Eager to increase its presence in growing markets throughout Africa, Jeep has announced that it has recently started to sell SUVs and crossovers in a small handful of dealers in Morocco.

The Grand Cherokee, the Wrangler, the Wrangler Unlimited and the Compass are sold through three dealerships owned by Fiat Group Automobiles Maroc (FGAM), a firm that also distributes Fiat, Abarth, Lancia, Iveco and Alfa Romeo products.  Essentially identical to their European-spec counterparts in terms of specification and equipment, the Morocco-bound Jeeps are imported from abroad and most are offered with either a gasoline- or a diesel-burning engine.

Analysts say Jeep’s move into Morocco is a smart one because SUVs and crossovers are becoming increasingly popular among well-heeled buyers looking for a comfortable way to navigate the country’s often-rough roads.  Last year, SUVs and crossovers made up 20 percent of new car sales in the North African nation. 

In order to generate interest among buyers, Jeep will take advantage country’s proximity to the grueling Sahara Desert to inaugurate Morocco’s first manufacturer-sponsored 4×4 driving school within spitting distance of the city of Marrakech.  Appropriately called Jeep Academy, the school will provide a host of half- and full-day off-road training courses for brand owners and enthusiasts alike.

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