Give 4X4 Driving a Go - Test Drive a Jeep Cherokee Today
Whilst looking for a new 4X4 vehicle, it occurred to me that the market had become saturated with similar vehicles all vying for the same spots on everybody's driveways. Ever since the 4X4 explosion in popularity during the nineties (where they ceased to represent a rugged, pastoral existence and became an indicator of wealth and privilege) the vast proportion of car manufacturers have offered their own interpretation of what they consider to be the ultimate 4X4.
Up until I was handed the keys to one, I had never seriously considered owning a 4X4, as I generally prefer feeling closer to the tarmac and a little less surrounded by metal. However, I was asked to test drive a new Jeep Cherokee and found myself enjoying the experience immensely. The model I tested was the new Jeep Cherokee Jeep Cherokee 2.8 CRD Limited; complete with a considerably powerful diesel engine.
The first impressions were more of confusion than a clear positive or negative persuasion. If you have spent your entire driving career in hatchbacks, saloons and the occasional roadster, the feeling of stepping up into a high driving positioned vehicle is strange and rather disconcerting. Although only a matter of inches higher than a regular car, driving the Jeep Cherokee gave me a disconcerting sense of vertigo. After half an hour or so of coursing round country lanes and a couple of dual carriageways this odd feeling gave way to a sense of road-mastery. The sheer size of the Jeep Cherokee does give you a genuine sense of owning the road, which in less mature hands could lead to mischief, but all it gave me was a sense of control.
I would highly recommend at least test driving a Jeep Cherokee, firstly to see whether 4X4 driving is suitable for you and secondly to briefly enjoy feeling like king of the road.
Pete J Ridgard is a car enthusiast and a writer. Here he discusses the joys of driving a Jeep Cherokee
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Jeep Grand Cherokee - Taking on the 4X4 Giants
Jeep Grand Cherokee - Taking on the 4X4 Giants
In the ever-increasing world of choice that the 4X4 market has morphed into, it is often extremely difficult to choose the right model for you and your specific needs. While arguably the majority of this market share belongs to Land Rover, there are certain manufacturers who have become synonymous with producing quality off road vehicles. None more so than Jeep.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.1 V8 SRT-8 is a hugely popular model from the company which practically invented off-road driving. Jeep fell behind in the 4X4 race as they seemed to misinterpret what the average 4X4 would be used for on our roads. The Jeep canon was a bit rough-hewn and a little unrefined for the British tastes and Land Rover capitalised by transforming themselves into a privilege brand. What Jeep didn't realise is that 4X4s aren't really used in the fields anymore, they are almost exclusively utilised in the school run. Young mums want to drive their children to school in relaxing, comfortable and smart-looking vehicles, not a 4X4 that looks like Action Man once resided within. This is why Jeep's new Grand Cherokee is a breath of fresh air.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has redressed the balance by being every bit as refined and stylish as their Land Rover cousins. The 6.1 V8 is one of the most aggressive engines I have experienced outside of sports cars and any worries about the bulkiness of the vehicle are immediate discounted when you realise what this V8 is capable of.
The interiors are plush and inviting; in many ways an imperfect place to house snotty, noisy children, but every bit as suitable as the Land Rover. In spirit, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.1 V8 SRT-8 is craving the freedom of off-roading and has the engine to cope with it, but the realisation that it may never travel beyond suburbia it is a viable alternative to any Land Rover model.
In the ever-increasing world of choice that the 4X4 market has morphed into, it is often extremely difficult to choose the right model for you and your specific needs. While arguably the majority of this market share belongs to Land Rover, there are certain manufacturers who have become synonymous with producing quality off road vehicles. None more so than Jeep.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.1 V8 SRT-8 is a hugely popular model from the company which practically invented off-road driving. Jeep fell behind in the 4X4 race as they seemed to misinterpret what the average 4X4 would be used for on our roads. The Jeep canon was a bit rough-hewn and a little unrefined for the British tastes and Land Rover capitalised by transforming themselves into a privilege brand. What Jeep didn't realise is that 4X4s aren't really used in the fields anymore, they are almost exclusively utilised in the school run. Young mums want to drive their children to school in relaxing, comfortable and smart-looking vehicles, not a 4X4 that looks like Action Man once resided within. This is why Jeep's new Grand Cherokee is a breath of fresh air.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has redressed the balance by being every bit as refined and stylish as their Land Rover cousins. The 6.1 V8 is one of the most aggressive engines I have experienced outside of sports cars and any worries about the bulkiness of the vehicle are immediate discounted when you realise what this V8 is capable of.
