Wednesday, December 14, 2011

2011 JEEP Patriot | jeep pictures |

2011 JEEP Patriot
JEEP PICTURES
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2011 JEEP Patriot
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Jeep Patriot

Chrysler Group LLC released images of the new 2011 Jeep Patriot, the affordable compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) that offers consumers segment-leading capability and unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy, along with classic, rugged Jeep styling.

Jeep Patriot's classic exterior styling and capability are enhanced for 2011 with new front and rear fascias, a body-color grille, and an increased 4x4 ride height. Ride-and-handling is refined courtesy of retuned steering and suspension systems. Interior enhancements round out the new-for-2011 features, and include significantly upgraded touch points.

"Patriot boasts class-leading 4x4 capability and unsurpassed fuel economy, and a host of safety features in a fun and affordable package - a combination that only Jeep can offer," said Mike Manley, President and CEO - Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "For 2011, Jeep Patriot is even more appealing to consumers, thanks to rugged new exterior styling, interior enhancements and refinements to the suspension and steering systems."

New-for-2011 Jeep Patriot exterior highlights include an aggressive new front fascia with standard fog lamps positioned inside the headlamps; a new rear fascia that extends lower than on previous models; a body-color grille; new available 17-inch wheels; four new colors and 4x4 ride height that has been increased by 1 inch.

Interior upgrades for the 2011 Jeep Patriot include new soft touch front-door trim panels with a padded upper surface; new center armrest; a new Jeep steering wheel with integrated controls that allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, hands-free phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel; new cloth interior, with premium cloth bucket seats in the front; standard speed control on all models; new backlighting of door switches, door locks, windows and power mirror controls and standard automatic temperature control on the Latitude X model.

Available as a stand-alone option on all models for 2011 is the Uconnect® Voice Command with Bluetooth for hands-free calling and music/radio/SIRIUS satellite radio control.

The 2011 Jeep Patriot offers customers more capability than any other vehicle in the compact SUV class. Capability features include low-range mode which generates a best-in-class 19:1 crawl ratio, brake traction control, 19-inch water fording capability, Hill Descent Control, 4x4 Lock shift-on-the-fly which sends 50 percent of torque to front and rear wheels, and a maximum tow rating of 2,000 lbs. The Jeep Patriot also boasts a retuned suspension for 2011, with higher spring and damping rates, added rebound springs, and an increased diameter of the rear sway bar. Despite these numerous capability features, the 2011 Jeep Patriot boasts unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy in its segment.

A 2010 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick, the Jeep Patriot for 2011 is loaded with more than 30 standard safety and security features, thoughtful functionality and best-in-class off-road capability with Freedom Drive II, offering tremendous value for consumers that desire an SUV to accommodate their active lifestyle at an affordable price.

Offered with front-wheel- or four-wheel-drive, Jeep Patriot is available in three configurations - Sport, Latitude and Latitude X.

Built at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill., the new 2011 Jeep Patriot models arrive in Jeep showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2010.

2007 JEEP Trailhawk Concept pictures

2007 JEEP Trailhawk Concept
JEEP PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits


2007 JEEP Trailhawk Concept
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Trailhawk Concept

The Jeep® Trailhawk concept merges the spectrum of the Jeep brand by combining the core off-road features of the new body-on-frame four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with the refined sophistication of an all-new on-road open-air concept vehicle, providing a unique and fresh expression for Jeep. Built off the new Wrangler platform, the Jeep Trailhawk is a more refined highway cruiser without sacrificing any of Jeep's legendary off-road capabilities.

"The key to the look of the Trailhawk," said Nick Vardis, Principal Exterior Designer, "is the vehicle's distinctive proportions, due in part to its 116-inch wheelbase. The dash-to-front-axle dimension is dramatically long, giving the vehicle a sense of forward motion, while the front and rear overhangs are tight and abbreviated."

