The crossover will be called either Wagoneer or Grand Wagoneer, nameplates used on an iconic full-size Jeep built from the early 1960s to the early 1990s. The off-roader’s exact dimensions are not known but Jeep has hinted that it will ride on a brand new platform that will also underpin new models built by Dodge, Chrysler and possibly Fiat. 

The Wagoneer will offer space for up to seven passengers in its biggest configuration. It will boast a well-appointed cockpit with a long list of high-tech features in order to fend off competition from Europe.

“Obviously I have intimate knowledge of what it is and I think that vehicle could very, very effectively compete with premium SUVs,” explained Jeep CEO Mike Manley in an interview with Australian website Motoring.

The Wagoneer is expected to considerably boost sales. The company is on track to sell over a million cars in the United States this year, and it is hoping new products and an increased effort on international markets will allow it to nearly double that figure by 2018.

Interestingly, Jeep has not ruled out building a crossover-coupe that would rival either the BMW X4 or the bigger X6.

“Sure, definitely, I think it can fit with the brand,” said Manley

The Wagoneer will be presented to the public at a major auto show in late 2015 and go on sale shortly after with a base price of approximately $40,000. It could be assembled in the Toledo, Ohio, plant that has historically assembled the Wrangler.

Tags: , , ,
Categories: