Good buggy platform....?

[1995zj]

http://hubpages.com/hub/Revealed-2011-Jeep-Phoenix-Based-On-Fiat-Panda-4x4

I think I found a new platform to base my buggy off of. Much more nimble than the Grand Cherokee I've got now

 

[Cody]

This will be a true test of Stephen's meddle. A sami sized, Fiat based, 59 mpg, diesel powered, 4x4 with viscous locking diffs made new for the American consumer. He'll naturally hate it because it will say Jeep on it, but were it an offering from a Japanese auto maker he would probably sell his firs born to have one.

That being said, is this thing really coming here? If it gets 59 mpg and only costs $10,500 then I'll buy one as a commuter car. I couldn't care less what it looks like if it gets that kind of mileage for that price new.

 

[1995zj]

I don't believe it is. It was talked about in a few magazines back in 2009 about it being released in 2011...haven't seen anything confirming it though and pretty sure we know it's not a 2011 model.

 

[SAMI]

So Jeep's foot may be in their mouth with their recent 2011 model commercials boasting the American heritage in the Jeep name.. Now a rebadged Fiat? Nicely done Jeep.

 

[1995zj]

This was back in 2009 when Chrysler and Fiat "merged"
http://blogs.trucktrend.com/6543773...-jeep-family-2011-jeep-phoenix-4x4/index.html

 

[Tacoma]

That being said, is this thing really coming here? If it gets 59 mpg and only costs $10,500 then I'll buy one as a commuter car. I couldn't care less what it looks like if it gets that kind of mileage for that price new.

Freakin' A. Economics > personal desires.

 

[Bart]

Great departure angle.

 

[Cody]

I read further and it's not a real vehicle. I doubt it ever will be.

As for the new grand, it's just a M-class mercedes with some better 4wd options I'd drive one I guess, but it's definitely not going to be a builder for anyone that isn't loaded.

Embarrassingly enough, I just saw this picture but I'm not even sure if it's a WK or a WK2. Regardless, it's sweet looking.

 

[N-Smooth]

i try to block out the fiat merger deal, not that i have the money for a
2009+ jeep anyways

but i do think the new grand is sick!!!!! i love the skid plate commercial too. that pic is sweet cody

 

[Stephen]

This will be a true test of Stephen's meddle. A sami sized, Fiat based, 59 mpg, diesel powered, 4x4 with viscous locking diffs made new for the American consumer. He'll naturally hate it because it will say Jeep on it, but were it an offering from a Japanese auto maker he would probably sell his firs born to have one.

There have been rumors floating around about a Fiat based Jeep for the past year or so. Personally I would prefer to see one based on the Campagnola than the Panda 4x4. But I tend to think neither of them would actually make it state side. Which is too bad, because look what Renault did for Jeep. We got the XJ and the ZJ out of that deal. Probably two of the most popular 4x4's of the last quarter century. I think Jeep benefits from outside influence.
That being said, the Panda 4x4 has some decent chops for what it is. It's no rock crawler, but it's a pretty nice setup for an overlander. Would I buy one, meh. And it has nothing to do with the fact it would have the Jeep name on it (I would obviously rebadge it as Fiat just so I would be confused with a UAW loving 'merican). Really, for a vehicle that size I'm pretty happy with the Samurai for my 4x4 needs and if I want a commuter, I'd rather pick up a 500.
And Cody, you would dare suggest that we would give up our first child together!?!?!

 

[Cody]

. Which is too bad, because look what Renault did for Jeep. We got the XJ and the ZJ out of that deal. Probably two of the most popular 4x4's of the last quarter century. I think Jeep benefits from outside influence.

Stupid question, but was Renault affiliated with AMC? I know the XJ came out in what, 84? The ZJ prototype debuted in 88 I believe and the debut in 93 was nearly identical to that prototype.

 

[Stephen]

Stupid question, but was Renault affiliated with AMC? I know the XJ came out in what, 84? The ZJ prototype debuted in 88 I believe and the debut in 93 was nearly identical to that prototype.

In the late '70's ('78 I think) Renault and AMC entered into an alliance. By ~'82 Renault was basically running things at AMC.