DaimlerChrysler may be considering adding a diesel model to the Grand Cherokee lineup.
AutomotiveNews.com (subscription required) is reporting that DaimlerChrysler is considering adding a diesel model to its Grand Cherokee lineup based on the early success of the CRD Liberty. Here's a snippet:
The Chrysler group may increase production of the diesel version of the Jeep Liberty, COO Tom LaSorda said last week.
The company is considering diesel versions of other vehicles based on the diesel Liberty's early success, he said. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a prime candidate.
In 2005, Jeep expects to build 5,000 diesel-powered Liberty CRDs. The Jeep Liberty is built at Chrysler's assembly plant in Toledo, Ohio. The 2.8-liter common rail diesel engine is built by VM Motori in Cento, Italy.
"If we need more, we're going to order more," LaSorda said about the Liberty. "I would assume, based on early indications, we'll have to increase some more. We can't keep them on the lots."
Producing a diesel Grand Cherokee wouldn't be much of a stretch for DaimlerChrysler, as they already have a diesel model for the European market.
Jeep Warranty Changes
One of our readers has heard that Chrysler might be changing their standard warranty from 3/36 bumper-to-bumper with 7/70 power train to 3/36 for bumper-to-bumper and power train. We haven't been able to confirm this yet, so if you know something about it, please let us know.
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