The interiors are plush and inviting; in many ways an imperfect place to house snotty, noisy children, but every bit as suitable as the Land Rover. In spirit, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 6.1 V8 SRT-8 is craving the freedom of off-roading and has the engine to cope with it, but the realisation that it may never travel beyond suburbia it is a viable alternative to any Land Rover model.
The Most Capable 4X4 Ever Built: The Jeep Hurricane
The Most Capable 4X4 Ever Built: The Jeep Hurricane
The Jeep Hurricane is a concept vehicle unveiled by Daimler-Chrysler at the 2005 North American International Auto Show. It opened with and continues to receive rave reviews! So many in fact that it was rumored that Daimler-Chrysler was considering a limited production run of the vehicle. Those rumors have died down, but the Hurricane continues to draw the interest and attention of 4x4 afficianados, and hey, why not?
As the Daimler-Chrysler spokesman said: “Jeep Hurricane is simply the most maneuverable, most capable and most powerful 4x4 ever built. It pays homage to the extreme enthusiasts' Jeep vehicles in form and off-road capability, but is a unique interpretation of Jeep design. Simply stated, it is the extreme example for the Jeep brand."
Why build such a vehicle? The Hurricane broadly successfully and dramatically illustrates Daimler-Chrysler’s ingenuity, technical ability and wherewithal. Still, the Hurricane does have practical applications out in the real world. As a Daimler-Chrysler spokesman put it, "Out in the wilderness, changing direction in minimal space can mean the difference between an afternoon of adventure and a distress call back to the trailhead…..The multi-mode four-wheel steering system on Jeep Hurricane is designed to offer enthusiasts the next level of performance and unexpected maneuverability." It’s not hard to imagine that we’ll eventually see a military vehicle built off of this original design.
The Hurricane possesses an extremely powerful power system with not one but two 5.7-liter HEMI engines, one in the front and one in the back. Both engines deliver an impressive 335 horses for a total of 670 hp. The Hurricane set-up uses the Chrysler Group’s Multi-Displacement System which allows it to run on 4, 8, 12 or all 16 cylinders enabling it to adjust for speed, power and torque giving the driver ultimate power train control. The Hurricane is responsive and can go from 0 to 60 in less than five seconds!
The power is transferred through a central transfer case with split axles and has a mechanically controlled four-wheel torque distribution system. The suspensions, both front and rear, are short/long arm independent with 20 inches of travel, featuring coilover shocks with remote reservoirs.
One of the most impressive features of the Hurricane is its zero turning radius, which enables the vehicle to turn virtually in a circle in place! This is all thanks to a skid steer capability and toe steer, which is the ability to turn both front and rear tires inward. The Jeep concept vehicle has two types of 4-wheel steering: the traditional method with the rear tires turning opposite of the front wheels and an innovative one in which all four wheels turn in the same direction. This actually allows the Jeep Hurricane to move sideways without changing where it is pointing.
Topping off all of this is the Hurricane’s fantastic ground clearance of 14.3 inches and impressive approach-departure angles of 64.0 and 86.7 degrees. It really is a go anywhere do anything vehicle.
The Hurricane also features an innovative way to combine body, power-train and suspension. The suspension along with the power-train is mounted directly to the one-piece carbon fiber reinforced body, eliminating the weight and need for a frame. The vehicles belly is protected and connected by an aluminum spine, which acts as a huge skid plate mechanism. This is a lightweight and structurally strong set-up.
