I Blame the JKU and Soccer Moms

Now before you go and accuse me of JK bashing, let me preface this by saying I've owned a JK longer than most readers. I bought mine in October 2006 before it even hit the showroom floor. I love it & I firmly believe it to be one of the most capable Jeeps ever made in stock form.

 What makes a Jeep Wrangler? Is it the round headlights? Maybe the 7 slot grill? The boxy profile? In my opinion it's a combination of all these things but the most important feature is the solid front axle. As soon as I saw that Congress was reviewing safety complaints regarding "death wobble", I knew I was witnessing the possible death of this Wrangler staple. Why do I blame the JKU? As capable as it is, it's also the most comfortable and the 4 door makes it perfect for families. I should know, it was the reason I bought mine. Originally my Jeep was for my wife. She got tired of me complaining about wanting another Jeep. She finally conceded and gave me hers in trade for a minivan. Winner, winner, chicken dinner! Back on topic. Because of the comfort, added space and the modern conveniences like power windows and MyGig systems, there were more Unlimiteds sold than any other Wrangler. Not only that, but the new owners were hanging on to them. In the past, once the newness wore off and the "inconvenience" set in, it would get traded in on a more "urban friendly" vehicle.

Death-wobble has always been present in solid in solid axle vehicles. Once that vehicle is lifted, the chances are even greater that the driver will experience it. It is a correctable problem, but poorly made lift kits and ignorance on how to fix the problem made it more prevalent. Jeep can say they are doing it for the decrease weight, and I'm sure that is a factor to satisfy EPA needs, but the other reason is to boost sales. I don't fault Jeep for that. It's a business and the bottom line is important. But to sacrifice the solid front axle really will be the death nail for the Wrangler as the most capable, mass-produced, off road vehicle in production.

And you thought square headlights were a problem.

http://www.autoguide.com/auto-news/2013/10/2016-jeep-wrangler-may-ditch-solid-axles.html

Future Jeep Models and Updates

Larry P. Vellequette  
Automotive News
September 2, 2013 - 12:01 am ET

Jeep will add two nameplates in the next three years: a subcompact crossover made in Europe and a three-row luxury SUV built in Detroit.

Only a few models and top trim levels of Jeep's future vehicles will retain full off-road capabilities. The vehicles will be designed primarily for regular roads, with better ride and comfort....(more)

Source: Automotive News

Jeep Wrangler Polar Edition

All-new Jeep® Wrangler Polar Edition Debuts at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

The new Jeep® Wrangler Polar special-edition model is making its début at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, further enhancing the offerings of exclusive limited-edition trim levels designed around the iconic Wrangler. Reinforcing the breadth of the Jeep brand, the 2014 Jeep vehicle range available to date will bask in the spotlights of the prestigious German exposition alongside the new Wrangler Polar.

Jeep Wrangler Polar: the new Limited-Edition model of the iconic Jeep Wrangler celebrates winter driving 4x4 capability

• Special edition features new front grille with Black accents, hard spare-tyre cover, body-colour hardtop, aggressive 18” polished Gloss Black alloy wheels and Polar White interior finishes
• Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential for challenging the most extreme routes and the most demanding driving conditions in any weather
• Available in the first quarter of 2014 for two-door Wrangler and four-door Wrangler Unlimited, powered by the 2.8-litre turbo diesel or 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine
   

September 3, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - In order to highlight the most adventurous soul and legendary 4x4 capabilities of the iconic Jeep Wrangler, the new limited-edition, customised Wrangler Polar model will be revealed on the Jeep stand in Frankfurt in the four-door Wrangler Unlimited configuration, and will boast an all-new Hydro Blue exterior colour matched to a Black interior.

On the heels of the success of recently launched – and sold out – limited-edition customisations of Jeep Wrangler, this new special model sports a unique trim level dedicated to all those enthusiasts searching for adventure and absolute performance in extreme driving conditions. Featuring exclusive styling cues, 18” Gloss Black alloy wheels, body-colour hardtop and original Mopar® accessories, the new Jeep Wrangler Polar will be available in Europe in the first quarter of 2014, in both two- and four-door versions, powered by the brilliant 2.8-litre turbo diesel or the powerful 3.6-litre petrol engine.

Jeep Wrangler Polar takes its cue from the severe climate and extreme conditions that characterise the Antarctic region. The "Polar" badge located on the vehicle’s side next to the front fender flares shows off the 78° S and 106° E coordinates that correspond to the location of Vostok in Antarctica: the exact point where the absolute severest temperature in the world was recorded at -89.2° C (-128.56° F).