Vardis said the body side is muscular and broad-shouldered, with the sheet metal pulled into shape, much like a drawn arrow in the bow of a skilled archer. Even the pillars are pulled back. The forward motion of the body is further accented by the drive of the raising beltline.

The stance is broad, and the wheels, pushed to the corners of the vehicle, are enclosed in robust flares dramatically offset from the body. Partly trapezoidal in shape, yet not asymmetrical, these angular, crisply-contoured wheel flares reinterpret one of Jeep's fundamental design cues.

"The flares are stretched and pulled taut at one end," Vardis said. "Each presents a 'long side' angled toward the center of the body."

The body in turn tapers toward the front in plan view to expose more of the flares and accent the wide stance. The flares enclose large 22-inch, five-spoke wheels, each with a hefty 34-inch overall diameter. The specially-crafted tires are accented by a red stripe, with the red color repeated on the exposed brake calipers.

The lower body, which kicks outward along the bottoms of the doors, intersects the flares crisply. Tucked beneath this horizontal element is a recessed running board, accented by a silver molding. A tall trapezoidal vent, located at the front fender-front door cut line, is home to the circular Trail Rated badge.

The Trailhawk's long hood is fronted by a signature seven-slot Jeep grille angled rearward to match the lean-back surface of the forward flares, with the slots filled with a mesh texture. Bracketed between the grille and the flares, the chamfered headlamps mimic the lean-back stance. Beneath their clear flush lenses, HID projector beam quad lamps nestled into twin "telescopic" polished aluminum barrels light the way forward while LEDs, configured in parallel stripes provide park and turn signals.

"The main headlamp units are cropped diagonally across the top," said Vardis. "They peer out from an angled brow, giving the vehicle its bold, sinister look. In front view, the left and right lamps evoke the hooded eyes of a bird of prey.

"Like other concepts, we first viewed the math surface of the grille and headlamps together in the computer" added Vardis. "We immediately noticed the hawkish expression, hence the name 'Trailhawk.'"

The taillamps mimic the look of the headlamps, including the striped turn signals, with the surface of the liftgate carved away.

The vehicle's upper structure is set onto the lower body, encased by a crisp, chamfered 360-degree molding that runs around the greenhouse, accenting the high, arching beltline. At the base of the windshield is a seven-slot cowl screen that reprises the grille. The body is painted in Argent Pearl high-gloss, with the flares and lower body a slightly darker low-gloss variant.

The side windows retract fully into the body, leaving no B-pillar above the belt, while the diagonal quarter windows are also fully retractable. Gray-tinted twin longitudinal glass panels over the first- and second-row seats and the glass panel over the cargo compartment are removable, as is the swing-up backlight. With all the glass lowered and removed, the Trailhawk offers occupants virtually the same open-air ambience as a typical soft top Jeep. The fixed central spine contains overhead lighting and several integrated storage bins.

"The Jeep Trailhawk interior emphasizes the vehicle's open air-freedom, inviting elements of the exterior theme into the interior,"said Cliff Wilkins, responsible for the interior design. "Tough mechanical elements which evoke exterior details are contrasted with sophisticated materials and finishes to give a modern, rugged, purposeful interior while delivering a premium off-road experience."

The four-passenger interior is dominated by two major design elements —the cross-car instrument panel (I/P) form and a full-length central spine which forms the floor console. The AC outlets, center stack compass/inclinometer, and the dimensional, double-deck "biplane" gauges are housed in circular casings having the appearance of machined aluminum, with detailing matching headlamp surrounds. The two-tone leather-wrapped aluminum steering wheel features vertical individual switches for lights and speed control.

Riding the transmission tunnel, the console's raised walls create a full-length open bin, handy for the storage of sundry items. Within the console's side rails, two front/rear combination armrest/storage bin modules, movable via concealed tracks, can be positioned fore-aft at the occupants' discretion. Using the familiar touchpad technology of laptop computers, a flip-out pad for the remote control fold-away flat screen navigation unit is housed in the forward armrest.