The general public wasn;t the only ones who loved what they saw. The Jeep Hurricane won Autoweek’s “Most Fun” Concept award at the 2005 North American International Auto Show. As we noted earlier there were rumors that Daimler-Chrysler was toying with the idea of a limited production, but those rumors have died down amid the company’s statement that this was indeed a concept vehicle and that’s all (at least for now). Kids, however, will be able to enjoy the Hurricane as Fisher-Price has introduced an all-new Jeep Hurricane toy.
In addition, for learning about and ordering the latest innovation in Jeep aftermarket parts, great websites like http://www.xtremeterrain.com will illustrate what is new and offer a selection of affordable and high quality parts.
The Jeep Hurricane is a concept vehicle unveiled by Daimler-Chrysler at the 2005 North American International Auto Show. It opened with and continues to receive rave reviews! So many in fact that it was rumored that Daimler-Chrysler was considering a limited production run of the vehicle. Those rumors have died down, but the Hurricane continues to draw the interest and attention of 4x4 afficianados, and hey, why not?
As the Daimler-Chrysler spokesman said: “Jeep Hurricane is simply the most maneuverable, most capable and most powerful 4x4 ever built. It pays homage to the extreme enthusiasts' Jeep vehicles in form and off-road capability, but is a unique interpretation of Jeep design. Simply stated, it is the extreme example for the Jeep brand."
Why build such a vehicle? The Hurricane broadly successfully and dramatically illustrates Daimler-Chrysler’s ingenuity, technical ability and wherewithal. Still, the Hurricane does have practical applications out in the real world. As a Daimler-Chrysler spokesman put it, "Out in the wilderness, changing direction in minimal space can mean the difference between an afternoon of adventure and a distress call back to the trailhead…..The multi-mode four-wheel steering system on Jeep Hurricane is designed to offer enthusiasts the next level of performance and unexpected maneuverability." It’s not hard to imagine that we’ll eventually see a military vehicle built off of this original design.
The Hurricane possesses an extremely powerful power system with not one but two 5.7-liter HEMI engines, one in the front and one in the back. Both engines deliver an impressive 335 horses for a total of 670 hp. The Hurricane set-up uses the Chrysler Group’s Multi-Displacement System which allows it to run on 4, 8, 12 or all 16 cylinders enabling it to adjust for speed, power and torque giving the driver ultimate power train control. The Hurricane is responsive and can go from 0 to 60 in less than five seconds!
The power is transferred through a central transfer case with split axles and has a mechanically controlled four-wheel torque distribution system. The suspensions, both front and rear, are short/long arm independent with 20 inches of travel, featuring coilover shocks with remote reservoirs.
One of the most impressive features of the Hurricane is its zero turning radius, which enables the vehicle to turn virtually in a circle in place! This is all thanks to a skid steer capability and toe steer, which is the ability to turn both front and rear tires inward. The Jeep concept vehicle has two types of 4-wheel steering: the traditional method with the rear tires turning opposite of the front wheels and an innovative one in which all four wheels turn in the same direction. This actually allows the Jeep Hurricane to move sideways without changing where it is pointing.
Topping off all of this is the Hurricane’s fantastic ground clearance of 14.3 inches and impressive approach-departure angles of 64.0 and 86.7 degrees. It really is a go anywhere do anything vehicle.
The Hurricane also features an innovative way to combine body, power-train and suspension. The suspension along with the power-train is mounted directly to the one-piece carbon fiber reinforced body, eliminating the weight and need for a frame. The vehicles belly is protected and connected by an aluminum spine, which acts as a huge skid plate mechanism. This is a lightweight and structurally strong set-up.
The general public wasn;t the only ones who loved what they saw. The Jeep Hurricane won Autoweek’s “Most Fun” Concept award at the 2005 North American International Auto Show. As we noted earlier there were rumors that Daimler-Chrysler was toying with the idea of a limited production, but those rumors have died down amid the company’s statement that this was indeed a concept vehicle and that’s all (at least for now). Kids, however, will be able to enjoy the Hurricane as Fisher-Price has introduced an all-new Jeep Hurricane toy.
In addition, for learning about and ordering the latest innovation in Jeep aftermarket parts, great websites like http://www.xtremeterrain.com will illustrate what is new and offer a selection of affordable and high quality parts.
