Jeep brand history. Dimensions Jeep Grand Cherokee

12.08.2019

It is difficult to find a sane person in the world who could not talk about the Jeep. It's not just a car. This is an entire era. The brand has been fluttering for more than one decade, and the manufacturer regularly replenishes the model range with new samples that never cease to please their owners.

About company

So, "Jeep" is a company that is considered a branch of one of the largest automakers in America - Chrysler. Its main direction is the production of SUVs. The main assembly shops are located in Michigan, and to be more precise, in Detroit.

As for the history of this company, it goes back to the distant 40s of the last century. It all started with the fact that John Willis founded a company called the Overland Automotive Division. However, over time, the name was changed to Willys-Overland Motor Company.

Initially, the company produced military off-road vehicles capable of overcoming all sorts of obstacles on the roads and off-road. The first car was created in 1939. After some time, the army vehicle of this sample began to bear the name "Jeep". It was a masterpiece in the automotive industry of that time.

After the war, the company's engineers created a vehicle off-road for civilians based on an already existing army SUV. Already in 1970, the company became part of the American Motors auto concern, and after another 17 years, it became part of Chrysler.

The lineup

Through trial and error, Jeep has created many SUVs. In general, there are such series as:

As you can see, Jeep is a company that is constantly developing, replenishing the lineup with new, improved, powerful cars. To better understand what a Jeep is, it is worth considering in detail the lineup.

Jeep Cherokee

The updated model of this line debuted in early 2018. This significant event took place in Detroit international motor show. It's not just an SUV. This is the first restyling of the 5th generation, which was planned. Intrafactory model index - KL.

What has changed? The company's engineers focused on improving the technical stuffing. At the same time, the options were significantly expanded, as well as the design was improved. This modification of the Jeep car received the usual and calmer layout of the head lighting elements, presented in the form of several narrow blocks, slightly elongated and equipped with lensed optics and LED running gear. daytime lights reminiscent of original eyelashes.

But the radiator grille was made in the classic version. It is a set of rectangular vertical cutouts, framed by a chrome trim. As for the front bumper, it is different simple forms. At the bottom of this element is a trapezoidal air collector, prudently covered with a plastic grille.

It's hard not to notice the black body kit on the arches and bumper sills. It is also made of plastic. But thanks to this element, the Jeep Cherokee slightly increased visually in volume, which only strengthened the impression of contemplating such an SUV.

Dimensions Jeep Cherokee

Length - 4.624 m.
Width - 1,858 m.
Height - 1.683 m.
Wheelbase - 2.705 m.
Clearance - 0.222 m.
Trunk volume (with raised seats) - 412 liters.
The capacity of the trunk with the seats folded down is 1267 liters.

Specifications

After the modernization, the Jeep Cherokee was equipped with three completely different powertrains, a 9-speed gearbox, all-wheel drive or front-wheel drive. Thanks to this combination, Jeep Cherokee cars can be classified as universal. They are able to satisfy the needs of many motorists.

Basic versions are equipped with a 4-cylinder engine with a volume of 2360 cm 3. It puts out 180 hp. With. at 6400 rpm and 234 Nm of torque. After it comes a 2-liter 4-cylinder unit equipped with a pressurization system. It produces 270 hp. With. at 5250 rpm and 400 Nm of torque.

And the latest version is a V-shaped 6-cylinder engine with a volume of 3239 cm 3. The motor is capable of delivering 271 hp. With. at 6500 rpm and 316 Nm of torque.

An updated version of this representative of the Jeep brand appeared before the public in 2017 in New York. According to experts, this is one of the most powerful and extreme modifications. However, there were no major changes in appearance. It's hard not to notice brake calipers sports type. They were enlarged and also painted in acid colors. bright colors. In general, the appearance of the car turned out to be aggressive and dynamic, as well as technical filling.

Dimensions Jeep Grand Cherokee

Length - 4.822 m.
Width - 1.943 m.
Height - 1,724 m.
Wheelbase - 2.914 m.
Clearance - 0.205 m.
Trunk volume with raised seats - 457 liters.

Machine Specifications

This representative of the Jeep dealership is equipped with an 8-cylinder V-engine with a volume of 6166 cm 3. The car is capable of delivering 717 hp. with., thanks to the IHI screw compressor, at 6000 rpm. and 875 Nm of torque. All torque is taken over by an 8-speed automatic transmission. This is an all-wheel drive model, which, with a weight of 2.5 tons, can accelerate to 100 km / h in just 3.7 seconds.

This american jeep debuted in 2016 in Los Angeles. This is an SUV that can be attributed to the second generation. At one time, it was located in the same line with the Cherokee and Renegade. Distinguishing Compass from other models is not difficult. It is distinguished by stylish elongated elements of head lighting, elegant running lights. As for the radiator grille, it is made in the classic Jeep style - it consists of rectangular slots covered with a mesh. The nature of the modification is emphasized by the linings installed on the thresholds, bumper and wheel arches.

Dimensions Jeep Compass

Length - 4.394 m.
Width - 1,874 m.
Height - 1,641 m.
Wheelbase - 2.636 m.
Clearance - from 0.198 to 0.208 m.
The volume of the trunk with the seat backs up is 770 liters.
The capacity of the trunk with the seats folded down is 1693 liters.

