3 Jeep Vehicles Set to Make a Comeback – Miami Lakes Automall Jeep
Jeep has been making vehicles for three-quarters of a century. In that long history, it has made some truly exceptional models and has had a diverse lineup.
Though Jeep has always been an innovator and produced quality designs, not every vehicle has been a best-seller. Even the lower-selling Jeeps were diamonds in the rough, but some were not right for their time.
Fortunately, everything that is old can be new again, and some older Jeeps could make a comeback thanks to changing attitudes in the marketplace and updates in automotive technology. Parent company FCA has been reviving some of its other older models, such as the Dodge Charger and the Dodge Challenger, with exceptional success.
In fact, sales of the latest Hellcat models of the Charger and Challenger have had to be suspended because orders have far outpaced the available inventory. If FCA decides to take a similar approach with Jeep, some exciting changes could be in store in the next five to 10 years.
If you are searching for a Jeep in Miami , here are three older models that might become available again in the near future (or should):
Jeep Wagoneer
Three versions of the Jeep Wagoneer have been made available over the years: A full-size SUV known as the Jeep Wagoneer SJ available from 1963 to 1991, a midsize SUV known as the Jeep Grand Wagoneer ZJ available from 1993 to 1998, and a compact SUV known as the Jeep Wagoneer XJ available from 1984 to 1991. No version of the Jeep Wagoneer has been available for nearly 20 years, but we think the time is right to revive this model.
The Jeep Wagoneer is similar to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, but it is a bit boxier and roomier. It is like a smaller version of an Escalade or a Suburban — just the right size for large families. You can easily fit seven in the Jeep Wagoneer with room left over for luggage, school bags, sports equipment and more.
The Wagoneer was a pioneer for the SUV, and it featured a powerful engine that pull the vehicle over nearly any kind of terrain. Its size and power make it flexible enough to drive a family or to use as a work vehicle. This flexibility makes it a practical choice for those on all kinds of budgets.
The Jeep Wagoneer had one of the longest production runs of any model, and it had the longest production time on the same platform of any vehicle.
There has been a lot of talk in recent years about reviving the Jeep Wagoneer. Chrysler announced in 2011 that it would be revived as an upscale seven-seat SUV, but the plans were put on hold while the company focused on the Dodge Durango. Chrysler said it would use the Grand Wagoneer as a basis for a luxury SUV that would rival the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator.
Chrysler included a new vehicle with the Grand Wagoneer name in its five-year plan introduced in 2014. No details have yet been released on when it will be available for sale.
Jeep Pickup Truck
Jeep fans have been clamoring for a Jeep pickup truck to fill the gap left behind by the Gladiator, which ended its run in 1988. Jeep CEO said recently that he is a “big fan” of the idea of a Jeep pickup truck, but that the company has other priorities in the immediate future. Some industry analysts predict that a new Jeep truck could makes its way to dealerships in 2018, but plans are all speculation at this point.
With the durability and strength for which Jeep is known, a pickup truck seems like a no-brainer. However, it has been almost 30 years since a truck was in the lineup.
The Jeep Gladiator was introduced in 1971, but the Gladiator name was dropped after the first year, and it thereafter became known as simply the Jeep pickup or J-Truck.
Chrysler dropped the Jeep pickup when it purchased the brand in 1987 because the Jeep truck competed with its own Dodge pickup trucks. Chrysler continued to produced the Jeep Comanche through 1992.
The Comanche was introduced in 1985, and it had a much shorter run than the Gladiator. The Comanche was modeled on the Jeep Cherokee, and it was a smaller, less powerful pickup. It was handy as a light work truck, but it didn’t have huge towing power. Chrysler ultimately dropped the Comanche because it had low sales, and the company decided to focus on its other trucks.
A new Jeep pickup could be built on the Jeep Wrangler platform. An earlier concept for a new Gladiator was based on the Jeep Wrangler design, as well.
Jeep Jeepster
The name Jeepster says it all. This was the cutest of all Jeep models, and it was designed as an offroad sports car. The Jeepster was introduced in 1966 as a rival to the International Scout. In the beginning, sports car was just one option for the Jeepster. It was also available as a pickup truck, convertible or wagon.
The Jeepster was first introduced as the Jeepster Commando, and after 1972, it became known as just the Commando.
An earlier model of the Jeepster was produced by original Jeep owner Willys-Overland from 1948 to 1950. It was the last open-air model produced by a major automaker. Known as a phaeton, these automobiles looked more like carriages with a half roof and no windshield or windows. The Jeepster included a convertible roof for some protection.
In 2005, a concept version of a new Jeepster was introduced that looked nothing like those earlier models. The streamlined body featured a shorter cabin but oversized wheels. It looked like a more sophisticated version of an ATV — one that could climb over boulders but that was aerodynamic enough to pick up top speeds on trails or roads.
The new Jeepster was meant to be a versatile vehicle that would appeal to families looking for a more fun vehicle as well as outdoor enthusiasts who wanted something rugged yet sophisticated.
A new Jeepster was produced for 2015, but it was given the Renegade name, and it looks nothing like that 2005 concept. Instead, the Renegade looks like a mini version of a Jeep Wrangler — except with rounder edges. Imagine that a Wrangler and a Mini Cooper had a baby and you have some idea of what this new Jeepster looks like.
We’re still holding out hope that the 2005 concept will become available for sale as a Jeep in Miami. The market is ripe for such a Jeepster and for a revival of these other iconic Jeep models. Jeep has been smashing sales records in the last couple of years, and the company is poised to continue growing its sales numbers as the cachet of the Jeep brand rises.
Jeep has been working to capitalize on its recent success by expanding its production facilities and focusing on ways to improve its line, such as by offering more eco-friendly vehicles. We hope that the automaker will consider bringing back one of these top Jeep models with a modern update.
Whatever the future holds for specific models, it’s an exciting time to shop for a new Jeep in Miami. Visit Miami Lakes Jeep today to learn more about the 2015 models.
Previous Post Toledo Pushes to Keep Wrangler Production in City Next Post Jeep Previews 7 Concepts for Easter Safari