Flexibility is key for Jeep in 2015

[Jimmyb]

The Wrangler is non-negotiable. It’s the car that has a look that is absolutely iconic and not to be messed with.

That was said by Jeep CEO Mike Manly at the recent Detroit Auto show. For traditionalists that is good news as the Wrangler is one of only a handful truly iconic vehicles, and arguably the most recognisable of all.

Changing it would cause ructions that would affect the popularity of the Wrangler, and Jeep as a whole. Let’s face it - grumbling about new models is a Jeep thing, but if the Wrangler stopped being a ‘proper’ wrangler (yes, TJ owners, the JK is a proper Wrangler! ), the grumbling would be deafening.

The rest of the Jeep range? You know how the new Cherokee looks different to anything that has gone before it? Expect more of that, because Mr Manly said that Jeep was going to be a lot more flexible with its shapes.

Pointing to the KJ, KK and KL cherokees as examples he said that Jeep had experimented with flowing lines, moved to boxy, and now with the KL, a completely different look, all to broaden their appeal.

He said that the cars will still be recognisably Jeeps, but the looks will evolve. “you’ll start to see how flexible we can be,” he said.

Given how well jeeps have been selling in the last year, he may well be onto a winning formula, and certainly has a bit more wriggle room to experiment.


Word by: Charles Kooij