Jeep to add three new models by 2020

FCA has confirmed it will be adding three new Jeeps to its line-up including the much anticipated revision of the classic Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer and a pick-up truck.

The announcement comes as production of existing Jeep models is being stepped up to meet increasing demand for SUVs and pick-up trucks, particularly in the US.

The Wagoneer is based on the classic big Jeep first introduced in 1962 and dropped in 1991 despite its enduring popularity, and will offer a third-row option for Jeep buyers.

The Grand Wagoneer is set to become the brand’s new flagship. Leaked images of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer (pictured) have previously shown it will be substantially bigger than the Grand Cherokee putting it in the same gigantean class as the 200-Series Toyota LandCruiser and Y62 Nissan Patrol.

It’s also likely to go up against more esteemed company, with FCA executives previously hinting it may actually be put up against more upmarket maxi offerings such as the Audi Q7, Mercedes-Benz GLS and Range Rover.

While not much is known about the new pick-up truck, it is expected to be the Jeep Wrangler-based four-door ute due in 2019, which FCA has previously expressed will be “very good for Australia”.

The new Jeeps will be part of FCA’s US$1 billion investment US-based global Jeep manufacturing hub, which includes retooling and modernisation of its plants in Warren Michigan and Toledo Ohio which is expected to create 2000 jobs.

FCA chief executive Sergio Marchionne says the expansion of the Jeep line-up is a key pillar of the company’s continuing strategy in the face of a global sales downturn across its brands, which also include Fiat, Dodge and Chrysler.

“Our commitment to internationalise the Jeep brand is unwavering, and with these last moves, we will finally have the capacity to successfully penetrate markets other than the US, which have historically been denied product due to capacity constraints.

“In addition, these all new products will reach new consumers as well as those that have been part of the Jeep tradition.”