Grand Cherokee Making Room for New Crossover

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1. By Bill Burke #1, Posted: 8/13/2008

   This is not really a surprise. It was known months ago that Chrysler would be building three vehicles on this new platform, most likely a shoot-off of a Mercedes cross-over influenced design. People forget that Damiler Benz still owns 20% of Chrysler and is still invested in its future product development, including the Phoenix engine program. This is a modular engine design which will also find it's way into MB's. Chrysler is making a smart move and will more than likely be able to retain the "trail-rated" qualities on a softer,fuel friendly product. My guess is that this platform will become the basis of a group of rear drive, mid size, vehicles. These will be B.M.W. fighters in Dodge form and Lexus fighters in Chrysler form. My guess is that you'll see a Jeep (two versons) a Dodge Durango and a Chrysler Aspen. I also think you'll see many niches for these mid sized cars including 2 drs., 4 drs, and 5 drs. Thats my prediction based on pure conjecture. If I'm on target, the future looks good for my boys at Chrysler.

2. By BR #2, Posted: 8/13/2008

   This is a terrible idea. While I'm in no away against having a crossover in the Jeep line-up, it is not a good idea to get rid of the Grand Cherokee. I'm a Grand Cherokee owner and a huge fan of the unique truck-based model. Aside from the Wrangler, the Grand Cherokee is the best car Jeep has. Killing it or removing its tough Jeep character is a mistake, especially when people like me would buy another one in a second.

3. By Ed #3, Posted: 8/14/2008

   too many SUV models chasing too few customers.
   and expecially, too many Jeep and Fake Jeep (patriot=caliber, compass ugly and dead now) models for that matter.
   the days of commuting 100 miles a day in vehicles designed for OFF ROAD duties are OVER.
   FOr those few that will ever use the Jeep off road once a month, they can RENT one and commute in a fuel efficient, decent vehicle instead.
   They will make gas che3aper and plentiful for themaselves and for all the rest of us.

4. By  Wayne K #4, Posted: 8/14/2008

   Bill: Interesting thoughts from your end about what's going on. I agree that they will still be able to have the "trail rated" badge on the new crossover. Jeep's 2 versions will be the new Grand Cherokee and the Commander replacement (or new Grand Cherokee XL). Maybe a new gen Durango, but I believe that the Aspen is dead all together. Chrysler is trying to trim their product line and reduce the redundancey that they currently have across the brands. I think they're on the right path. But I don't see in any way shape or form how Dodge's can be thought to do battle with BMW or Chrysler with Lexus....IMO.
   Ed: If someone wants to continue to buy large SUV's and pay at the pump evertime they have to fill up becaue they drive the 100 mines a day, LET THEM. THIS IS STILL AMERICA. Where do you get off telling someone that hey can't do that anymore, and they will have to rent a Jeep if they want to go off road? Get a clue man.

5. By dejal #5, Posted: 8/14/2008

   Chill, Wayne K!!!
   That's NOT what he said.
   What he said, is no different than the turn of last century,
   "The day of the horse is dead". They haven't outlawed horses. No one is stopping you from buying one.
   The day of the buggy whip is dead also. You can still buy buggy whips.
   But, if you want to throw a hissy fit because you intentionally read something that's not there, be my guest.

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