Technical stuffing Jeep Compass

Jeep Compass can be equipped with manual or automatic transmission, all wheel drive or front wheel drive. As for the engine, it is always the same. It's a 4 cylinder petrol power unit, the volume of which is 2360 cm 3. Such a motor allows you to squeeze 180 hp out of an SUV. With. at 6400 rpm and 237 Nm of torque.

Despite the power of the vehicle, you should not expect much savings. Such a motor consumes a large number of fuel. Approximately 10.7 liters of gasoline are consumed per 100 km in city conditions with frequent braking and acceleration.

Jeep Wrangler

The country of origin of the "Jeep" of this line is America. The new SUV was presented to the general public in Los Angeles in the fall of 2017. This model applies to fourth generation. This is not a planned restyling. Jeep Wrangler differs significantly from its predecessors. Immediately striking is its neoclassical style, which has all the prerequisites of the very first army SUV "Willis".

This and round headlights, equipped with lens optics, and an elegant eyeliner for running LED lights, and a radiator grille made in the form of a large number of slots. Under the grille you can see power bumper with round fog lamps located in special recesses. In a word, the appearance of the model has many visual changes. However, similarities with other Jeep SUVs are still captured.

Dimensions Jeep Wrangler

Length - 4.237 m.
Width - 1.875 m.
Height - 1,868 m.
Wheelbase - 2.46 or 3.008 m.
Clearance - 0.246 or 0.274 m.
The volume of the trunk with the seat backs up is 897 liters.

Technical equipment Jeep Wrangler

Jeep Wrangler can be equipped with one of two types of powertrains, manual or automatic transmission, but only all-wheel drive. Thanks to this combination, the vehicle of this model can be considered a universal option that can conquer many motorists.

The basic configuration of the Jeep Wrangler is represented by a gasoline turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, the volume of which is 1995 cm 3. Thanks to the turbocharger, 270 hp can be squeezed out of an SUV of this line. With. at 5250 rpm and 400 Nm of torque. It is worth noting that such an engine is perfectly combined with an automatic 8-speed gearbox.

As for the top version of the Jeep Wrangler, it is equipped with an atmospheric gasoline V-shaped 6-cylinder engine with a volume of 3604 cm 3. Thanks to the displacement, as well as a modern fuel supply system, 285 liters can be squeezed out of an SUV. With. at 6400 rpm and 353 Nm of torque. Fuel consumption in this case is quite high. At 100 km, the Jeep Wrangler consumes 13.8 liters in urban conditions with frequent braking and acceleration. With a measured trip on the highway outside the city limits, this figure is 10.2 liters.

In 2014, public display on Geneva motor show was presented Jeep Renegade. It was his debut. Its difference lies in the fact that it was built on the basis of the Fiat-500X. In addition, models of power units were borrowed from the model. For this reason, the first production of the Jeep Renegade was launched outside the United States.

It is worth noting that this novelty has received a modern and stylish look. The front of the car is made in a classic style: two round headlights, an impressive radiator grille with slots located vertically, fog lights round shape, located in a kind of recesses.

Dimensions Jeep Renegade

Length - 4.236 m.
Width - 1.805 m.
Height - 1.667 m.
Wheelbase - 2,570 m.
Clearance - from 0.175 to 0.21 m.
Trunk volume with raised seatbacks - 351 liters.

Specifications Jeep Renegade

The basic equipment of the SUV is an atmospheric gasoline 4-cylinder engine, the volume of which is 1598 cm 3. From such a power unit, you can squeeze up to 110 liters. With. at 5500 rpm and 152 Nm of torque. Up to 100 km / h, such an SUV can accelerate in 11.8 seconds. As for fuel consumption, for 100 km in the city with frequent braking and acceleration, the car spends up to 7.8 liters of fuel, and with measured movement on a suburban highway, it will take about 5.9 liters. Such an engine works in combination with a 5-speed manual gearbox.

The top modification is equipped with a gasoline atmospheric 4-cylinder power unit, the volume of which is 2360 cm 3. Such a car is capable of delivering 184 hp. With. at 6400 rpm and 232 Nm of torque. Up to 100 km / h, the SUV can accelerate in 9.8 seconds. As for fuel consumption, this figure is higher than that of basic modification. For 100 km in the city, up to 10.7 liters are wasted, and with measured movement along the highway outside the city - 7.6 liters.

Jeep is a brand of SUVs owned by the corporation. Fiat Chrysler Automobile. The headquarters is located in the city of Toledo.

The history of the brand begins in the early 1940s, when it became obvious that the United States would take part in World War II. The military has invited 135 automotive companies to develop a prototype all-wheel drive reconnaissance vehicle. The conditions were tough: the car must be developed within 49 days. American Bantam, Willys-Overland and Ford responded.

American Bantam was in trouble financial position and could not contain engineering and technical personnel. So she turned to a talented freelance designer from Detroit, Carl Probst. He began work on July 17, 1940. In just two days, Probst produced a prototype drawing known as the BRC, or Bantam Reconnaissance Car. The engineer relied on the fact that all elements of the car could be assembled from ready-made parts. The car was assembled by hand and taken to Camp Holabird in Maryland for testing by the military. The prototype met all the requirements, except for the engine torque.