Thus the theme of winter that in the past inspired the creation of highly appreciated special series now returns in the making of this new special-edition model. The winter theme is what lies behind the choice of the Wrangler Polar’s unique styling cues suggesting class-leading capabilities and the use of distinctive interior colours and details that recall features from the Antarctic region.

The new Jeep Wrangler Polar was designed to express the freedom of going beyond the known limits to venture into unexplored territories: an experience that only Wrangler enthusiasts can enjoy, thanks to the reliability and safety granted by a vehicle featuring benchmark technology and unmatched off-road expertise achieved in more than seventy years of history. With its hostile routes and severe climate, the Antarctic region offers the driving conditions that the iconic Jeep Wrangler was engineered to conquer.

Based on the Jeep Wrangler Sahara model, the exterior of the new Wrangler Polar boasts unique features that contribute to distinguish it aesthetically from all the other models in the Jeep lineup. First of all, the new front grille, featuring unique Gloss Black accents on the lamp throats, and the new hard spare-tyre cover are both new styling cues introduced specifically for this limited-edition model. Further exterior appointments characterizing the Wrangler Polar are the Powerdome hood and the body-colour hardtop with deep-tint sunscreen glass. A Gloss Black Jeep logo above the front grille and Gloss Black 18" alloy wheels enhance the distinctive look of the vehicle. Completing the exterior appointment of the new Jeep Wrangler Polar special-edition model is the unique, three-colour hood decal, featuring the outline of mountains, and the black fuel-filler door from Mopar.

The interior features Black leather seats enhanced by Pearl White accent stitching and “Polar” logo embroidered on the upper portion of the backrests. Standard equipment also includes heated front seats and a black leather-wrapped steering wheel with Pearl White stitching and high-gloss Ceramic White painted bezels. Pearl White accent stitching is found also on the armrests and floor console lid. The passenger-side dashboard grab bar and dashboard vent rings are finished in high-gloss Ceramic White to create the contrasting effect of the light on Antarctic glaciers.

The exclusive cabin of the Jeep Wrangler Polar special edition also features an all-new cluster overlay with rings painted high-gloss Ceramic White and surrounding a blue instrument background with “Polar” logo. Mopar tread-pattern slush mats complete the interior appointments of the new Wrangler Polar.

In addition to the all-new Hydro Blue colour that adds to the unique look of the vehicle displayed in Frankfurt, the Jeep Wrangler Polar special-edition model is also available in Billet Silver Metallic and Bright White exterior colours.

Engineered to take on the most challenging off-road trails, Jeep Wrangler Polar is equipped with the Dana 30 front axle and powerful Dana 44 rear axle. Legendary Wrangler capability is achieved through the standard Command-Trac NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. In order to handle any off-road track in utmost safety, the new Wrangler Polar model comes standard with the Trac-Lok anti-spin rear differential. This particular differential replaces the manual rear-axle locker and is a torque-sensitive mechanical unit that works to maintain traction when travelling on slippery or rough road surfaces, such as on sand, gravel, snow or ice. Trac-Lok automatically distributes the available torque to the rear wheel with the most traction, thus helping to reduce wheel spin caused by lack of traction in the other rear wheel.

The standard equipment for on-board comfort includes automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated controls, heated front seats, height-adjustable driver seat, Electronic Vehicle Information Centre (EVIC) and cruise control.

Optional equipment available on Jeep Wrangler Polar is the Dual Top configuration that offers the possibility to have both the Sunrider® soft top and the Freedom TopTM hardtop options in one package. A further optional feature is the Polar Pack 1 special package offering front side air bags, UConnectTM multi-media infotainment and navigation system with 6.5-inch touchscreen, 40-gigabyte hard disk, USB compatibility, AUX port and DVD player.

The new limited-edition model will be powered by the efficient 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine matched to an automatic or manual transmission, or by the 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine paired to the automatic gearbox. The 2.8-litre CRD engine delivers 200 hp (147 kW) of power at 3,600 rpm and 460 Nm of torque at 1,600 – 2,600 rpm when paired to the five-speed automatic transmission. On models with a six-speed manual gearbox, the 2.8-litre engine delivers 200 hp and 410 Nm of torque at 2,600 – 3,200 rpm. The 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine of the Wrangler range, available in selected markets on this special series in addition to the 2.8-litre CRD engine, delivers 284 hp (209 kW) and 347 Nm of torque and is paired to the five-speed automatic transmission.

For more than seventy years, the Jeep brand has been the benchmark for an entire category of vehicles in terms of performance and versatility. Jeep Wrangler has been and remains the most famous model in the Jeep range worldwide. A brand icon, Wrangler has always been able to ensure its customers a unique degree of freedom thanks to its ability to master the most extreme off-road trails in utmost safety.