Now Is The Perfect Time To Buy A Jeep
Now Is The Perfect Time To Buy A Jeep
It seems like everyone I know likes the Jeep Wrangler, the timing is right to consider buying a newer used Wrangler. They are fun in the sun, 4 Wheel drive in the winter, and very capable off pavement. There is a large after market of parts available, which makes it easy to modify and upgrade.
I tell people I have a Jeep, and I love it. They ask what kind of Jeep, I say a Jeep Wrangler TJ, a Jeep Jeep? yes a Jeep Jeep. The Jeep Wrangler is one of the classic American cars, It seems like everyone has a jeep story, and everyone wants a Jeep Wrangler. The Jeep Wrangler has a great history starting with the military CJs then on to the CJ5, CJ7, the YJ, the TJ, and now the new 2007 JK model. Currently the DaimlerChrysler Corporation produces many different Jeeps but over the years they have stayed true to the open body 2 door small 4x4 Wrangler Jeep. Each year they make improvements and add capabilities, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a good example of a nice well furnished vehicle that is extremely capable right off the show room floor.
If you are not made of money, and cannot afford a brand new 2007 Rubicon Jeep, it's a good time to consider a Jeep Wrangler that is a few years old. The Wrangler TJ was produced from 1997-2006. This model was a very popular and the used market is flooded with lower mileage, clean, one owner Jeeps. I am not a car salesmen but I know every car on the market is gently used, and only driven to church on Sunday by a nice old lady. But beware when shopping for a Jeep some of them maybe nice and clean others may have been drive hard. Another reason the Jeep Wrangler TJ is a great value, is timing. The new model was just released and is in great demand at the dealerships, some dealers may have new 2006 models they want to sell cheap to make room for the new JK models.
Another thing to consider is the large after market of available parts to upgrade, and modify a Jeep. The Jeep TJ has been on the market for almost 10 years and in that time there has been a lot of really nice parts and accessories developed and refined for this model. Everything from full suspension systems, axle upgrades, tires, wheels, bumpers, racks, roll cages, and security systems. If you want a modified jeep, but don't want to pay full price for upgrades, do a bit of shopping around. I am sure you can find a Jeep with a lift kit, upgraded tires, and other accessories ready to go. Remember when you are buying a used vehicle the cost of the upgrades and modifications the previous owner made to the vehicle are severely depreciated. When shopping for a modified Jeep do a bit of research and talk to the previous owner about who did the upgrades, and how the Jeep was used, where the upgrade work was done, and how it was maintained. Jeeps that have been be heavily used off road will show signs of wear that a normal car won't. Look for scrapes and dents under on the underside of the frame, skid plates, and the rear gas tank skid plate. These could be a warning signs of future repair needs. A lot of Wranglers have been modified for looks and then spent most of the time driving in town and on the highway.
Once you are the proud owner of a new toy, there are lots of things you can do to upgrade and enjoy your new jeep. You can just take the top off and go for a summer cruise, or you if you are interested in major upgrades the parts and help is certainly available. Over the years I have helped a lot of my buddies, and answered a lot of questions, the most popular question is about about matching bigger tires and lift kits together. What size tires can I use with a 3 inch, or 4 inch lift, or what type of lift and work is needed to fit 33 or 35 inch tires? For more detailed answers to all these question check this Jeep TJ Lift Questions and Answers FAQ.
Like I said I have a 1999 Wrangler that I have done major modifications to, and I love it. It's a fun and function toy, that our family really enjoys. If you have always want a convertible, and you like Jeeps, but have been putting off buying one, now is a good time to take the leap. Before you know it you will be modifying the jeep, joining a local jeep club and 4 Wheeling every weekend. Go for it!
It seems like everyone I know likes the Jeep Wrangler, the timing is right to consider buying a newer used Wrangler. They are fun in the sun, 4 Wheel drive in the winter, and very capable off pavement. There is a large after market of parts available, which makes it easy to modify and upgrade.