"The open console's unique utility is enhanced by the relocation of the transfer case 'Terrain Selector' switch to the center stack of the I/P," said Wilkins. "Also, there is the use of an electronic gear selector/park brake lever mounted to the right side of the steering column to continue this effect."

Additional storage is available forward of the drop-open center stack control module, and in the lower door trim panels.

The driver and three passengers can relax in individual premium leather seating in Bark Black and Firewood Orange. The vehicle's floor is a durable spray-finish with integrated non-slip heel pads, practical for all-weather use.

In the cargo area, each quarter panel houses a removable, portable "audio pod" sound system. Handsome in their rectangular dark gray cases accented with silver circular speaker bezels, each "pod" is fitted with a dock for an MP3 player. For carrying of first aid or road hazard gear, jerry-can style boxes in easy-to-find Firewood Orange are mounted forward of the speaker "pods."

The utility of the cargo area is enhanced by a drop-down tailgate featuring integral concealed storage, four cup holders, and a sliding Load 'N Go cargo tray with movable partitions that roll rearward for easy retrieval of stored items.

"One of the most remarkable things about the interior," concludes Wilkins, "is that it was designed and surfaced entirely electronically — there were no traditional sketches or 3-D models. Even so, the interior turned out just as we had envisioned."

2007 JEEP Compass UK Version pictures

2007 JEEP Compass UK Version
JEEP PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits


2007 JEEP Compass UK Version
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Compass UK Version

The Jeep brand is expanding into new territory with the all-new Jeep Compass - a modern-styled compact Jeep that delivers a competitive package of size, performance and fuel economy.

The Compass extends the Jeep brand to compete for the first time in the compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) segment and is the first Jeep vehicle to offer fuel economy in excess of 43 mpg, on the combined cycle with its diesel engine, which is best in class. Compass will also be the Jeep brand's first front-wheel-drive-based product and also the first with a fully independent suspension for comfortable on-road ride and handling.

Peter Lambert, Managing Director of Chrysler Group UK, said: "The Jeep Compass is designed to reach younger and female customers who may not have previously considered the brand but value the distinctive Jeep look and see four-wheel drive as a must-have on their daily drive. Customers are increasingly interested in family hatchbacks with four-wheel drive systems as they offer better handling and enhanced safety on the road.

"The new Jeep Compass offers a roomy interior, a choice of fuel efficient diesel and petrol engines and an all-new Freedom Drive 4WD system in a package the size of a Ford Focus."

Freedom Drive I is a full-time, active four-wheel-drive system that offers the driver tangible benefits in every day driving conditions such as wet and icy tarmac.

"This family hatchback sized car represents a new chapter in the history of the Jeep brand - the compact 4x4 segment in Western Europe is expected to increase to nearly 400,000 units by 2010, and this new car-based four-wheel drive vehicle means the Jeep brand is ideally placed to meet this growing demand."

"The whole compact-4x4 segment is shifting - our competitors are pricing themselves out of the sub-£20,000 segment and we aim to fill this space this year."

In the UK the Jeep Compass Limited model will launch in May 2007 with a VW-sourced 2.0-litre six-speed manual diesel engine and 2.4-litre petrol engine with a five-speed manual or a CVT automatic gearbox. The Jeep Patriot shares the Compass platform and engines, but has a more traditional Jeep look and design. The Jeep Patriot Sport and Jeep Patriot Limited models launch in July 2007 and will be the new entry-level price point for the Jeep brand (pricing to be confirmed). The Jeep Compass will be priced from £17,995.

All Jeep Compass models are covered by the comprehensive Jeep warranty scheme, which provides a three-year/60,000 mile mechanical warranty, seven-year anti-corrosion warranty and 12 months European roadside assistance.

DESIGN

Sleek and sophisticated, the all-new Jeep® Compass broadens the global appeal of the Jeep brand by attracting new buyers who may not have previously considered the brand. Jeep design falls into two categories: Jeep Classic and Jeep Modern. Jeep Compass epitomises Jeep Modern design and introduces it to the compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) segment.