With a 52 cm longer wheelbase and a larger cabin that can comfortably accommodate five passengers, Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is the evolution of the classic Wrangler. Jeep Wrangler Unlimited combines the exceptional Jeep off-road capabilities with the comfort and versatility of an everyday car, turning the off-road champion into a four-door 4x4 convertible.

Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited are available in the Sport, Sahara and Rubicon trim levels and are all powered by the 2.8-litre turbo diesel Common-Rail engine featuring Stop/Start technology. The 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine is available only on the Sahara model of both Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited.

The Jeep Stand in FrankfurtJeep brand is in Frankfurt to confirm its vocation as an all-terrain brand and its being a point of reference in terms of personality, comfort and technology. Located inside Hall 6, the 770-square-metre exhibition area shows the multiple terrains where Jeep vehicles can express their character: in the city as well as on extreme off-road trails. Everything on the stand is an expression of power and refinement. The dunes, outlined through the modern resin pavement that distinguishes the corner of the new Jeep Wrangler Polar special edition-model, suggest the extraordinary off-road capabilities of the iconic Wrangler. The building located in the background of the stand and the three columns in its middle ideally reproduce the skyline of a contemporary US metropolis in order to pay tribute to the American origin of the brand and to highlight the ability to be a protagonist also in the city.

The new Jeep Grand Cherokee stands out in the centre of an area set up as a living room and finished with an elegant hardwood flooring that expresses classic harmony and modernity at the same time. Completing the range and emphasising the combination between off-road capabilities and urban vocation, the refreshed 2014 Jeep Compass is showcased in the centre of the stand.

On a large screen placed on the stand’s background wall, videos will show the public the newest features and technological content recently introduced on the Jeep models. A dedicated area of the stand will host the merchandising corner where visitors can buy the exclusive accessories and apparel of the Jeep lifestyle collection.

Alongside the new Jeep Wrangler Polar special-edition model, the stand will host the 2014 Jeep line-up available to date. In a space enhanced by the welcoming and refined atmosphere of a living room, the public will be able to get to know the new Jeep Grand Cherokee, the brand’s flagship displayed in its top-of-the-range Summit trim level and boasting a Deep Auburn exterior and refined Grand Canyon Brown Natura Plus leather interior. The Grand Cherokee Summit model will be showcased beside the elegant Grand Cherokee Overland, featuring a White exterior and Indigo Blue Vesuvio interior and customised with exclusive accessories created by Mopar - the Fiat and Chrysler Group division in charge of Parts & Service and Customer Care – including a retractable trailer hitch, cargo area liner and door sill guard with illuminated Jeep logo.

Both Grand Cherokee models are powered by the 3.0-litre V-6 turbo diesel engine fitted with MultiJet II technology and producing 250 hp (184 kW) and 570 Nm of torque.

A dedicated corner of the stand will present to the public the high-performance Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT model. The most powerful and high-speed Jeep vehicle ever boasts a Deep Cherry Red exterior and a Sepia colour Laguna leather interior. Equipped with the powerful HEMI® 6.4-litre V-8 engine producing 468 hp (344 kW) at 6,250 rpm and 624 Nm of torque at 4,100 rpm and featuring Fuel Saver technology for reduced fuel consumption and emissions, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT achieves performance of absolute reference: 0-100 km/h in 5 seconds, top speed of 257 km/h, braking from 100-0 km/h in 35 metres.

Two 2014 versions of the legendary Jeep Wrangler will be displayed in the area of the stand where the special resin-treated pavement with beige colouring creates the particular effect of dunes. The elegant four-door Wrangler Unlimited Sahara model, powered by the 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine producing 200 hp, is showcased in Billet Silver and features a body-colour hardtop and Black leather interior. The second Wrangler vehicle is the Rubicon – the most extreme and capable off-road vehicle in the Wrangler range – and is displayed in the two-door version showing off a Flame Red exterior, Black interior and a special Mopar customization.

In order to add a ‘specialized’ look to the Rubicon trim level of the iconic Wrangler, the ‘Moparized’ Wrangler Rubicon model features a light bar, satin black rock rails and a half door kit with mirrors. Also the cabin boasts a special Mopar customization resulting from the application of a special trim kit including Flame Red interior bezels. Fully painted mid Gloss Black 17" alloy wheels, body-coloured spare-tyre cover, sun bonnet and Black fuel filler door with Jeep logo complete the look of the ‘Moparized’ Rubicon model displayed on the Jeep stand, further enhancing the unique personality of the iconic Wrangler.