The military approved the submitted prototype, but felt that Bantam was too small to produce as many pieces of equipment as necessary. The drawings for the Bantam were sent to Willys and Ford, who could make modifications to the car as they saw fit. The Ford Pygmy and Willys Quad were very similar cars to the BRC. For all three manufacturers, Spicer supplied the same four-wheel drive components.

One and a half thousand of each of the three models (Bantam BRC-40, Ford GP and Willys MA) were produced. Then all these cars were tested in the field. They needed to be reworked to optimize the weight, and that job was done by Willys. Thus, she received the primary right to manufacture off-road vehicles for the army.

Since the military needed to release a large number of vehicles in a short period of time, Willys was granted a non-exclusive license. Ford motor became the second supplier. Until the end of World War II, 361,400 and 277,900 units were produced, respectively. As part of the Lend-Lease program, deliveries were also made to the USSR, where more than 51,000 copies of Willys were shipped.

With the filing of the American journalist Katharina Hillier in the spring of 1941, the cars were given the nickname Jeep, which in 1945 became a trademark owned by Willys-Overland.

When the war ended, Willys Overland decided to produce Jeep for civilians under the acronym CJ (Civilian Jeep). The first prototypes were released in a small batch. They differed from the military versions by the presence of a folding tailgate, spare wheel, large headlights, gas cap on the rear fender, wipers and an improved transmission.

At first, the company could not use the Jeep emblem, as litigation was ongoing with American Bantam. In 1950, she managed to defend her right to the brand and officially register it.

In 1946, the first car appeared with a station wagon made entirely of steel. This model accommodated seven passengers and reached a maximum speed of 105 km / h. Initially, it was equipped with two-wheel drive, then all four.

Jeep CJ-2A (1945-1949)

In 1949, Willys Jeepster appears - a sporty open car with curtains instead of side windows. Since the model was conceived for recreation, four-wheel drive was not installed in it. It is still highly prized by collectors.

In the same year, the first pickup truck produced under the Jeep brand went on sale. He was universal helper in a wide variety of areas, but was especially liked by farmers.

In 1953, Kaiser-Fraizer buys the Willys company, in 1963 it receives a new name - Kaiser Jeep. Since 1969, the brand has been part of the American Motors Co. concern, which in 1987 became the property of Chrysler.

In 1953, the CJ-3B model appears. It stood out in that the body for the first time had no resemblance to military modifications. In addition, the car received a large grille and a four-cylinder Hurricane F-Head engine. It did not differ from the original Go Devil power unit in terms of volume, but was more comfortable to drive. The model was produced until 1968, for all the time 155,494 units were manufactured. This car was assembled under license in Japan ( Mitsubishi Motors) and India (Mahindra). Mitsubishi Jeep J55 ceased to be manufactured only in 1998.

In 1954, the Jeep CJ-5 debuted, which was already being created by a new owner, Kaiser. Despite the fact that its release was supposed to mark the end of the assembly of the CJ-3B, both of these models were produced in parallel for some time. CJ-5 differed from its predecessor in a more relaxed design and rounded lines. The distance between the axles was increased, decreased total length and vehicle width. The CJ-5 was considered ideal for difficult terrain.

Jeep CJ-5 (1954-1983)

The 60s saw the formation of the SUV market, so this era was especially important for Jeep. Released in 1962, the Wagoneer remains one of the most revolutionary cars. All modern sports are built on its basis. universal machines. In addition, it was the first mass-produced car to be equipped with a six-cylinder engine and an overhead cam. Other innovations include the first automatic transmission on an all-wheel drive vehicle with independent front-wheel suspension. In 1963, the model received a new 250-horsepower V6 "Vigiliante" power unit. In 1965, they began to produce Super Wagoneer.

In the late 60s, a new Dontles engine with eight cylinders was being developed. They completed the J series, which included the Wagoneer and Super Wagoneer.

Already in the early 70s new owner— american motor corporation- offers a huge V6 engine with a single camshaft for the Jeep Wagoneer. V8 powertrains were optionally available.

In 1973, a new Quadro Track transmission was proposed for the Wagoneer, with an automatic permanent drive system and a self-locking differential.

In 1974, the legendary Cherokee with two doors appears. In 1977 to model line its four-door version joined. This car has a stylish sporty appearance. It was he who later became the most popular worldwide representative of the brand.

Jeep Cherokee (1974-1983)

In 1976, the United States celebrated its 200th anniversary, and the Jeep brand celebrated its 35th. This year marks the release of the seventh generation of the CJ. CJ-7 received a plastic roof and steel doors. The wheelbase was 2.37 meters.

In 1978, the limited edition Wagoneer Limited was introduced, which received a leather interior, radio and chrome trim elements.

In 1984, the all-wheel drive cars Jeep Cherokee XJ and Wagoneer Sport Wagon entered the market. They were compact and powerful machines with two or four doors and a one-piece body instead of traditional frame and chassis designs. These cars became very popular and were awarded the "Car of the Year" award.

In 1984, the Wrangler appeared, which became the successor to the CJ family. It featured a new design with a longer wheelbase, making it more comfortable. The model was equipped with in-line AMC gasoline engines: four-cylinder 150 2.5 L and six-cylinder 242 4.0 L.

