Jeep Wrangler ute confirmed

Jeep’s all-new, next-generation Wrangler will feature a ute in its line-up, according to a new report by US newswire Automotive News.

Due on sale some time in 2017, the new Wrangler-badged pick-up will share the SUV's new range of engines -- including a diesel matched with both a six-speed manual and a new eight-speed automatic -- but the Wrangler will remain as tough as ever.

Again based on a separate chassis, the redesigned small Jeep will keep its solid axles and feature a steel body, despite rumours the Wrangler was poised to switch to an all-aluminium construction.

Instead, aluminium will be employed but the tough Jeep will use the lightweight metal for its doors, bonnet and rear boot lid.

Already said to be in development, the all-new ute is also thought to be inspired by the 2005 Jeep Gladiator concept (pictured), although that car -- despite its looks -- wasn’t actually a Wrangler.

The Gladiator was really based on a far bigger Dodge Ram 1500 frame and only shared the Wrangler’s styling.

It’s not known whether or not Jeep will use the same trick for the production vehicle as a Wrangler-based pick-up may be considered too small for US tastes.

Originally, the Wrangler was poised to feature a state-of-the-art lightweight aluminium architecture but that would have meant moving production from its current Ohio plant to a facility that specialised in the manufacturer of aluminium bodies -- a move that was not popular with unions.

Producing a Wrangler pick-up at the same plant has been seen as a deal to make up for moving the Cherokee to another plant.