Monday, May 04, 2009 at 10:28
Thats almost a pretty fair statement mfewster .... untill you take into account the market Jeep models were aimed at.
Essentially, Jeep have been a midrange vehicle since the early 80s ... as in the US - if someone wants a "longhauler" they simply went out and bought such a vehicle i.e. F250 / Suburban etc ... or even one of those winnebago things.
Jeep has always been an upgradeable vehicle so initial production component quality is of an "adequate" nature IMHO - its here that govt regs cause issues in regards to changing specs from that supplied ... and Im talking brakes/driveline components ... not six story
suspension lifts needing staircases for access.
Jeep and even LR continued to fill the ... basic swb 4x4 gap after toyo/niss decided they couldnt be bothered to offer Aust a full range of models.
Jeep 4.0l XJs gave the midrange SUV market outstanding offroad ability and a real sized engine that didnt need to scream its tits off to get anywhere or do anything.
If Jeep had been allowed to build XJs here in Aust back in the 80s then it may have developed into an even better vehicle than what it was ... R&D here (longhaul) was prevented by OUR govt ... not a Jeep failing.
Post millenium Jeeps are "chryslers" .... Basically a whole new vehicle and style some of which are only 3yrs old ... Comparing them against brands and models ... available in this country for nearly 60yrs is a bit biased.
Looking at how many "new style" 4dr JKs and Commanders are cruising the toyo/nissan sacred areas today ... Some smart R&D by the "new" chrysler could have some interesting results.
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