In the same year, the CJ-8 debuts a small pickup truck based on the CJ chassis. Thanks to the long rear overhang, the loading platform of the car was unusually large.

In 1988, sales of the Comanche pickup, similar to the traditional Gladiator and Honcho, start. It received the legendary Jeep all-wheel drive and modifications of the Comanche Sport Truck with a small cargo platform, as well as the Comanche Chief with a large platform.

In 1992, the Grand Cherokee, the legendary car that conquered the whole world, was presented at the Detroit Auto Show. A new high-tech plant was built to assemble it. The car received an all-new Quadra-Trac all-wheel drive system, a five-speed manual transmission, power windows, anti-lock braking system on all four wheels, central locking, cruise control and a leather steering wheel.

Jeep Grand Cherokee (1992)

1998 saw the release of the premium Grand Cherokee Limited, "the world's fastest SUV," according to the automaker. It was equipped with a 5.9-liter V8 engine with 245 hp, and also received a unique radiator grille.

In 2006, the Jeep Commander appeared, the first seven-seat SUV built on the Grand Cherokee platform. He received a new Quadra-Drive II transmission, which allows you to transfer up to 100% of torque to any wheel. In the same year, Compass debuted - the first car of the brand with a front-wheel drive platform, as well as independent front and rear suspension. Out comes the Grand Cherokee SRT8, which accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 5 seconds.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 (2006-2010)

The official appearance of the brand in Russia took place in 2007, when the Chrysler RUS CJSC company was formed. Jeep immediately won the sympathy of Russians due to its practicality and reliability. Every year, brand sales have grown, and the Grand Cherokee remains the most popular model.

Jeep now has four automakers in the US and is sold on every continent. The brand today, as at the very beginning of its journey, remains popular thanks to the innovative approach of developers, as well as time-tested reliability.

The brand's birthday is considered to be July 23, 1941 - on this day, the US military department signed a contract with Willys-Overland to start production of military off-road vehicles. But contrary to popular belief, the modern Jeep owes its appearance to the little-known company Bantam.

Unrecognized ancestor

The history of the creation of Jeep cars dates back to the very first Jeeps. It all started in May 1940, when the US Armed Forces Technical Committee announced a tender for the creation and production of an experimental series of light army SUVs. The terms of the contract were tough: after the issuance of the terms of reference, the delivery of prototypes was to take place within 49 days, and over the next month it was necessary to provide another 70 machines for in-depth testing. Even in modern conditions, such terms seem incredible! The requirements for the car itself seem no less difficult: an SUV with all-wheel drive and a reduction gear must have a carrying capacity of at least 270 kg, be no higher than 92 cm, wheelbase and width no more than 2.062 m and 1.194 m, and its curb weight should not exceed 590 kg! Not surprisingly, out of 135 companies, only two showed interest: American Bantam and Willys-Overland.

Having received the terms of the tender, the president of Bantam, Francis Fenn, decided to turn to one of the best automotive engineers - Karl Probst. Aware of the disastrous state of the company, Probst wanted to refuse, but Francis Fenn somehow managed to persuade him. While Willys outlined only the terms of execution and the amount of the contract, Bantam had already prepared all the necessary documents, and the prototype SUV was ready on schedule.

The test results revealed more than 20 defects, but, nevertheless, the command liked the SUV. The company took into account the wishes and has already prepared for the production of 70 production cars. But the military command decided to play it safe: doubting the capabilities of a small company, they handed over all the technical documentation of the Bantam BRC model to Willis, who had not yet prepared his prototype, as well as Ford, who was involved from outside. Naturally, Karl Probst was against it: the car created with such difficulty was literally donated to competitors. Long legal proceedings did not help either: after signing the contract, the intellectual property rights to the prototype were transferred to the military. And here it is difficult to blame someone: "in war as in war."

handover

The Bantam drawings made the contestants' task much easier: a month and a half later, Willys, and then Ford, presented their own Quad and Pygmy models. All-terrain vehicles, although they repeated the Bantam design, were still different. The tests of all three models ended in victory for Willys, whose main advantage was a powerful engine (60 hp versus 45 for the Bantam BRC-60). For final decision each of the companies received an order for the production of 1500 all-terrain vehicles, which did not affect the fate of Bantam. Having released a total of just under 2,700 all-terrain vehicles and received a tiny order from the Ministry of Defense for the production of trailers, the company disappeared, barely holding out until the end of the war. The other two Jeeps were more successful: Willys produced 335,551 MB models during the war, while the Ford GPW sold 277,896 units.

As you have already noticed, there was no talk of the Jeep trademark at that time. Where did this name come from? Willys and Ford all-terrain vehicles began to be called Jeeps long before the registration of the Jeep brand. You can read about the history of this glorious name, about which there are many legends, in a separate article “Jeep. Name history.

40-50s. The birth of "civilian jeeps"

At the end of the war, it became clear that such all-terrain vehicles would be in demand not only in the army, but also in civil society. Therefore, Willys Overland already in 1944 began to create civilian versions of the SUV, creating a prototype CJ1A (CJ means "Civilian Jeep" - a civilian jeep). The prototype was based on the military Willys MB and did not differ much from it: a folding tailgate, bumpers and a civilian-style awning. Here, perhaps, are all the differences. The production model CJ-2A with minor changes was released already in 1945. Later in 1946, Station Wagon was produced on the same base, which lasted on the assembly line until 1965. It was the first car in the history of the brand to receive an all-metal station wagon body. Wagon can be considered one of the first SUV class cars, combining practicality, good cross-country ability and a decent level of comfort.