The Jeep Compass features a fresh look with traditional round Jeep headlamps and seven-slot grille, muscular body-side flares, a strong stance and sweeping roofline, combined with the versatility of five doors. It is designed to appeal to customers who want four-wheel-drive capability, combined with competitive fuel economy and an attractive price point.

"Compass represents a new adventure for the Jeep brand," said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President of Design, Chrysler Group. "Compass fulfils the demands of customers who want a Jeep that is modern, stylish and refined, but still offers the credibility and characteristics associated with the Jeep brand name."

Modern Take on a Classic

This all-new compact SUV is firmly rooted in its Jeep design heritage, featuring the brand's signature seven-slot grille, round headlamps and trapezoidal wheel openings. However, there also are several modern design twists that distinguish Compass from traditionally styled Jeep vehicles.

Jeep Compass features an all-new silhouette, with a steeply raked windscreen, expressive bonnet and deep fascia, which combine to give it a modern, yet capable appearance. The profile of the windscreen, front fascia and A-pillar were developed in the wind tunnel for aerodynamics to improve fuel economy and to reduce wind noise. The bonnet is stamped from steel and includes a small lip on the trailing edge to help direct airflow over the windscreen wipers. Standard round fog lamps set within the fascia add a touch of sportiness and improve visibility in bad weather.

Jeep Compass' side profile features uniquely sculptured fender forms delivering a fresh, athletic interpretation of the traditional Jeep trapezoidal wheel flares. Compass rides on a 2635mm (103.7-in.) wheelbase with a 1520mm (59.8-in.) wide track. The wheel placement enhances vehicle stability, vehicle dynamics and ride quality.

Large wheels and tyres combined with the Compass' suspension design contribute to 200mm (7.9 in.) of ground clearance. The low-profile design of the rear suspension also maximises rear seat and cargo room.

Jeep Compass' exterior components are both sophisticated and functional. The Compass Limited model features standard bright body-side moulding. Large, black exterior mirrors tuned in the wind tunnel maximise the driver's field of view, while minimising drag and wind noise. While the front door handles are placed on the sheet metal, the rear door handles are mounted on the C-pillar to preserve the character line that is stamped in the rear doors. Black graphic appliqués on the centre pillars and the flush-mounted rear quarter glass, combined with the black belt moulding and black roof-rail moulding, provide the illusion of a single window opening from A- to D-pillar.

An integrated black full-length roof rack and rail moulding with a soft edge channels water over the roof and provides a smooth fit and finish. The roof rack is functional and features five tie-downs for securing items.

Jeep Compass' functional spoiler, tuned for aerodynamics, also maximises the rear view and extends the vehicle's roofline. A six-light-emitting diode (LED) centre high-mounted stop lamp and washer nozzle are integrated into the spoiler.

A one-piece steel liftgate provides easy access to Jeep Compass' spacious interior. The liftgate construction includes a one-piece steel inner and outer panel for structural integrity. It gets its unique shape from the light bar that spans across the back of the vehicle. The body-colour light bar is deeply dished and houses lights for the license plate. Modular taillamps fill the corners, and the Compass name is embossed on the rear fascia. A black step pad with a non-skid surface further enhances the Compass' utility and practicality.

All Jeep Compass models will be available in Steel Blue Metallic Clear Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat and Black Clear Coat.

Flexible, Functional Interior with Clever Innovations

Jeep Compass' interior combines functional style, comfort and versatility in an appealing and surprisingly roomy package. Compass' flexible interior gives buyers the capability to do more in terms of seating passengers and storing gear.

A command-of-the-road seating position that is 5.1cm (2 in.) higher than Dodge Caliber gives Jeep Compass drivers an added feeling of control.