Equipped with front and rear Dana 44 axles, Wrangler Rubicon’s unmatched off-road capabilities are achieved through the Jeep part-time four-wheel-drive system that receives power through a Rock-Trac NV241 two-speed transfer case with a 4.0:1 low-range gear ratio, as well as through Tru-Lock electronic front- and rear-axle lockers and the electronic-disconnecting front stabilizer bar – called the Active Sway Bar System – for additional wheel travel when traversing the toughest trails.

Lastly, two 2014 Jeep Compass vehicles will be hosted in the centre of the Jeep stand in Frankfurt. The compact SUV of the Jeep range, recently refreshed and launched as a 2014 model year on the European market last summer, will be displayed in its top-of-the-range trim level, the Limited, equipped with the efficient 2.2-litre turbo diesel engine delivering 163 hp (120 kW). A Brilliant Black exterior combined with new Saddle Brown leather interior will deck out the Compass model in the Frankfurt spotlights, featuring also a molded cargo tray and a stainless door sill kit with Compass logo, both from Mopar. A Granite Crystal bodywork with Dark Slate Gray leather interior will characterise the second Limited vehicle of the compact Jeep SUV on display on the Jeep stand.

Through illustrative materials and dedicated publications handed out at the stand, visitors will be introduced to the products of FGA Capital, a finance company specialising in the automotive sector. The finance company is operative in all the major European markets, and in Germany with FGA Bank, with only one mission: to support the sales of all Fiat Group Automobiles brand vehicles by offering innovative financial products with high added-value services targeted to the dealership network, private customers and companies.

Carmello Anthony & DJ Whoo Kid's Wrangler commercial

NBA star Carmello Anthony and DJ Whoo Kid star in the new Jeep Wrangler "The Return" commercials.

British Company Plans For Spec Ops Jeep

PARIS — A British company took the classic Jeep Wrangler and militarized it in hopes of selling it to foreign armies unveiling its special forces variant Monday here at Eurosatory 2012.

Jankel started out selling sports cars in the 1950s and then specialized limousines to the ultra rich until 15 years ago when their clientele started dying off. Since then, they’ve entered the military market and haven’t looked back.

The company partnered with Chrysler, builder of Jeep, in 2008 to help it sell the iconic American Jeep to foreign armies. Now, they look to challenge Mercedes Benz and Land Rover to supply Europe’s armies with their future tactical wheeled fleets. It’s Europe’s answer to America’s Humvee.

Jankel’s hope is that European armies squeezed by shrinking budgets will look to the cheaper Jeep versus Mercedes Benz. Ghana and Uruguay have already bought variants of the Jeep J8 family of vehicles for UN missions.

Switzerland has started to test Jankel’s personnel and cargo carrier variant. Jeep J8 features six variants to include the light patrol and border patrol; personnel carrier; cargo and communications; military armored; ambulance; and pickup/chassis cab.

The Jeeps feature seats U.S. soldiers should recognize. Jankel’s has installed their blast limiting attenuation seats into vehicles like the Oshkosh Mine Resistant Ambush Protected All Terrain Vehicle the U.S. Army drives in Afghanistan.

The special forces variant called the Pegasus is the sexiest member of the family. It is named after the Pegasus Bridge crossing the Caen Canal the British 6th Airborne Division wrenched from the Germans in the invasion of Normandy in World War II. Lets just say Newman might have met a different fate at the end of Jurassic Park if he was driving this Jeep variant with two .50 caliber machine guns mounted to the Jeep’s roof and backseat.

Pegasus was built to load inside a CH-47 Chinook with the ability to unload it in 15 seconds. The Jeep is powered by a direct injection, common rail, turbo charged, intercooled diesel engine. The 24 volt electrical system features one NATO jump socket with two USB sockets.

Pegasus built the frame to fit inside the Chinook. The frame is 201 inches long, 79 inches wide, 72 inches tall with an 11 inch ground clearance. It has a curb weight of 6,610 pounds and a potential payload of 3,310 pounds.

The off road capabilities of the Pegasus have been beefed up to take on the stress of a special operations capability set. It can scale a 60% gradient and a 40%  side slope with the driver only.

Pegasus can carry four special operators and maybe a fifth in a pinch. Unit commanders can add an extended range fuel tank as well as underslung airlift solutions.

Lorne Stoddart, a commercial manager for Jankel, said they have targeted seven countries interested in Pegasus. He offered Holland as an example of one country who will have requirements to buy a vehicle like Pegasus.

Andrew Jankel, Jankel’s chairman, said his company chose not to bid for the U.S. Special Operations Command’s Ground Mobility Vehicle program because of the constantly changing requirements. He would prefer to let the BAE Systems and General Dynamics of the world fight that out.

