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As the facelifted Grand Cherokee hits Australian roads and trails, and the all-new Cherokee is readied for action in the USA, a smaller newcomer is more than just a pipe dream. The baby Jeep would sit below the existing Wrangler and Cherokee to provide a genuine alternative to baby SUVs including the upcoming youth-first Renault Captur and Subaru's city-centric XV.
"We want to continue to stretch the brand, and offer new models in markets where they are relevant. Like a smaller Jeep. People would always want a smaller Jeep," the head of international products and programs at Jeep, John Mrozowski reveals to Carsguide. He is in Australia for the local launch of the updated Grand Cherokee, and says that more urban Jeeps will join the range.
The upcoming Cherokee will also come with a 4x2 model and it has even been developed, for the first time, with an East-West engine layout because it shares the basic mechanical package of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta. "That's about being smart on how we evolve the product going forward. It (new Cherokee) is actually more capable, it's more fuel-effcient. The East-West layout allows more space for the passengers."
Mrozowski admits that the Fiat-Chrysler alliance is driving a number of major changes at Jeep and hints that it would be easier to do a compact Jeep for Gen-Y buyers thanks to access to baby cars - perhaps the 500L - from the Fiat family. But he pulls up short of any detail. "Future speculation? We want to continue to expand the brand," is all he says. "Are we investing more in the brand? Yes. It really is across the board."
But he stresses that future models need to stay true to Jeep's heritage while becoming more relevant in the 21st century. "We're not growing more dinosaurs. A smaller footprint is better from a carbon perspective, and also where the world is heading. "We have more people that believe in the brand now. We want to reinforce the signature of the brand and make sure we deliver. But we have to tread lightly as we go forward."
Jeep is always testing the reaction to new developments with concept cars and recently previewed six, including an off-roader called Stitch with traditional Wrangler styling but a see-through plastic body. Mrozowski will not be drawn into specific speculation on future models, but is happy to emphasise the growth of Jeep models that are less extreme than the four-wheel drive workhorses developed to conquer the famous Rubicon Trail in the USA that has always been the focus of off-road development.
"There are people who want the Jeep image but don't need the capability," he says. "So we do see the brand evolving. But it's evolution versus revolution. It's the changes that match the needs of the customers.
"There are certain things that are Jeep. It is the jewel of the (Chrysler) company and something we have to protect. And be true to the brand and our customers. They know there is a variant that can do the Rubicon, or anything that's thrown at them off-road."
This reporter is Twitter: @paulwardgover
