The storied Wagoneer model name is set to return, as Jeep’s parent company FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles) has confirmed that the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer premium SUVs will be added to the manufacturer’s model range along with a new pick-up truck.
FCA has also announced a $1 billion (approximately Rs 6,814 crore) investment into two of its US car plants – the Warren Truck Assembly Plant in Michigan and Toledo Assembly Complex in Ohio – with the aim of increasing production capacity to meet demand for SUVs and trucks.
The new body-on-frame Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will be produced at Warren, with the as-yet-unnamed pick-up due to be made at Toledo. The pick-up truck is set to be based upon the next-generation Wrangler’s underpinnings.
The two Wagoneer vehicles will sit at the top of Jeep’s international model range, with the Grand Wagoneer set to go head-to-head with the likes of Range Rover in terms of premium finish, performance, off-road capability and price.
FCA chief executive, Sergio Marchionne, said: “The expansion of our Jeep line-up has been and continues to be the key pillar of our strategy.”
“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,” added Marchionne. “In addition, these all-new products will reach new consumers, as well as those that have been part of the Jeep tradition.”
In India, FCA introduced the Jeep brand last year with the launch of the iconic Wrangler in the four-door Unlimited body style and the Grand Cherokee in standard diesel and high performance SRT guise. The automaker is further looking to expand its presence in the market with the launch of the new Jeep Compass this year.
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Viraaj Bhatnagar
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