I tell people I have a Jeep, and I love it. They ask what kind of Jeep, I say a Jeep Wrangler TJ, a Jeep Jeep? yes a Jeep Jeep. The Jeep Wrangler is one of the classic American cars, It seems like everyone has a jeep story, and everyone wants a Jeep Wrangler. The Jeep Wrangler has a great history starting with the military CJs then on to the CJ5, CJ7, the YJ, the TJ, and now the new 2007 JK model. Currently the DaimlerChrysler Corporation produces many different Jeeps but over the years they have stayed true to the open body 2 door small 4x4 Wrangler Jeep. Each year they make improvements and add capabilities, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a good example of a nice well furnished vehicle that is extremely capable right off the show room floor.
If you are not made of money, and cannot afford a brand new 2007 Rubicon Jeep, it's a good time to consider a Jeep Wrangler that is a few years old. The Wrangler TJ was produced from 1997-2006. This model was a very popular and the used market is flooded with lower mileage, clean, one owner Jeeps. I am not a car salesmen but I know every car on the market is gently used, and only driven to church on Sunday by a nice old lady. But beware when shopping for a Jeep some of them maybe nice and clean others may have been drive hard. Another reason the Jeep Wrangler TJ is a great value, is timing. The new model was just released and is in great demand at the dealerships, some dealers may have new 2006 models they want to sell cheap to make room for the new JK models.
Another thing to consider is the large after market of available parts to upgrade, and modify a Jeep. The Jeep TJ has been on the market for almost 10 years and in that time there has been a lot of really nice parts and accessories developed and refined for this model. Everything from full suspension systems, axle upgrades, tires, wheels, bumpers, racks, roll cages, and security systems. If you want a modified jeep, but don't want to pay full price for upgrades, do a bit of shopping around. I am sure you can find a Jeep with a lift kit, upgraded tires, and other accessories ready to go. Remember when you are buying a used vehicle the cost of the upgrades and modifications the previous owner made to the vehicle are severely depreciated. When shopping for a modified Jeep do a bit of research and talk to the previous owner about who did the upgrades, and how the Jeep was used, where the upgrade work was done, and how it was maintained. Jeeps that have been be heavily used off road will show signs of wear that a normal car won't. Look for scrapes and dents under on the underside of the frame, skid plates, and the rear gas tank skid plate. These could be a warning signs of future repair needs. A lot of Wranglers have been modified for looks and then spent most of the time driving in town and on the highway.
Once you are the proud owner of a new toy, there are lots of things you can do to upgrade and enjoy your new jeep. You can just take the top off and go for a summer cruise, or you if you are interested in major upgrades the parts and help is certainly available. Over the years I have helped a lot of my buddies, and answered a lot of questions, the most popular question is about about matching bigger tires and lift kits together. What size tires can I use with a 3 inch, or 4 inch lift, or what type of lift and work is needed to fit 33 or 35 inch tires? For more detailed answers to all these question check this Jeep TJ Lift Questions and Answers FAQ.
Like I said I have a 1999 Wrangler that I have done major modifications to, and I love it. It's a fun and function toy, that our family really enjoys. If you have always want a convertible, and you like Jeeps, but have been putting off buying one, now is a good time to take the leap. Before you know it you will be modifying the jeep, joining a local jeep club and 4 Wheeling every weekend. Go for it!
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 - On and Off Road Exhilaration
Call it MOPAR madness or call it sheer, ingenious automotive marketing and engineering, but whatever you decide to call the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, you must realize one thing: no production vehicle has effectively combined off road ruggedness with on road durability. Until the Grand Cherokee SRT8 came along that is. Yes, not since the GMC Typhoon has an SUV proven to be a highway dominator as well as an off road maven. However, the Jeep Cherokee SRT8 goes well beyond any 4x4 vehicle by delivering a versatile, pavement pounding, all-around SUV.