It is curious that in the post-war years, cars were still produced with the Willys logo: the company was still suing American Bantam Car over the use of the Jeep name. Not having much chance of winning, Bantam had to give up, and did not realize the idea of mass production of SUVs. The Jeep trademark was officially registered on June 30, 1950 by Willys-Overland, which was renamed Willys Motors three years later. In the same year, 1953, Willys was bought by Kaiser-Fraizer, and then renamed Kaiser Jeep.

After the arrival of new management in 1954, a civilian version of the military Jeep M38A1 appeared - CJ5, and the M170 model received the CJ6 index, positioned as affordable pickup. Due to the increased size, the SUV became much more stable and comfortable, and soon gained popularity all over the world - other brands often took it as a starting point when creating their own SUVs. With periodic upgrades, he lasted on the assembly line until 1983. However, in 1961, this "jeep" had a dangerous competitor: the International Scout was more spacious, more powerful and more comfortable. As a matter of urgency, Kaiser Jeep set about creating an entirely new class of SUV.

60s. Other priorities

The new Wagoneer sets new standards in its class, combining hitherto incompatible qualities: the comfort and power of a business-class sedan, the off-road capability of an SUV and the practicality of a station wagon. It was one of the first all-wheel drive vehicles equipped with automatic transmission gear and air conditioning: congenial range rover appeared only after 7 years. This decade is also characterized by the emergence of more powerful engines: Wagoneer received new V8s: "Vigiliante" (250 hp, 5.4 l) and Buick Dauntless (230 hp, 5.7 l). But a more solid engine on the CJ5 / CJ6 appeared only in 1966 - the Buick V6 with a displacement of 3.7 liters (160 hp). In the same year, in order to compete with the Ford Bronco and International Harvester, the Jeepster Commando was released on the basis of the CJ series, which included a full range of bodies (pickup, convertible and station wagon). In 1970, the model became simply called "Commando" and was produced until 1973.

Also produced during these years was the little-known Jeep Gladiator pickup, which, unlike the Commando, was built on the larger Wagoneer platform. Military versions were designated M715 and M725.

70s. Change of leadership

In 1970, Jeep Corporation was acquired by AMC (American Motor Corporation Kaiser). Jeep Wagoneer received a fully automatic transmission with a self-locking center differential. V8 AMC engines (5.9 liters and 6.6 liters) began to be installed on the SUV.

in 1976, Jeep released the CJ7, the seventh generation of the "civilian jeep", which received an increased wheelbase, removable hardtop and steel doors. CJ7 began to be equipped new system all-wheel drive Quadra-Trac, which was aggregated with an automatic transmission.

80s. The birth of new legends. Again bankruptcy...

In connection with the energy crisis that began in 1979, the entire American auto industry, with its characteristic megalomania, began to rapidly fade away. Demand for Jeep cars also fell: Gladiator pickups and Wagoneer station wagons began to sell worse due to high fuel consumption. The concern urgently needed more compact cars. Help came from Renault: during a short collaboration with AMC (1982-1986), the French concern developed one of the most popular SUVs of the 20th century, the Jeep Cherokee XJ. Rolling off the assembly line in 1984, this model had nothing to do with the 3-door Wagoneer Cherokee. Jeep received a frame-in-body load-bearing body (frame spars are welded to body panels), which made it possible to lower the center of gravity and reduce weight: the newcomer weighed less than one and a half tons. The bridges were taken from the classic CJ jeep, but the suspension was made more comfortable. In this body, the model existed until 2001. The “Big” Wagoneer SJ was updated in the same year and, having changed its name to Grand Wagoneer, was produced until 1991.

In 1986, instead of the popular and unpretentious CJ7, the charismatic Wrangler with the YJ index was born. No less reliable and passable car became more comfortable, although the design remained the same: a frame body, dependent spring suspension of all wheels, rigid axles.

In 1987, American Motor Corporation filed for bankruptcy, and Jeep was taken over by Chrysler Corporation. Changes did not have to wait long: first of all, the line of power units was revised in favor of more powerful engines. Instead of the Renault J8S turbodiesel (2.4 l, 85 hp), the Italian VM motori (2.5 l, 113 hp) was installed, and petrol engines were now only injection: AMC-150 (2.5 l , 105 hp) began to develop 123 hp, and the GM-173 V6 engine (2.8 l, 115 hp) was replaced by the AMC 242 (4 l, 177 hp). This inline 6-cylinder engine is for a long time mounted on jeeps. Transfer cases have also been updated - cars were mainly equipped with NP 231 transfer cases Part Time and NP 242 Full Time.

90s. Another rise and the emergence of a new flagship

Threat local market imperceptibly crept up from Japan: quickly reacting to the increased demand for "urban" SUVs, the Japanese offered cars that were superior in many respects (including comfort). The Yankees did not remain in debt: in 1992, the legendary Grand Cherokee ZJ appeared in the Jeep lineup. And although the ZJ was 350 kg heavier than the Cherokee and 32 cm longer, by American standards it was relatively small. However, the Grand Cherokee was able to gain popularity not only among Americans: in the period from 1992 to 1998, the car was sold around the world in the amount of 1.5 million copies. It was appreciated for its timeless and elegant design, comfortable interior and excellent dynamic qualities for its class and excellent cross-country ability. Having survived the modernization in 1996, the SUV was produced until 1998.