Of course, if Congress can’t get its act together and avoid sequestration, then all bets are off and U.S. special operators might soon find themselves inside the Pegasus.

– Mike Hoffman

Source: www.defensetech.org
Read more: http://defensetech.org/2012/06/11/brits-militarize-jeep-wrangler-for-spec-ops-duty/#ixzz1xg9UU1i8 
Defense.org 

2010 Wrangler Recall

DETROIT — Chrysler is recalling nearly 87,000 Jeep Wranglers in the U.S., Canada and elsewhere due to a risk of fires.

The recall affects only Wranglers from the 2010 model year that have automatic transmissions and were built before July 14, 2010, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in documents posted Saturday on its website.

Debris can get caught between a plate that protects the transmission and the catalytic converter, causing a fire. A catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system and uses heat and precious metals to control pollution.

Chrysler knows of at least 14 complaints of fires caused by the problem with 2010 Wranglers. The company says it doesn't know of any injuries. It said debris can get trapped when the SUVs are driven off-road or through tall brush.

Chrysler, which makes the classic Wrangler and other Jeeps, will fix the problem free of charge by replacing the plate with a bar so debris doesn't get caught.

The recall affects about 68,000 Wranglers in the U.S., 6,000 in Canada, 1,500 in Mexico and about 11,000 in other countries, Chrysler spokesman Eric Mayne said. Chrysler will contact all the owners by mail. Recall work is expected to begin this month.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration also checked Wranglers from the 2007 through 2012 model years and determined that only the 2010 models had the debris problem. Mayne said the 2010 Wranglers had a transmission plate and catalytic converter that were configured differently than the Wranglers from the other model years.

NHTSA said in documents that it had received 14 complaints of Wrangler fires from the other model years, but Mayne said there was no pattern or common cause in those fires.

Source: Huffington Post

Jeep's Moab Six

 Jeep always seems to develop some of the coolest concepts. I would love to see each one of these make it to production but especially the J-12 and the FC. That FC would make a incredible expedition vehicle for touring the park system in the US and traveling abroad. Even more so if they would make it in a 4 door or "club cab" variety. Now...on to the press release.

Jeep® and Mopar Unveil Six New Vehicles for the 46th Annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari

All vehicles feature an array of Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories

• Jeep® Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Concept adds even more legendary Jeep 4x4 capability
• Jeep Wrangler Apache introduces new Mopar 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 conversion kit
• Mighty FC Concept features Mopar portal axles; harkens back to Jeep Forward Control models of 1950s and 1960s
• Jeep J-12 Concept: extended version of Mopar JK-8 conversion kit
• Mopar-accessorized Jeep Wrangler showcases many of the more than 250 Mopar offerings available for Wrangler
• Jeep Wrangler Traildozer: extreme 37-inch tires and another interpretation of a V-8 Wrangler
• Mopar creates new off-road division to develop Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories

March 27, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Jeep® and Mopar are ready for a week of wheeling in Moab.

The brands have created six new vehicles – all featuring a host of Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories – for the annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. Now in its 46th year and taking place March 31 – April 8, the Easter Jeep Safari will be attended by thousands of die-hard off-road enthusiasts looking to enjoy a week of wheeling on some of the country’s most renowned and challenging trails. Mopar also announced the creation of an off-road division that will create Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories.

“We’re delighted to showcase six new vehicles to our loyal Jeep fans at this year’s Moab Easter Jeep Safari,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The Jeep Safari has long been a great way for Jeep to connect with its core audience. We look forward to spending the week demonstrating our latest potential production and customization ideas and gathering instant feedback from the most knowledgeable 4x4 enthusiasts in the world.”

To create these new vehicles, Jeep teamed with Mopar, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year and offers more than 1,000 accessories and performance parts for Jeep vehicles.

“Mopar is tapping into a growing trend among extreme Jeep enthusiasts who want even more power and capability on the trail,” said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLC’s service, parts and customer-care brand. “This year, Mopar is pushing the envelope in this arena by offering our customers new Pro 60 portal axles and a new HEMI conversion kit, which we will showcase in these new vehicles. In addition, to further maximize our presence in the off-road market, we are creating a Mopar Off-Road division to develop Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories.”

Since 2002, Jeep and Mopar have teamed to create more than 30 unique concept vehicles for enthusiasts who attend the popular Easter Jeep Safari.

Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories, New Mopar Off-road DivisionJeep engineers, working closely with Mopar’s new off-road division, will create authentic parts and accessories for Jeep vehicles. New products from the group will be called Jeep Authentic Parts and Accessories. Each part and accessory will be specifically designed, built and quality-tested in order to meet strict Jeep specifications and fulfill the Jeep brand’s requirements for 4x4 capability, craftsmanship and versatility.

