Decision on a Jeep pickup coming soon, truck could come on Wrangler or Fiat platform

[Jimmyb]

"Pretty soon." That's the answer Jeep president Mike Manley gave to Australian site Car Advice when asked about a decision on a Jeep pickup truck.

And with the next-generartion Wrangler planned for arrival in 2015 or 2016, this is the window for getting with planners. There's certainly plenty of lust for a Jeep pickup – just look at the strong sales of Mopar's JK8 kit.

Concerning a factory-fresh production version, part of the considerations are whether to build a two-door, or a four-door that could provide more space for people and cargo but wouldn't have the Wrangler's same off-road might. Making a Wrangler variant that can't live up to the stalwart Jeep's off-road standards is a concern for Manley. The approach and departure angles of a four-door wouldn't be a problem, but the length of a pickup would mean "your break-over angle gets destroyed," said Manley, and in that case he wonders, "Then is it really a Wrangler?" The two-door, however, would have "no issue at all."

Another idea would be to build a Jeep pickup on a Fiat platform, perhaps the one underpinning the next Liberty. That could be a model distinct from the Wrangler line and, while still possessing the off-road promise of a Jeep. Manley only spoke of that hypotetically, though, saying he could "see the opportunity in the future" for such a vehicle. It shouldn't be long before we know one way or another.

[drover]

I await with bated breath. About bloody time, a revamped CJ8 would be great, Jeep has needed a commercial vehicle for over 20 yrs now. Hurry up.

[andyperth]

Hurry hurry hurry I want one hurry

[BaldyTJ]

Just do it .it will be cheaper then cutting up me tj or buying a jk to cut up

[CD]

This is good news.....Ive got 18 months on my Triton to go. Fingerscrossed a duel cab will be on the cards.

[Wilf]

I am already old and grey so I hope this happens before dementia kicks in

[garbonzo]

Originally Posted by Wilf

I am already old and grey so I hope this happens before dementia kicks in

Not too far behind you brother....LOL....the Tassie beer isn't helping. But back to the UTE....I'd be seriously, in fact firmly interested...if this ends up a Wrangler variation with 2 and 4-door versions. I need the 4 doors for passengers....but need some load space too. If the angles and capability are in line with what others offer..(or better)..ie Toyota hilux, Ford Ranger, Mazda Bravo... etc...BUT if it's a JEEP....I'd get one in a heartbeat. JEEP would be (and has been) crazy to ignore this segment...they could make zillions of dollars...worldwide.