The folks at Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) group could not leave well enough alone. From the Neon to the Viper and from the 300C to the Ram pickup truck, no model has been too sacred to receive a proper work over from the team. First it was a bevy of Dodge models, then it was the Chrysler 300C, but no Jeep model had yet been targeted for the group's overhaul. The Grand Cherokee however was past due as fond memories of the GMC Typhoon likely played a part in the decision to inject "SRT steroids" into a widely acclaimed Jeep model. Indeed, the SRT group knew that 0 to 60 in five seconds with the Grand Cherokee would beat the Typhoon's numbers by about four tenths of a second, easily making the Jeep model the all time leader on the road as it is already off the road.
Much like the full size SRT cars sold by Dodge and Chrysler, a 6.1L Hemi V8 was the engine of choice for the SRT team tasked with building the beefy Jeep. With 420 h.p. and 420 lb.-ft of torque, the burly Hemi would serve duty in the Grand Cherokee SRT8 along with 20 inch Goodyear performance tires, Bilstein shocks, four piston Brembo brakes, a Quadra-Trac On-Demand four wheel drive system, and a capable five speed automatic transmission. Indeed, when the project was completed, the SRT8 was paired against the Porsche Cayenne SUV and the Jeep won!
If the SRT8 isn't fast enough for you or if you want to experience a rich, deep tone while driving, then the aftermarket parts industry has just what you need.
Magnaflow Exhaust has developed a performance exhaust system that pairs well with the Grand Cherokee SRT8. Developed from airliner quality stainless steel, a Magnaflow Exhaust delivers more horsepower, frees up more torque, and provides a rich tone not found on the typical Jeep exhaust system.
When it comes to air intake systems, Dubair and Airaid have induction systems that work great with your engine. Dirt is filtered out and cool air is invited in to deliver more horsepower, enhanced torque, while offering a deep, throaty tone that is certain to inspire you.
Naturally, the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 has something that neither the current day Porsche Cayenne or the long since past GMC Typhoon could offer: thorough off roading capabilities. Like all Jeep SUVs, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 is trail rated so you get the best 4x4 capabilities matched to its top notch road competency. A true competitor no matter where you take it: the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8!
Copyright 2006-2015 - Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance writer who writes for a variety of websites, blog, print publications and related works. Please visit Matt's Musings, his personal blog discussing a variety of topics including SEO tips, freelance writing, politics, trends, etc.
The folks at Chrysler's Street and Racing Technology (SRT) group could not leave well enough alone. From the Neon to the Viper and from the 300C to the Ram pickup truck, no model has been too sacred to receive a proper work over from the team. First it was a bevy of Dodge models, then it was the Chrysler 300C, but no Jeep model had yet been targeted for the group's overhaul. The Grand Cherokee however was past due as fond memories of the GMC Typhoon likely played a part in the decision to inject "SRT steroids" into a widely acclaimed Jeep model. Indeed, the SRT group knew that 0 to 60 in five seconds with the Grand Cherokee would beat the Typhoon's numbers by about four tenths of a second, easily making the Jeep model the all time leader on the road as it is already off the road.
Much like the full size SRT cars sold by Dodge and Chrysler, a 6.1L Hemi V8 was the engine of choice for the SRT team tasked with building the beefy Jeep. With 420 h.p. and 420 lb.-ft of torque, the burly Hemi would serve duty in the Grand Cherokee SRT8 along with 20 inch Goodyear performance tires, Bilstein shocks, four piston Brembo brakes, a Quadra-Trac On-Demand four wheel drive system, and a capable five speed automatic transmission. Indeed, when the project was completed, the SRT8 was paired against the Porsche Cayenne SUV and the Jeep won!
If the SRT8 isn't fast enough for you or if you want to experience a rich, deep tone while driving, then the aftermarket parts industry has just what you need.
Magnaflow Exhaust has developed a performance exhaust system that pairs well with the Grand Cherokee SRT8. Developed from airliner quality stainless steel, a Magnaflow Exhaust delivers more horsepower, frees up more torque, and provides a rich tone not found on the typical Jeep exhaust system.
When it comes to air intake systems, Dubair and Airaid have induction systems that work great with your engine. Dirt is filtered out and cool air is invited in to deliver more horsepower, enhanced torque, while offering a deep, throaty tone that is certain to inspire you.
