Jeep has a new high-end SUV up their sleeves. To be called the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, it will take on the likes of Range Rover and other premium SUVs.
The first hint was dropped back in 2012 at the Geneva motor show when it was announced that Grand Wagoneer nameplate would be making a return. Now, global brand director Michael Manley has confirmed that the new range-topper will have three rows of seats and square up against the likes of the upcoming new Land Rover Discovery as well as the Range Rover and Rangey Sport.
“Part of my plan,” confirmed Manly to Autocar magazine, “says there is space for us above the Grand Cherokee. I’ve always talked about Grand Wagoneer and that for me is a big focus and will fill out the brand at the top.”
On the horizon too is the the Maserati Levante – another SUV being developed by the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles group. Is there not some overlapping competition here as it also shares some componentry with the Grand Cherokee platform? No is the answer from Manly.
“Maserati and Jeep are two very different brands. I have zero sleepless nights about the launch of their vehicle. The Levante will play in a part of the market that Jeep is not playing in.”
From that we can read that the Maser is targeting the likes of Bentley and possibly a Rolls Royce SUV as its future competitors.
