Big Plans: FCA Boss Gives New Details on New Three-Row Jeep
Automotive News Featured Jeep
March 25, 2019 March 20, 2019 Jackie Strada
Right now, everyone is talking about Jeep's red-hot Gladiator pickup, but Ma Mopar is currently hard at work expanding the product line. And now we have new details on the forthcoming three-row Jeep, courtesy of none other than Fiat Chrysler CEO Mike Manley.
Speaking to the UK's Auto Express, Manley talked about several topics — including how he'd be terrified to dramatically change the looks of the Wrangler. But it was his comments on larger offerings which proved most interesting:
One is the large SUV segment. There are relatively few competitors in there, but it could be a great segment for Jeep and we'll bring back the Grand Wagoneer at that time. Then the second is a three row Jeep, which will technically play in the same segment as Grand Cherokee. Roughly 60% of that segment is three row, so Grand Cherokee has really only played in 40%. That will open up that part of the segment for us.
Personally, we'd love to see any new Grand Wagoneer take some cues from the gorgeous concept which turned so many heads at last year's Easter Jeep Safari. That said, the takeaway here is that there will be a three-row Jeep, but buyers won't have to go all the way to the top of the product line to get it.
We'd guess it will be based on the same basic architecture as the Grand Cherokee, but with a slightly longer wheelbase, similar to how Lexus offers a L version of its best-selling RX. At the point, all signs point toward the idea that a new Grand Wagoneer will be aimed squarely at hyper-luxurious rides like the Land Rover Range Rover, so while it will likely have an optional third row, the price tag will probably crest the $100,000 mark.
Expect your local AutoNation dealer to have at least one three-row Jeep offering in the showroom by the end of next year. Until then, take a look at the Cherokee, the Wrangler, or the Gladiator, because the Jeep lineup is more exciting than ever!
New Benchmark: 2019 Audi A7 Prestige Quattro
Adventure Ready: 2019 Chevrolet Equinox LT 2.0T