unmistakably Jeep, designed to appeal to compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) buyers who want classic Jeep styling with best-in-class off-road capability. Jeep Patriot is rugged, exuding the brand's key attributes of mastery, authenticity, freedom and adventure, while offering excellent fuel economy, interior flexibility and utility at a great value.
"Simple yet distinctive geometric forms and planar surfaces define Jeep Patriot's timeless proportions," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President - Design. "Combined, these features give Jeep Patriot its robust, strong, capable off-road image."
The reviews are starting to roll in for the 2008 Jeep Patriot. CarConnection.com posted a fairly good review over the weekend.
Here's a snippet or two:
In fact, the Patriot straddles the line between soft-roader and full SUV. The reality is that less than one in ten sport-ute owners will ever steer onto anything rougher than a gravel road. So for them, there's the basic version of the Patriot, Dubbed Freedom Drive 1, available in either 4x2 or 4x4 configuration and starting at an extremely competitive $14,985 (which includes destination charges).
For those who want something markedly more rugged, there's the official, trail-rated package, which boosts ground clearance by an inch, and adds such niceties as a tougher rear suspension, low-range transmission, skid plates, electronic stability program with hill-descent control, and a heavy-duty cooling system. This so-called Freedom Drive 2 package bumps the base price up to $19,175.
Continued...
Our biggest complaint was with the continuously variable transmission under extreme acceleration. Heading up steep hills, the engine would race to redline and hold there as vehicle speed caught up. This "motor boating" is a phenomenon common to CVT design, but with the Patriot powertrain, the result was an unpleasantly brash and raucous roar from under the hood. Under less aggressive driving, both engines were acceptably smooth and reasonably quiet.
The Patriot is pleasantly smooth and nimble in both on and off-road configurations. The added ride height of Freedom Drive 2 is barely noticeable in anything but the most aggressive driving conditions. Unless you like the more jellybean-like styling of the Compass, we find it hard to explain what the attraction would be to that soft-roader.
Who knows how the Jeep Patriot will fare with the hardcore Jeepers, but one thing is for sure...Its purely Jeep and the enthusiats everywhere will want to get their hands all over one.