Second Jeep generation The Wrangler TJ went into production in 1996. In addition to changes in design, the most important changes affected the chassis: the link-spring suspension had a positive effect on comfort and handling, without damaging the almost best-in-class flotation.

In 1998, the Jeep branch became part of the transnational concern DaimlerChrysler Corp. In the same year, the following Generation Grand Cherokee with index WJ. To the delight of brand fans, WJ used time-tested solutions: dependent front and rear suspension, reliable engines and an honest all-wheel drive transmission with locks and a demultiplier.

2000s Jeep moves to the asphalt

Following the rapid spread of all kinds of crossovers, which appeared in almost every automaker, the Jeep brand needed a more modern Cherokee. This is how the new Cherokee / Liberty KJ appeared: with a "toy" appearance, it became more like a Wrangler. The design of the SUV, as in the case of the Grand Cherokee WK, was radically revised: the body became much stiffer, the front suspension became independent, and the rear axle was suspended on two lower trailing arms and an upper articulated trapezoid. And we must pay tribute to the developers: and although the Cherokee has finally acquired passenger habits and has become more adapted to urban use, it has not ceased to be a good SUV. He retained the all-wheel drive system with forced locking of the center differential and excellent geometric cross-country ability. You can only complain about the reduced suspension travel.

Wanting to give light handling to the next generation of Grands, the new WK, which debuted in 2005, was equipped with independent front suspension, and the rear axle was now fixed on 4 trailing arms and Panhard rod. The reduced transmission range became available only in the optional Quadra-Drive II all-wheel drive system, where electronics were responsible for blocking 3 differentials. But with the advent of the KJ and WK models, Jeep cars were no longer in demand. "Jeeps" were no longer so "off-road", and they lost to their competitors in terms of equipment and did not really shine in the "asphalt" disciplines.

Bantam BRC-40 Prototyp (1940). It is more correct to consider the Bantam all-terrain vehicle, the design of which was incorporated in Willys and Ford, as the first Jeep car.

Modernized Bantam BRC-40 (1941)

Ford GPW (1942–45). Ford had to abandon the Pygmy model and produced after the GP. The successor was the Ford GPW - almost an exact copy of Willys

Willys Quad (1940) won the final test due to a more powerful motor

The evolution of Willys: the first prototype of Willys Quad (1940), serial MV (1942-1945), post-war M-38 (1950) and M-38 A1 (1955)

The Jeep CJ-2A (1945-49) was a success with 214,202 built.

Jeep CJ5 (1954-83) one of the most massive "civilian jeeps" of that time

With the luxury Wagoneer (1963-91), Jeep took comfort to the next level.

The 1978 model of the year is one of the next Jeep Wagoneer upgrades.

Jeep Gladiator from 1962 to 1988 was produced both with all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive

Designed by Renault, in the early years of the Jeep Cherokee XJ (1984-2001) was the most popular model of Chrysler Corporation in Europe

The Jeep Cherokee underwent a major upgrade only in 1997: due to insufficient rigidity, the body was strengthened and its corrosion resistance increased.

Simultaneously with the Jeep Cherokee, the new Wagoneer (1984-90) was released on the same base.

The mechanics of the new Wrangler YJ (1987-95) were borrowed from the Cherokee

Jeep Grand Cherokee ZJ (1993-98) was true to the brand's traditions, remaining a full-fledged SUV: technically it was close to the simpler Cherokee

Jeep Wrangler TJ (1996-2006) design is friendlier and suspension is more comfortable

Jeep Grand Cherokee WJ (1999-2004) retained dependent suspension with continuous bridges

Adapted to public roads, the new Jeep Cherokee/Liberty KJ (2001-2007) was not as popular as its predecessor

The new Grand WK (2005-10) has become more “passenger” due to the new running gear

The Jeep Wrangler JK (2007-2013) is one of the last Jeeps to retain true off-road values. With the advent of the 5-door version of the Unlimited, the Rengler finally got a spacious interior

Grand Cherokee WK2 (2010-2013), built on the Mercedes-Benz M-Class platform, was able to compete with the class leaders

The Rubicon Trail is one of the toughest off-road trails in the US. In honor of this track, a frequent visitor to these places Jeep Wrangler received a Rubicon modification

Jeep Compass (2006-2013). After a Grand Cherokee WK2-style makeover in 2010, the Compass has been given a facelift.

Jeep Cherokee KK (2007-2013) has not changed much structurally compared to the KJ generation

The design of the new Jeep Cherokee KL (2013) caused a lot of controversy among fans of the brand

Jeep Patriot/Liberty (2007-2013) built on the same platform as the Jeep Compass and Dodge Caliber

Official website: www.jeep.com
Headquarters: USA

"Jeep" (Jeep), a division of the American concern Chrysler, specializing in the production of off-road vehicles of the brand "Jeep". The headquarters is located in Detroit (Michigan).

The American engineer and industrialist Arthur Herrington is considered to be the creator of the jeep type car.

