New Concepts Offer Glimpse of Future Compact Jeep Models
"If you're shackled to the past, you're never going to improve." These are the words of one Trevor Creed, Chrysler's senior vice president of design. This formidable claim is directed towards Jeep, DaimlerChrysler's pedigree
off-roading brand, which will introduce two concepts of the brand's upcoming "baby" sport utility vehicle during this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.
The Compass Rallye and the Patriot are examples of a definitive branch in the Jeep lineup, forming what's known internally as "Jeep Modern", targeting younger, less gender-specific buyers. Destined to slot under the Liberty and in the realm of the CR-V/RAV-4/Tucson band, production versions of the Compass Rallye and Patriot will trod down a new path; one that's urbanized and paved.
Characterized by smaller dimensions, less lofty ground clearances and lighter grade off-roading gear, these Jeeps are more suited to zipping about city streets while running errands than breaking trail alongside TJs, Libertys and Grand Cherokees. Jeep hopes to attract more buyers to the brand with these entry-level car-based models, due to car-like ride and handling characteristics as well as more affordable pricing. These new concepts are proof that Jeep as a brand is evolving, challenging
stereotypes with an interest in expanding beyond its current four-model lineup; or almost current being that the new 7-occupant Commander is not quite available yet.
The Patriot concept can be best described as classic Jeep, downsized. Although it's four inches shorter than the Liberty, visually it follows tradition with an upright and boxy shape. Major styling cues, including the flat-plate front grille with round headlamps and integrated spot lamps, fall in line with Jeep's classic identity, although a high metal-to-glass ratio and chisel-cut fenders add a touch of individuality. Jeep is targeting younger buyers who prefer a more rugged-looking SUV, with simpler, utilitarian exterior panels; a reminder of the extremely popular second-generation Cherokee, launched in the early '80s.
"If you're shackled to the past, you're never going to improve." These are the words of one Trevor Creed, Chrysler's senior vice president of design. This formidable claim is directed towards Jeep, DaimlerChrysler's pedigree
 |
| The original Jeep Compass Concept, first shown in 2002. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
The Compass Rallye and the Patriot are examples of a definitive branch in the Jeep lineup, forming what's known internally as "Jeep Modern", targeting younger, less gender-specific buyers. Destined to slot under the Liberty and in the realm of the CR-V/RAV-4/Tucson band, production versions of the Compass Rallye and Patriot will trod down a new path; one that's urbanized and paved.
Characterized by smaller dimensions, less lofty ground clearances and lighter grade off-roading gear, these Jeeps are more suited to zipping about city streets while running errands than breaking trail alongside TJs, Libertys and Grand Cherokees. Jeep hopes to attract more buyers to the brand with these entry-level car-based models, due to car-like ride and handling characteristics as well as more affordable pricing. These new concepts are proof that Jeep as a brand is evolving, challenging
 |
| The Patriot concept can be best described as classic Jeep, downsized. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
The Patriot concept can be best described as classic Jeep, downsized. Although it's four inches shorter than the Liberty, visually it follows tradition with an upright and boxy shape. Major styling cues, including the flat-plate front grille with round headlamps and integrated spot lamps, fall in line with Jeep's classic identity, although a high metal-to-glass ratio and chisel-cut fenders add a touch of individuality. Jeep is targeting younger buyers who prefer a more rugged-looking SUV, with simpler, utilitarian exterior panels; a reminder of the extremely popular second-generation Cherokee, launched in the early '80s.