All models feature a two-toned leather dark slate/pastel slate colour interior, clever features in the instrument panel and centre console, and versatile seating and storage. Jeep Compass includes a front passenger seat that folds forward to create a table-like surface for versatility and makes way for storing gear - everything from a 2-metre (8-foot) ladder to skis or snowboards. Folding the 60/40 split rear seatbacks forward creates a nearly flat load surface, maximising storage in the Compass. The fold-flat rear seats also recline to provide added flexibility and comfort.

Jeep Compass has nearly 100cm (39.4 in.) of rear seat leg room and up to 1277 litres (45.1 cu. ft.) of cargo space with the rear seats folded flat.

In addition to interior spaciousness and flexibility, Jeep Compass has many clever and unique interior features available that add functionality for a compact SUV, including:

    * Supplemental side-curtain air bags
    * Optional nine-speaker Boston Acoustics Premium Sound Group with subwoofer and includes two articulating speakers packaged in the liftgate. When the liftgate is open, the speakers can swing down to face rearward and play music to augment outdoor activities
    * Dual-purpose, self-recharging removable cargo lamp, which is mounted in the headliner above the cargo area and can snap out of the bezel to serve as a flashlight
    * Sliding centre armrest moves forward 7.6cm (3 in.) to accommodate shorter drivers. The armrest lid includes a unique flip pocket for storing a mobile phone or an MP3 player
    * Fold-flat front passenger seat creates a table-like surface for versatility
    * Flexible 60/40 split fold-flat rear seats that also recline
    * UltraFloor™ durable vinyl load floor is both removable and washable

Jeep Compass' cluster area is large for a compact SUV and features four gauges. The Compass Limited model features a painted silver bezel. Cluster gauges feature black with white graphics and orange pointers, as well as LED for illumination.

The instrument panel provides convenient storage compartments for added utility. The glove box door swings down to provide a large, single bin for storing the owner's manual and other documents out of sight, while an open bin above the glove box provides additional easy-to-reach storage space.

The centre stack, which features a Silver Alloy painted bezel to complement the instrument panel, includes air registers that can be closed so there is no perceivable air flow, as well as the radio, climate controls, the switch bank for optional heated seats and the transaxle shifter. These components are all within easy reach of the driver and passenger. A cubby for storing small items is located beneath the radio.

Jeep Compass also features a gated shifter, a feature typically found on premium vehicles. The shifter features a black and bright shifter cap with the Jeep name featured in the centre with styling details similar to the shifter in the Jeep Commander. The bezel includes an illuminated PRNDL indicator to make it easy to see when driving at night.

ENGINE PERFORMANCE

Fuel economy is a key factor in the four-cylinder gasoline engine market. The Chrysler Group World Engine family, which is based on a joint venture between DaimlerChrysler Corp., Hyundai Motor Co. and Mitsubishi Motors Corp., is targeted to improve fuel efficiency by five per cent compared with the engines they replace - rivalling the best four-cylinder engines in the world.

The Jeep Compass is available with the 2.4-litre petrol World Engine with dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT), which helps optimise the torque curve at all speeds. This World Engine, with 168 bhp and 220 Nm (162 lb.-ft.) of torque, produces more power, better fuel economy and a smoother, quieter ride than engines without dual VVT. The 2.4-litre engine places Compass amongst the best in the segment for power, torque, top speed, acceleration and towing capacity, all with fuel economy that is comparable to lower displacement engines.

"The World Engine program allows us to build premium features into the Jeep Compass' power plant without a premium price," Lyons said. "We set high targets and achieved those targets to meet customers' high demands for fuel economy, refinement, durability, quality and performance."

Chrysler Group brought its engineering expertise to the World Engine program in the areas of cylinder port and intake manifold design using advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics tools. Chrysler Group engineers led the development work on dual VVT, as well as an integrated 2:1 oil pump/balance shaft assembly. Chrysler Group engineers also refined the engines for exceptional smoothness and sound quality, resulting in a pleasant engine feel and sound for the customer.