After the First World War, he worked in France, where he dealt with the problem of creating off-road vehicles. Conducted experiments on four- and six-wheeled trucks in collaboration with the Marmon Motor Company of Indianapolis, Indiana. The car he created was named "jeep" (a phonetic translation of the English abbreviation GP - jeep, which means general purpose - general purpose).

1940 - the American company Willys gave real glory to the jeep. It is the wartime model - the army jeep - that allows Willys to be ranked among the great automobile companies. Among other 135 American firms, the company participated in a competition to create a reconnaissance all-terrain vehicle for american army. The choice fell on Willys and Ford all-terrain vehicle options. Each of the firms received an order for 1,500 vehicles, deliveries of which began in early 1941.

1941 - the US government decided to keep only the model in service Willys car MA, but it was upgraded taking into account the test results and the need for unification between different firms.

1942 - Mass production of cars under the Willys MB and Ford GPW brand began. The cars of the two firms were almost indistinguishable from each other. They had a standard engine from Willys 77 and a three-speed gearbox. The all-terrain vehicle accommodated four people, weighed just over a ton and developed a speed of up to 105 km / h. In total, in those years, Willys produced more than 360 thousand jeeps, most of which entered service with the Red Army. Ford made a little less - about 270 thousand cars.

After the end of the war, Willis-Overland decided to adapt its offspring to perform some civilian functions. A batch of cars was prepared. They simply called them "CJ" (an abbreviation for Civilian Jeep - "civilian jeep"). These prototypes served as the basis for the creation of a serial model, which went on sale as early as August 1945.

True, outwardly, all "citizenship" consisted in the presence of a folding tailgate, wipers and a gas tank cap on the rear wing.

The hood, tailgate and glass frame were supposed to have the "Jeep" logo. However, in the early years of production, when the company was still suing American Bantam Car for the right to use the Jeep name, cars had to be made with the Jeep logo. But already in 1950, the company secured this name for itself, and on June 13, 1950, Jeep was registered as a trademark.

In 1946, Willys became the first in the auto industry to offer a kind of minibus for civilian use. The car had rear-wheel drive and could accommodate up to seven people. Speed indicators, however, did not shine - 100 km / h, but this is not the main thing. The main thing is patency! But the all-wheel drive version introduced in 1949, in fact, was the “grandfather” of the modern Jeep Grand Cherokee. And this is a dynasty.

The theme was further developed in the Station Wagon, a multi-seat jeep produced from 1951 to 1963. Its basis and already external features served as a prototype of the first "Vagonir", and he, in turn, laid the foundation for our hero.

In 1953, the company received a new name - "Willis Motors". Fortunately, the Jeep division remained with the new company. Only the production of passenger cars went to Willis.

The 60s were perhaps the most important in the history of the Jeep: it was at this time that the off-road vehicle (SUV) market was formed. Back in the mid-50s, the company began active research and development of new projects for machines with a 4 × 4 wheel arrangement. The program gave its first fruits in the fall of 1962, when a completely new "Jeep-Wagoner" (station wagon) appeared, which was fundamentally different from those produced earlier. The model belonged to the J series and was equipped with both full and partial drive. In 1954, the fifth version of the "civilian jeep" - "CJ5" was born. This all-wheel drive vehicle turned out to be so successful that it stayed on the assembly line, changing, however, engines, suspension and transmission, until 1983. By the way, back in 1949, the name "Universal" ("universal") was assigned to a series of "civilian jeeps" - "CJ".

2/4-door "Wagoner" with a 2.79-meter wheelbase was the first utility vehicle with automatic transmission, design and comfort passenger car which complemented off-road performance. The combination of all-wheel drive with "automatic" was used in the industry for the first time. In addition to this, the Wagonier's engine, the Tornado, was the only overhead camshaft power unit in America.

Six months after launch new J-series Willys-Overland was finished. But not in the literal sense. Just in March 1963, Willis Motors was renamed the Kaiser Jeep Corporation. Fortunately, the changes did not slow down the pace of expansion of the model range. In turn, "Wagonier" in the same year received additional "horses" in the form of a 250-horsepower V6 "Vigilante".

In December 1965, Jeep dealers exhibited in their showrooms a car that had attracted the attention of the public at nine American showrooms for 11 months, the Super Wagoner. It represented a new, unique approach to the station wagon market... cars designed for a customer who increasingly understands the benefits of all-wheel drive. While elegant in appearance, the car offered traditional J-family all-terrain characteristics. Two years later, the Hydromatic automatic transmission was installed on this series of Jeeps.

In the late 60s, the company's engineers created another engine of the Dontles series, now with 8 cylinders. They decided to put it on the J series, to which Wagonir and Super Wagonir belonged.

The entry into the new "ten-year period" was marked for "Jeep" by another change of ownership. On February 5, 1970, American Motors Corporation (AMC) acquired Kaiser Jeep Corporation for $70 million. And again, the change of owners not only improved the already good position in the market. For the Jeep Wagonier, AMC offered the largest ever all-wheel drive station wagons engine - V6 with one camshaft. Optional were, also for the first time in world practice, V8 of their own production.

In 1973, Wagonir underwent some technical improvements. His new Quad Truck transmission was the first fully automatic permanent system for a four wheel drive vehicle (with limited slip differential).