2012 Jeep Wrangler Apache from Mopar




Jeep enthusiasts have been asking for a V-8 powered Jeep HEMI Wrangler, and Mopar is coming through. Debuting at the Easter Jeep Safari will be the new Mopar 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine conversion kit specifically for the Jeep Wrangler. Producing approximately 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque to the rear wheels, the Mopar V-8 conversion kit gives Jeep enthusiasts an unprecedented blend of power and capability. 

Available this summer, the Mopar Wrangler V-8 conversion kit initially will mate to Chrysler Group’s W5A580 five-speed automatic transmission, and eventually to the six-speed manual transmission that drives the 2012 production Wrangler.

Other performance parts on the Jeep Wrangler Apache are Mopar Pro 60 5.13 front and rear axles, a 4.5-inch Stage 3 long arm lift kit and off-road bead-lock wheels. Aesthetic and functional modifications include high-clearance flat fenders, rock rails, front and rear half-door kits, a Stinger front bumper, a Warn 9.5ti XP winch, Katzkin leather seats, a locking center console box and a Mopar branded interior.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Concept

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is well known for its benchmark off-road capability, courtesy of its Quadra-Lift™ air suspension, Selec-Terrain™ traction control system, Off-Road Adventure packages, tow/recovery hooks tested to twice the vehicle’s Gross Vehicle Weight, and class-leading 4x4 systems – including Jeep’s Quadra-Drive® II system that includes a rear Electronic Limited-slip Differential (ELSD), delivering industry-leading tractive capability.

Already the most awarded SUV ever over its lifetime compared to any other SUV, the new Grand Cherokee Trailhawk concept takes the premium Jeep vehicle’s legendary off-road prowess to a new level, while providing a one-of-a-kind, more aggressive visual punch sure to delight Jeep enthusiasts.

Leading the off-road improvement are new 18-inch Goodyear Wrangler SilentArmor off-road tires – chosen to provide even more aggressive off-road performance combined with quiet highway manners – that are wrapped around new painted 5-spoke alloy Mineral Gray wheels. Grand Cherokee Trailhawk’s SilentArmor tires include additional side-wall protection that enhances durability and reduces road noise. Modified Mopar rock rails – engineered to fully protect the lower body from rugged rocky terrain – are included and add to the functional off-road capability.

Visually, while the vehicle is featured in Stone White, a Mineral Gray and Red theme is highlighted throughout. Specifically, the grille surround, lower front applique, mirror caps and rear light bar join the wheels in Mineral Gray, while contrasting in eye-catching Red are the upper grille mesh, front and rear tow hooks, Jeep logos on wheel center caps and bolt holes in the alloy wheels. A Red trim line outlines a matte black hood applique that is utilized to reduce glare during technical off-road maneuvers.

Other unique touches include black headlamp surrounds, black exterior front and rear badging, Red “Trail Rated” badges on the front fenders and a unique “Trailhawk” badge on the rear tailgate.

Jeep Mighty FC Concept

The Jeep Forward Control was built from 1956 to 1965 and offered a clever packaging solution.
It kept overall length at a minimum for maneuverability but maintained a full-length cargo box for utility. For 2012, Jeep has created a modern version of this classic: the Jeep Mighty FC concept.

To create the Jeep Mighty FC concept, the design team started with a 2012 Wrangler Rubicon and repositioned the cabin over and ahead of the front axle, lengthened the wheelbase, and added a custom built drop-side cargo box. The cab utilizes a roof from the Mopar JK-8 conversion kit, as well as a custom-designed front clip. The Wrangler-based interior has been enhanced with bold, heavy-duty Katzkin leather and a unique color scheme. The cargo area is handled by a full-width, drop-side tray-style bed that measures more than eight feet in length.

Off-road function is dramatically improved with the addition of Mopar’s new Portal Axle set. These offset axles offer the greatest amount of ground clearance without requiring excessive suspension lift.

Mopar’s Front Portal Axle (8-lug, part number P5155670) is available at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $12,500, and the Rear Portal Axle’s (8-lug, part number P5155671) MSRP is $11,000.

The axles are controlled with King coil-over assemblies along with beefy Teraflex control arms and track bars. Traction is handled by massive 40-inch tires mounted on custom Hutchinson 17-inch beadlock wheels.

Other Jeep Mighty FC highlights include King coil-over reservoir shocks, Hanson bumpers, a Warn 16.5 winch and a Corsa stainless steel exhaust system.