2.0-litre Turbo Diesel Engine

The 2.0-litre engine is a state-of-the-art, direct-injection turbo diesel power plant with high-pressure fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder. The injectors are electronically controlled, leading to high power and torque and optimal fuel efficiency. The turbo diesel engine positions the Jeep Compass competitively in its class for power, torque, top speed, acceleration, towing capacity and fuel economy. Maximum power is 138 bhp, and peak torque is 310 Nm (229 lb.-ft.).

"Advanced diesel engine technology is readily available and can dramatically reduce the amount of crude oil consumed worldwide," Lyons added. "European customers especially want modern diesel engines with outstanding performance and efficiency, so from the beginning of the program, our engineers included a diesel engine as part of Jeep Compass' powertrain plan."

Manual Transaxles Add Efficiency and Sportiness

Jeep Compass' 2.4-litre petrol World Engine is mated as standard to a Magna Driveline T355 five-speed manual transaxle with overdrive and synchronised in all forward ratios. The 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine is paired with an Aisin BG6 six-speed manual transaxle with a three-shaft gear train.

Both manual transaxles provide high performance, durability, quiet operation and smooth shifting. Fuel economy is also enhanced through efficient operation. For both, the shifter is packaged in the centre stack within easy reach of the driver.

New-generation Continuously Variable Transaxle Improves Fuel Economy

The 2.4-litre petrol World Engine is also available with an optional automatic Continuously Variable Transaxle (CVT). The all-new Jeep Compass uses the newest generation of CVT, offering several advantages compared with previous CVTs.

The Jeep Compass' CVT continuously varies the transaxle ratio, providing an infinite number of gear ratios and allowing the engine to stay in its most efficient operating range. The transaxle uses two "V" pulleys and a steel push belt to vary the input speed to output speed ratio instead of traditional discrete gear ratios activated by clutches or bands.

Through the use of electronic controls, Jeep Compass' CVT provides a familiar engine feel while delivering improved fuel economy. For example, drivers will experience an appropriate rise in engine RPM during acceleration rather than an instant rise to the maximum engine RPM.

"Our engineers have calibrated Compass' CVT to provide a throttle response that feels very natural to the driver," said Lyons. "We've also created an available Auto Stick feature that gives the driver manual control and the feeling of six stepped gears," Lyons added.

Chrysler Group's CVT contributes a six-eight per cent improvement in fuel economy compared with a traditional four-speed automatic transaxle. Eliminating upshifts allows the transaxle to engage the torque converter clutch almost immediately when accelerating and to keep it engaged throughout speed changes. This eliminates torque converter slippage common in stepped transaxles and results in more efficient operation, especially during city driving.

The CVT also improves vehicle performance compared with a traditional automatic transaxle. Optimised gear ratios, especially in the 30-60 mph range, improve Jeep Compass' passing manoeuvres and contribute to a responsive feel and ultimate smoothness.

2007 JEEP Compass | jeep pictures |

2007 JEEP Compass
JEEP PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits


2007 JEEP Compass
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Compass

The Jeep® brand is expanding into new territory with the all-new 2007 Jeep Compass — a modern-styled Jeep vehicle that delivers fun, freedom, utility and Jeep 4x4 capability. Jeep Compass also provides exceptional fuel economy, a long list of safety features and interior flexibility, all at a great value.

Based on the Jeep Compass concept first introduced at the 2005 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, the 2007 Jeep Compass is an all-new product that combines the packaging and functionality of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV) with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car or small pickup. Compass is the Jeep brand's first front-wheel-drive-based product with a fully independent suspension for comfortable on-road ride and handling and fun-to-drive characteristics. Jeep Compass will be available in both front- and four-wheel drive.

