New Jeeps bound for Oz

Jeep unveiled two brand-new production cars at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit this week -- both aimed at younger customers, and both heading Down Under.

Top of the list was an all-new Wrangler. And though hard to pick from the current model, the new Wrangler is bigger and features all-new sheet metal and upgrades to its suspension and driveline.

A new pushrod 3.8-litre V6 replaces the current 4.0-litre inline petrol six. The 3.8 is matched with either a six-speed manual gearbox or four-speed auto and boasts more power and torque than the outgoing powerplant, according to Jeep.

The new Wrangler will also come to Australia with a diesel engine for the first time.

The new model's wheelbase is 50mm longer and track has been increased by over 70mm front and rear. The new Jeep also boasts a 100 per cent stiffer chassis, improved ground clearance, upgraded suspension and transfer cases, as well as (in the US anyway) larger wheel and tyre sizes.

The longer wheelbase (and wider track) should translate into more interior space. This will be capitalised upon via a cockpit redesign, new seats and more luggage room behind the second row.

The new Wrangler also benefits from improved aerodynamics, ESP and side airbags, together with four-wheel antilock disc ABS brakes.

The Compass represents Jeeps first foray into the softroader market.

A brand new all-wheel drive system is a key feature on the Compass, says the company. According to Jeep, it offers "on-road refinement with the performance, handling and fuel economy of a family car."

The AWD system also offers a full-time setting and will "offer the driver tangible benefits in every day driving conditions such as wet tarmac."

Gerry Jenkins, managing director, Chrysler Jeep Australia said: “These two new Jeeps are designed to reach younger customers who may not have previously considered the Jeep brand.

“They will be great on-road cars as well as being able to drive off the beaten track. It’s really exciting that at last customers will be able to boast that they have a ‘soft-roader’ [Compass] with a Jeep badge to compete with the Japanese brands,” said Jenkins.

“The Jeep Compass reflects the new ‘Jeep-modern’ design theme and fulfils customers’ demands for a modern family car with the credibility and characteristics associated with the Jeep brand name,” said Jenkins.

“For customers who want more off-road style and ability, the new Jeep Wrangler reflects the more traditional ‘Jeep-rugged’ design theme. The Jeep Wrangler may be the icon of the Jeep brand but there is nothing old-fashioned about this all-new vehicle,” Jenkins added.

According to Jeep, both the Compass and new Wrangler will be coming to Australia within the next 18 months.