Jeep J-12 Concept

The Jeep J-12 concept is essentially an extended version of Mopar’s recently introduced JK-8 pickup conversion kit for the Jeep Wrangler. With a new 2012 Wrangler Unlimited as the starting point, the rear of the vehicle’s frame is extended 18 inches, allowing the spare tire to be relocated under the bed floor and making the cargo box a full six feet in length. A custom hood and front fender set was created as a nod to aficionados of the beloved Jeep Gladiator series trucks.

Off-road muscle has been improved with the addition of the new Mopar three-inch suspension lift kit, as well as Teraflex sway bars controlling ARB air-locker equipped Dynatrac D-44 and D-60 axle assemblies. Traction is handled through classic 36-inch tires mounted on 16-inch steel wheels.

The cabin of the J-12 concept has been “dressed down” in support of a basic truck theme, with the carpet being replaced by rugged truck bed liner, and the bucket seats re-crafted into a modern version of a bench seat, trimmed in white with a whimsical plaid pattern.

Further highlights include a Mopar fuel-filler door, Mopar slush mats, Tom Woods custom driveshafts and Katzkin seat trim.

2012 Jeep Wrangler Traildozer Concept

To prep are the Jeep Wrangler Traildozer for Moab’s toughest trails, Jeep Design worked closely with the American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) engineering team to bring it to life. Starting with a new Dozer Yellow 2012 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, the team added a bolt-in 470 horsepower 6.4-liter HEMI V-8 engine mated to a Getrag 238 six-speed manual transmission. Power runs through Rubicon-specific Dana 44 axles equipped with 4:10 gears and electronic locking differentials.

To clear the 37-inch Mickey Thompson Baja Claw radials mounted on Mopar Classic five-spoke wheels,
an AEV Dualsport RS 3.5-inch suspension lift was installed. For severe off-road body protection, Mopar premium front and rear bumpers and rear corner guards were added. Additional items include a Mopar performance heat reduction hood, Mopar half-door kit and a Mopar/Warn 9.5 Cti winch.

Jeep Wrangler Traildozer’s interior includes an AEV ‘F-1’ leather seat trim kit and Mopar slush mats
.

Jeep® Brand Launches ‘Jeep Arctic Yeti Dig’ Sweepstakes

• Grand Prize winner will receive a 2012 Jeep® Wrangler Arctic edition
• Six sweepstake contestants will attend the ‘2012 Winter X Games 16’ held January 26-29 in Aspen, Colo.
• Participants can enter the ‘Jeep Arctic Yeti Dig’ sweepstakes via the Jeep Brand’s Facebook, Twitter or Blog sites

December 20, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - The Jeep® brand would like to send one lucky person home from the “2012 Winter X Games 16” with a new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Arctic edition. The brand kicked off the “Jeep Arctic Yeti Dig” sweepstakes on the Jeep Facebook page (www.facebook.com/jeep), Twitter (www.twitter.com/Jeep) and blog (http://blog.jeep.com) sites. Six sweepstakes participants will be randomly selected to attend the Winter X games and on Friday, Jan. 27, will dig in a giant pile of snow to find the “Jeep Yeti.” The first to find it will win an all-new Jeep Wrangler Arctic. The sweepstakes runs through Tuesday, Jan. 3.

“The extreme winter conditions of the arctic are the inspiration behind the new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Arctic edition,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The new Wrangler Arctic edition features a unique winter-themed exterior and interior design and the ‘Jeep Arctic Yeti Dig’ at the ‘2012 Winter X Games 16’ is the perfect setting for one of our Jeep fans and followers to win one of these vehicles for their very own.”

There are three ways to enter the sweepstakes:

• Facebook (www.facebook.com/jeep) – “Like” the brand and visit the sweepstakes page to submit a registration form and play the Jeep Arctic Yeti Dig game to receive entrance to the sweepstakes. Participants can receive up to three entries per day and an opportunity to double their entries by sharing the sweepstakes with their Facebook friends.
• Twitter (www.twitter.com/Jeep) – Follow “@Jeep” and, when prompted, tweet back to the brand (include the Jeep handle “@Jeep” and #yetidig). Participants will receive one sweepstakes entry, per a 24-hour time period, for their tweet during the promotion period.
• Jeep Blog (http://blog.jeep.com) – Visit the Jeep Blog and comment on the post at http://blog.jeep.com/2011/12/15/arctic-yeti-dig/ (include full name and email) and automatically receive one entry into the sweepstakes.

Two people from Facebook, Twitter and the Jeep blog will be randomly selected to attend the games with a guest and participate in the snow dig for the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Arctic edition.

For more information and complete sweepstakes rules visit,https://chrysler.ignitesocialmedia.com/fb/jeep/yetidig/yetiRules.html. The sweepstakes is for U. S. residents only.