"Compact and nimble, Jeep Compass brings a new sense of adventure, performance, fuel-economy and value not expected in a compact SUV," said Jeff Bell, Vice President — Jeep, Chrysler Group. "With Compass, Jeep continues to grow by offering a modern-styled Jeep designed to reach consumers who may not have previously considered the brand. Jeep Compass provides 4x4 confidence, brand cachet and the inspiring sense of excitement and adventure that only Jeep can offer," Bell added.

The 2007 Jeep Compass and Jeep Compass Limited models will be available in U.S. dealerships and global volume markets in the third quarter of 2006.

2007 JEEP Commander UK Version pictures, review

2007 JEEP Commander UK Version
JEEP PICTURES
Review, specifications, features and benefits


2007 JEEP Commander UK Version
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Commander UK Version

Classic in design, Jeep Commander is the first of the Jeep family to offer standard three-row seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The nimble, rugged 4x4 is engineered to perform as only Jeep vehicles can, offering more capability, more flexibility and advanced safety and security technologies that are sure to appeal to international customers.

"Jeep Commander is the first seven-passenger 4x4 that is as capable as it is distinctive," said Thomas Hausch, Executive Director of International Sales and Marketing, Chrysler Group. "Commander expands and strengthens what is already an excellent lineup, consisting of Wrangler, Cherokee and Grand Cherokee, and initiates the expansion of the Jeep vehicle lineup that will take place during the second half of this decade."

In the UK, the Jeep Commander is available in two models - Predator and Limited - both with a Mercedes-Benz 3.0-litre diesel engine.

Modern interpretation of heritage design with rugged look and a premium interior The Jeep Commander's upright windscreen, backlight and rear end, as well as its more vertical body sides and side glass, embody the vehicle's classic Jeep styling. The side-view mirrors are also bold and purpose-built. Overall, Commander looks strong and confident because of its classic Jeep styling - upright and rugged. Commander engages the emotions because it is steeped in the heritage of Jeep design - integrating the past and present.

"The original Jeep Cherokee is an authentic, classic shape that is rooted in the public consciousness," said Donald A. Renkert, Senior Manager/Jeep Studio, Chrysler Group Product Design Office. "By reinterpreting that vehicle, and other classic Jeep vehicles of the past, the Jeep Commander elicits nods of recognition from consumers, even though it is a brand new vehicle. There is a sense of deja vu about the Commander that brings knowing smiles of satisfaction. It is all-new and timeless at once."

The satisfaction continues inside the vehicle, where great attention to detail is clearly evident. From the gear shift knob, to the four round gauges in the instrument cluster, to the new steering wheel, Jeep Commander is refined and uniquely Jeep in appearance.

The seats are supportive and comfortable and, for the first time in a Jeep, there are now three rows of them. With each row slightly higher than the one in front of it, this distinctive "theatre-style" arrangement improves forward visibility for every passenger and delivers an optimal all-round view. The second- and third-row seats fold forward to create a flat load floor. Jeep Commander is only 37 mm (1.5 in.) longer than the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee, even though it accommodates its three rows of seats. Since they share the same Jeep 4x4 systems, powertrains and wheelbase (2780 mm/109.4 in.), Commander is just as manoeuvrable and off-road capable as Grand Cherokee.

The Jeep Commander's stepped roof provides second- and third-row occupants with plenty of head room. Complementing the available front-mounted sun roof is Command-ViewTM the new and innovative skylights (complete with shades) over the second row of seats.

The lower portion of the dashboard panel is shared with Grand Cherokee, but the top section is all-new and prominently features four pairs of circular adjustable air vents and proudly displays 16 Allen head bolts (14 are functional) that also contribute to the mechanical, constructed look of the vehicle. Both the steering wheel centre and the gear selector knob present the Jeep logo framed in a bright ring with exposed simulated Allen bolt heads to continue and enhance the overall design theme. A precise four-dial instrument cluster with LED illumination features black gauges with white graphics and red pointers for reading ease in all conditions.

