LA MOTOR SHOW: Jeep announces two special editions

Next weekend's LA motor show will see the debut of two new special edition models from Jeep, and they couldn't be more different from each other.

The performance-focused Grand Cherokee SRT Night and the outdoor-winter-themed Wrangler Backcountry special-editions offer a "distinctive appearance, while delivering an array of prominent performance and capability features," according to Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT Night is distinguished from the regular SRT with its stealth-like appearance, featuring Gloss Black roof, rear spoiler, front grille bezels, B and C pillars as well as the side window surrounds.

Adorning the already massive wheel arches are new, Satin Black "5-Ten" 20-inch alloy wheels, designed to showcase the SRT's standard Brembo stoppers.

The front applique is finished in Satin Black, as well as the badges on the bonnet and tailgate.

Interior appointments include Black Laguna leather with Silver accent stitching and light black chrome bezels.

The Grand Cherokee SRT Night will be available in Velvet Red, Billet Silver and Granite Crystal.

The Jeep Wrangler Backcountry celebrates the American winter season with a winter capability theme.

Based on the US Wrangler Sahara variant, the limited edition model features Backcountry decals on the front fender and rear quarter panels, along with unique off-road front and rear powder coated bumpers.

Other unique exterior features include 17-inch Rubicon wheels finished in Mid-gloss Black and a black fuel filler cap. A black hard top is standard, with the option of a body colour hard top.

Inside, the Backcountry edition features Piano Black vent surrounds, door handles and grab handles. A vinyl-wrapped console lid and door armrests are complimented by black McKinley leather bolstered seats with black sport mesh inserts.

A nine-speaker Alpine sound system and all-weather slush mats are also featured.

The Wrangler Backcountry is available in five colours: Hydro Blue, Black, Bright White, Granite Crystal and Xtreme Purple – a hue exclusive to the Wrangler Backcountry.

FCA Australia says the two limited edition Jeeps are under consideration for our market, but no decision has been made.

The importer has a history of bringing in limited edition Jeep models such as these, so there would appear to be at least some prospect they will be introduced here.

However, given the Wrangler Backcountry, with its "winter capability theme", is clearly aimed at American consumers in the Snowbelt of the USA, it would seem to be an unlikely choice for Australia.