One of our readers digs up some possible hints about the next-generation Wrangler. Page views are up at Jeep.com.
A post in JeepForum.com claims to have some inside information about the next generation Wrangler. Here's a snippet:
1) The new TK and TKL designs will be 2007 model year but will be introduced between January and August 2006, “when” depending entirely upon the construction progress of the new Toledo Jeep assembly plant (presently in the structural steel stage). The 4-door TKL version will be introduced first and 2007 model year production at the new facility will overlap the production of 2006 model year 2-door TJ and Unlimited TJ models at the current Toledo facility. The shorter 2-door TK’s will follow the TKL within 5 weeks. The original Jeep Toledo facility will eventually be demolished.
2) The 2-door TK will be approximately 6” wider than the TJ, and the wheelbase will be around 101”, similar to the Unlimited TJ. The 4-door TKL will share the general dimensions of the Gladiator concept, meaning about 6” wider than the TJ and with a wheelbase of 138”. (Don’t bemoan the larger dimensions, this will allow the factory to safely fit optional 33” diameter tires.) Two different packaged TKL versions will be initially available, these will be called Laredo and Rubicon. Three initial TK versions are planned, to be called SE/Sport/Rubicon.
3) Both TK and TKL will come in a single body version with full height doors and roll-up windows, integral roll cages, rear liftgate, and removable roof panels. The top options will represent solid or tinted transparent plastic – solid panels will be body paint color. Front fenders and rear fender flaress will be body-contrasting bolt-on plastic. Protective plastic body cladding will be used above the sills, save for Rubicon models which substitute diamond plate steel cladding. There is provision for storing the roof panels behind the rear seat.
Check out the entire thread.
Jeep.com Redesign Pays Off
Last year's redesign of Jeep.com has apparently paid off. From a DaimlerChrysler press release:
In a year in which Chrysler Group launched nine new products, brought to market innovative product features and reported strong sales, the Company also saw a sharp increase in consumer activity on its Chrysler.com, jeep.com and dodge.com Web sites in 2004. This followed a complete redesign of all three of its Web sites last year in an effort to offer consumers simplified usability, integrated help, better tools and up-to-date information in a fun and easy-to-use format.
The number of vehicle page views to Chrysler Group's Web sites improved by 87% last year, while online vehicle configurations grew by 138% and brochure requests jumped by 63%. In addition, access to online dealer activity surged, as well, with inventory searches up 64%, "Get a Dealer Quote" up 134% and "Locate a Dealer" up by 74%.
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