Naturally, the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 has something that neither the current day Porsche Cayenne or the long since past GMC Typhoon could offer: thorough off roading capabilities. Like all Jeep SUVs, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 is trail rated so you get the best 4x4 capabilities matched to its top notch road competency. A true competitor no matter where you take it: the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8!
Copyright 2006-2015 - Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance writer who writes for a variety of websites, blog, print publications and related works. Please visit Matt's Musings, his personal blog discussing a variety of topics including SEO tips, freelance writing, politics, trends, etc.
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Jeep Comanche - The Last Jeep Pickup!
The Jeep Comanche was built from 1986 through 1992. It was introduced by the American Motors Corporation (AMC) in 1986, but then AMC and it's Jeep Division were bought out by the Chrysler Corporation who began distributing the mid-sized truck officially in 1987.
The fact that Dodge pickup trucks are also Chrysler products made it difficult for the Jeep newcomer to compete with the established Dodge line especially the Dodge Dakota which was also available in 4 wheel drive.
Also, Jeep sales had been declining with the slow death of American Motors Corp. and now it was up to Chrysler to decide what to do with their new division...but especially the Jeep Comanche.
The Comanche pickup was built on the successful Jeep Cherokee platform sharing most major drive train and even some body/interior parts.
I have always felt that the Comanche truck was a handsome looking pickup, as well as being a good size between the compact and full-sized pickups throughout the spectrum of American and Foreign entries.
I currently own an original 1987 Jeep Comanche 4x4 long bed with a 5 spd. standard and the first of the 4.0 Liter engines. I thoroughly enjoy my truck...and have loved most Jeeps for quite some time now. This truck has plenty of power and will go anywhere it is pointed...especially in rough driving conditions.
My truck is smooth on the highway and handles dirt, rocks, mud, snow and ice as well. There are no power windows, seats or locks anywhere on this workhorse.
Chrysler/Jeep has been talking for several years now about building a production pickup to fill the long gap since the Jeep Comanche. In 2005 they came out with the Jeep Gladiator Concept prototype which will knock your socks off. This is one nice looking pickup built on the Wrangler Unlimited platform.
In the meantime, while awaiting new Jeep Pickup blood from Chrysler...there are some nice Comanches still on the road and some are even available to good homes. They can only become rarer with time.
So...grab one up...take care of it...and enjoy the Jeep Experience!
You can see more about the Jeep Comanche as well as a few pictures of mine at http://www.4-the-love-of-jeeps.com/jeep-comanche.html
The fact that Dodge pickup trucks are also Chrysler products made it difficult for the Jeep newcomer to compete with the established Dodge line especially the Dodge Dakota which was also available in 4 wheel drive.
Also, Jeep sales had been declining with the slow death of American Motors Corp. and now it was up to Chrysler to decide what to do with their new division...but especially the Jeep Comanche.
The Comanche pickup was built on the successful Jeep Cherokee platform sharing most major drive train and even some body/interior parts.
I have always felt that the Comanche truck was a handsome looking pickup, as well as being a good size between the compact and full-sized pickups throughout the spectrum of American and Foreign entries.
I currently own an original 1987 Jeep Comanche 4x4 long bed with a 5 spd. standard and the first of the 4.0 Liter engines. I thoroughly enjoy my truck...and have loved most Jeeps for quite some time now. This truck has plenty of power and will go anywhere it is pointed...especially in rough driving conditions.
My truck is smooth on the highway and handles dirt, rocks, mud, snow and ice as well. There are no power windows, seats or locks anywhere on this workhorse.
Chrysler/Jeep has been talking for several years now about building a production pickup to fill the long gap since the Jeep Comanche. In 2005 they came out with the Jeep Gladiator Concept prototype which will knock your socks off. This is one nice looking pickup built on the Wrangler Unlimited platform.
In the meantime, while awaiting new Jeep Pickup blood from Chrysler...there are some nice Comanches still on the road and some are even available to good homes. They can only become rarer with time.
So...grab one up...take care of it...and enjoy the Jeep Experience!
You can see more about the Jeep Comanche as well as a few pictures of mine at http://www.4-the-love-of-jeeps.com/jeep-comanche.html
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