Blast from the Past: Jeep to Revive Grand Wagoneer Nameplate

Methuen, 09/27/2012 / SubmitMyPR /

Details are starting to surface about Jeep's updated lineup for the 2014 model year, and longtime fans of the brand might recognize a familiar name from the past. According to Automotive News, Jeep's Grand Wagoneer nameplate will return to dealerships sometime next year as a replacement for the outgoing Dodge Durango, joining an updated Jeep Grand Cherokee and redesigned Liberty for the 2014 model year.

One of the first sport utility vehicles on the market, the Jeep Wagoneer debuted in 1962 and was renamed the Grand Wagoneer in 1984. The full-size SUV stayed in production for nearly three decades before finally being retired in 1991. Jeep is designing the 2014 Grand Wagoneer to compete directly against the Chevrolet Suburban, featuring an upscale cabin that seats seven passengers while maintaining the rugged quality for which the automaker is known.

"A luxurious full-size SUV with plenty of capability is a great way for the Jeep brand to expand while still staying true to its roots," said Tom Barenboim, owner of Clark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, a Methuen, Massachusetts Jeep dealer. "A lot of our customers have fond memories of growing up with the Grand Wagoneer, but the new model will instead be a modern SUV that has all the amenities and safety they need now that they have families of their own."

The original Grand Wagoneer's replacement, the Grand Cherokee, will be refreshed for the 2014 model year. Jeep will reportedly bring the 3.0-liter diesel engine currently available on European Grand Cherokee models to the United States, creating a more fuel-efficient option for buyers. With the current five-speed automatic transmission, the diesel unit returns 33 mpg on the highway on the European cycle, 10 more miles per gallon than the EPA highway rating of the vehicle's standard gas-powered V6 engine.

Fuel economy in the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee is expected to get an additional boost from a new eight-speed automatic transmission, which will also produce faster acceleration. A larger 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen will bring more sophisticated technology to the SUV's interior, while revised front and rear fascias will greet buyers outside when the 2014 Grand Cherokee goes on sale next spring.

Jeep has two other new models in the works as part of its plan to replenish its entire lineup by 2016. Awaiting a January reveal, the redesigned 2014 Jeep Liberty may even receive a new moniker as the Jeep Cherokee. The compact SUV will get a new 3.2-liter V6 engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission, replacing the outgoing 3.7-liter V6 paired with a four-speed automatic gearbox. Meanwhile, a new subcompact Jeep will be coming to the United States in 2014, and at least one trim of the entry-level crossover will be trail-rated for off-roading.

"Living in New England, it's great to have the all-conditions capability to battle nasty weather, and Jeep's revamped lineup will maintain those characteristics while offering more style and fuel efficiency," added Barenboim. "Also, with the new compact and subcompact options, more and more urban buyers are going to find that they can fit a Jeep into their lives."

About Clark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram:
For more than 60 years, Clark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram has helped car, truck and SUV buyers find the vehicles that satisfy their needs, along with the financing and service they deserve. Whether you’re searching for hassle-free Jeep sales, Chrysler parts, Dodge service or the latest Ram trucks, their dealership works hard to exceed customer expectations. To view Clark’s wide selection of new and used Jeep and Chrysler models, visit their showroom at 175 Pelham Street in Methuen, Massachusetts, or browse online at www.clarkchryslerjeep.com. They can be reached by phone at 888-875-3706, and you
can find them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/ClarkJeep.