Seating seven in style

The Jeep Commander has "theatre-style" seating that enhances the functionality of its three-row, seven-passenger layout. The second-row seats are mounted 117.3 mm (4.62 in.) higher than the front row, and third row seats are 120.45 mm (4.74 in.) higher than the second row - to ensure all occupants enjoy an excellent view of the surrounding cityscape or countryside.

The second-row 40/20/40 split seats are engineered so the outer sections fold down and tumble forward to allow passengers entry or exit from the third row on either side of the vehicle. All three second-row seatbacks can be folded onto the cushions to form a flat-load area.

For maximum comfort, Jeep Commander has an available heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system in the third row. Fully independent of the front system, it feeds warmed or cooled air to a single floor-level outlet and two circular rotating outlets on each side of the rear trim.

As well as seating seven in style, the Jeep Commander accommodates amazing space for passengers and cargo. With seven on board, there is room for 212.4 litres of luggage. Folding the third-row seats expands the cargo space to 1027.9 litres and also folding the second row gives a total of 1939.7 litres.

Engineered to go anywhere, do anything

Class-leading off-road capability and on-road refinement were mandatory for the Jeep Commander. So the Jeep engineering team went to the head of the class: they provided Commander with the same 4x4 systems, suspension and powertrains as the award-winning Jeep Grand Cherokee, including an independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering.

"Jeep Grand Cherokee reset the SUV benchmark with its on-road refinement, off-road mastery and overall performance in key areas of customer satisfaction," said Hausch. "Now the seven-passenger Jeep Commander, with the 3.0-litre CRD V-6 engine is a compelling package for many customers in Europe and other international markets."

NEW ENGINES DELIVER PERFORMANCE AND POWER

The 3.0 CRD engine is a "next-generation" power unit from DaimlerChrysler producing class-leading levels of power and torque - giving it immense towing ability - with efficient fuel economy. Based on the latest Mercedes-Benz technology, Bosch high-pressure fuel injection (1600+ bar), a variable geometry turbocharger and four valves per cylinder, the new V-6 engine meets Euro 4 emissions standards. Additionally, the Jeep Commander's diesel emission system is equipped with a standard diesel particulate filter.

Maximum power is 160 kW (215 hp DIN) and peak torque is 510 N•m (376 lb.-ft.) from just 1600 to 4000 rpm. The accelerator pedal is modified to reduce transmission kick-downs during normal driving but still allow for full pedal travel when quicker acceleration is demanded by the driver.

TWO AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS OFFER PREMIUM REFINEMENT

The 3.0 CRD engine is mated to a five-speed W5A580 automatic transmission that offers smooth shifts and optimum fuel economy with the diesel engine.

This transmission features Electronic Range Select driver interactive shift control. The transmission provides fully automatic shifting in the "drive" position or the driver can manually select each gear sequentially by moving the shift lever left or right from the "drive" position. This gives the driver precise control to match any on-road or off-road driving conditions.

SOPHISTICATED SUSPENSION PROVIDES CONFIDENT RIDE AND HANDLING

The Jeep Commander shares its suspension and running gear with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This includes short- and long-arm front suspension that provides the driver with a greater sense of precision and control, and more precise steering, without compromising Commander's stalwart off-road performance. The tight turning diameter of 11.2 m provides for nimble handling.

The Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), which is standard, aids the driver in severe driving manoeuvres on any type of surface. ESP uses signals from sensors throughout the vehicle to determine the appropriate brake and throttle adjustments for directional stability.

CLASS-LEADING FOUR-WHEEL-DRIVE CAPABILITIES

Quadra-Drive II® is one of the most advanced four-wheel-drive transfer case systems available, providing Jeep Commander with best-in-class tractive capability. Electronic Limited Slip Differentials - front and rear - offer customers the ultimate in off-road capability. Quadra-Drive II provides electronic engagement of torque biasing for the front axle, as well as the rear. As a result, torque transfer is faster, and almost 100 percent of the torque can be distributed to any of the four wheels, a capability that is unique to Commander and Jeep Grand Cherokee.