2012 Jeep Wrangler Arctic
Based on the Wrangler Sahara model, the Arctic’s winter theme is immediately recognizable. Available colors are Winter Chill, Bright Silver and Bright White. Exterior features include a body-color hardtop and fender flares, “Arctic” badges on the front fenders, a “Yeti Footprint” decal over part of the driver’s side fender and hood, black hood decal and Mopar® black fuel filler door and taillamp guards.

Jeep Wrangler Arctic also offers an aggressive Wrangler Rubicon tire and wheel package, with unique semi-gloss black 17-inch wheels shod with 32-inch tires.

Inside, Wrangler Arctic’s seats are black Tectonic fabric with Polar White accents and orange accent stitching. Front seats are heated and feature an “Arctic” logo in the seat back. Accent stitching can also be found on the steering wheel, arm rest and console lid. Door trim and nets are accented in orange, and all grab handles and dashboard vent rings are finished in Polar White trim.

Mopar tread pattern slush mats with white “Jeep” lettering complete the Wrangler Arctic package.

Jeep JK-8 Kit Sales Exceeded Expectations

Since releasing the JK-8 conversion kits, Chrysler says it's production lines have been surprised by the number dealers have been requesting.  The forecasted between 200 to 300 kits for this years, however dealers have requested 400.  This is great news because it shows that the demand really is there.  MOPAR President Pietro Gorlier was careful to say they need "balance the excitement of those blogging with real (sales) numbers."  Gorlier goes on to say that when the next generation of Wrangler is released (expected 2015) a pickup will be considered.

Source:
Wards Auto

UPDATE-NHTSA Closes The Case On Clocksprings

We have updated details on the clockspring recall.  Although the recall only affects right hand drive Jeep Wranglers, Chrysler is extending the warranty for lefties.  2007 left hand drive Wrangler clocksprings will now be covered up to 10 years or 150,000 miles.

The NHTSA investigated about 180 cases of airbag warning lights because of faulty clocksprings.  Chrysler Group LLC said that 82 of 181 complaints were from right-hand drive Wranglers.  These Jeeps were mainly used by postal carriers in dusty, rural environments.  Chrysler recalled the 5,334 right-hand drive Jeeps from model years 2008-2012 last month, and agreed to replace the units with a housing that is less susceptible to contaminants.  

Source:
The Detroit News

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon named "Four Wheeler of the Year".

Four Wheeler magazine has named the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon "Four Wheeler of the Year" due to it's "universal do-all capability allowing it to outperform all the other competing 4x4's."

Kaaaaaahn!

No....not that Kahn.

A. Kahn Design.  They have designed a "military edition" Wrangler.  According to Motor Ward, this military inspired Jeep can be yours for a mere £35,875 ($56,130).  What this gets you is the cool metallic grey paint, LED headlights and those wheels.  They also report that the bumpers and sidesteps have been revamped, however those look like the stock European ones to me.  The interior is festooned with red leather interior, aluminum pedals and a custom gauge cluster.  If you're wondering where the "military" in this military edition is.....you're not alone.

Source:

Motor Ward

The Rockness Monster headbutts a tree.

My buddy Mike hates trees. Just can't stand them. In fact he's been known to go out of his way just to let one know his true feelings. Joking aside, he is actually a very experienced and responsible off roader, but today just wan't one of his days. Enjoy.

2012 Wrangler wins best the ALG residual value award

ALG (the industry benchmark for residual values and depreciation data) has awarded the 2012 Jeep Wrangler with the best residual value for Best Compact Utility Vehicle.  This is awarded to the vehicles that are expected to retain the highest percentage of their original price after three years.  The 2012 Wrangler has also been awarded Kelley Blue Book's "Best Resale Value Award: 'Top 10' & 'Compact Utility Vehicle," Petersen's Off Road "4x4 Of The Year," 2011 SEMA's "Hottest 4x4 SUV," Active Lifestyle Vehicle's "Best Value Off_Road," and the Texas Auto Writers Association's "Mid-Size SUV of Texas."

ALG is based in Santa Barbara California and publishes the Automotive Lease Guide and is one of the leading providers of data and consulting services to the automotive industry.

source:
Chrysler Media Release

Jeep Liberty and Wrangler Arctic Press Release

Chrysler released this press release today detailing the Arctic editions of the 2012 Wrangler and Liberty.  Both Jeeps will have unique paint, exterior accents and interior features making them immediately recognizable.

Jeep releases MW3 pricing

Jeep has recently announced the pricing for the Call of Duty MW3 JK.  Follow this link for the USA Today report.