Jeep will add two nameplates in the next three years: a subcompact crossover made in Europe and a three-row luxury SUV built in Detroit.
Only a few models and top trim levels of Jeep's future vehicles will retain full off-road capabilities. The vehicles will be designed primarily for regular roads, with better ride and comfort.
Subcompact: The as-yet-unnamed subcompact crossover will be built in Italy alongside the Fiat 500X, and Jeep expects to sell about 150,000 units worldwide, mostly outside the United States. It's styled like a baby Wrangler and will appear in dealerships in 2014.
Compass: The crossover gets a new six-speed transmission for the 2014 model year, but the vehicle will largely stand pat until Jeep decides whether the Compass or the Patriot survive in 2015. In the meantime, Jeep will continue to experiment with limited-run versions of the Compass to hold consumer interest.
Patriot: The Patriot's new six-speed automatic will help power the vehicle until 2015, when either it or the Compass will be phased out. The Patriot will also get a number of limited-run versions.
Wrangler: Jeep will re-engineer the Wrangler, probably for 2016. Its styling likely will change little, but the Wrangler will get Chrysler's eight-speed transmission and an optional diesel engine. It will also shed pounds. A Wrangler-based pickup is being considered if production capacity can be found.
Cherokee: Production of the Liberty replacement began at the end of June. It's expected to stay largely untouched until at least 2016.
Grand Cherokee: Jeep's flagship SUV was re-engineered for the 2014 model year with a new optional 3.0-liter diesel engine and eight-speed transmissions standard for all trim levels. It won't get another overhaul until the summer of 2016.
Grand Wagoneer: Development of the seven-passenger Grand Wagoneer was delayed two years to 2015 to give a re-engineered Dodge Durango time to find an audience. Jeep still wants the Grand Wagoneer to compete with the Cadillac Escalade and Lexus LX in the large premium SUV segment.