The following year saw the birth of a new name, Cherokee. The newcomer joined the J-series as a 2-door model. For the 200th anniversary of America in 1976, "Jeep" released the seventh generation of "civilian jeep" - "CJ7". By 1977, the company also prepared a 4-door version, accompanied by a standard V6. And although the Jeep Cherokee at birth looked like a more luxurious Wagoner, in the future it was he who turned out to be the most popular car in the history of Jeep Motors.

In 1978, a limited series of "Wagonir" was launched - a modification of "Limited" (with leather interior, radio and mass of chromium).

In connection with the energy crisis that began in 1979, the production of large Gladiator pickups and Wagoner station wagons fell sharply. But civilian jeeps of the CJ series went like hot cakes.

In 1984, the company launched new versions of the 2/4-door Cherokee, as well as the 4-door Wagoner, which was 53.3 cm shorter, 15 cm narrower, 10 cm lower and 453 kg lighter than its predecessor. , first introduced in 1963. The Cherokee was the only car in the compact class to have four doors and two all-wheel drive systems—CommandTrac and SelectTrac. It took six years for competitors to “get” a Jeep in this segment. The success of the Jeep, and the Cherokee in particular, was not fleeting. The car was named the best SUV 1984.

Buyers of the growing off-road segment now, in addition to the characteristic features of a 4 × 4 car - cross-country ability, reliability, durability - also needed the comfort and functionality that were previously associated with passenger cars. Jeep's response to market requests followed. Already in the spring of 1986, the Wrangler was born. The mechanical filling of the Wrangler was more similar to the Cherokee than the CJ7. Along with features such as comfort and good looks, the Wrangler offered the traditional virtues of the Jeep family—endurance and unsurpassed off-road ability.

On August 5, 1987, the American Motors Corporation, which had steadfastly withstood the blows of fate for decades, finally surrendered to the mercy of the government: it declared bankruptcy. All properties were sold. Jeep was acquired by the Chrysler Corporation.

"Jeep" entered the 90s fully armed. On March 22, 1990, the millionth SUV of the XJ series was produced - a bright red Cherokee Limited. In its seven years of production, the Cherokee has not only become the epitome of exemplary off-road vehicle, but also the most popular model of the Chrysler Corporation in Europe.

To commemorate Jeep's 50th anniversary, Chrysler released new version A Cherokee with a 190-horsepower 4-liter PowerTechSix engine in a car that would become the new ideal of an SUV. The real name of this car, the company decided, would be the Grand Cherokee, and the buyers of the car would be wealthy people whose associations about a high level of safety, comfort and prestige were reduced to respectable vehicles imported from abroad. In other words, Jeep decided to bring a touch of luxury to the strict and, in general, simple world of SUVs in order to attract not only farmers of the Wild West, but also wealthy people to their products.

The official presentation of the car was on January 7, 1992 at the Detroit Auto Show. 1996 model year The Grand Cherokee has been significantly improved in terms of engine, chassis, electronic systems and interior. Inside the cabin, the most significant changes have been made to the dashboard. All switches and buttons are located in close proximity to the driver, interior ergonomics have improved.

Having successfully dealt with the Grand Cherokee, the Jeep design team took up the Wrangler, a descendant of the glorious Jeeps, from which the history of the company began. The engineers needed to create the second generation of the Jeep Wrangler.

By that time, the Wrangler had been going without significant changes for almost nine years and occupied 50% of the market. compact SUVs. Despite such an impressive position of the car and the fact that 1994 was a record year for the number of Wranglers sold, the company had something to think about. Rivals understood the full potential of the market and attacked it with new and varied models.

The goal for the successor to the Wrangler was the same as for the new Grand Cherokee - to set new standards in the off-road world. However, the circumstances and conditions for the creation of the "Jeep" were different. The Wrangler was a direct descendant of the original World War II Jeep and was regarded around the world as something of an "American icon". The car on the market was unique and was the quintessence of the company's traditions (jeepness - "jeepness", as the Americans called it). The successor had to not only keep his "jeep", not only to remain an icon of the American "off-road construction", but also to raise the tradition to a new level. But one thing had to remain unchanged - the name "Wrangler". "Wrangler" is a synonym for "cowboy".

Jeep is one of the most famous car brands in the world. In some languages, such as, for example, in Russian, the name of the brand has become a household name when designating off-road vehicles.

Jeep currently sells its vehicles in over a hundred countries. In Europe, for example, Jeep currently sells three of its models, the Wrangler, Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee. The latter two account for 18% of the European off-road vehicle market.

- to the begining -

Jeep is an American automobile brand and subsidiary Fiat company Chrysler. Chrysler Corporation acquired the Jeep brand in 1987. Jeep's current product range consists exclusively of SUVs, and the name "Jeep" itself has become a household name for all quality SUVs. The entire range of Jeep.

background

The first Willys MB Jeeps were produced in 1941, making this the oldest off-road vehicle ever produced. The first civilian models were produced in 1945. The original Jeep became the main light all-wheel drive vehicle United States and Allied armies during and after World War II.

The car served as a model for the development of similar military and civilian vehicles in other countries. When it became clear that the United States would eventually take part in the war raging in Europe, the Department of Defense approached a number of private companies with a request to produce a four-wheel drive army vehicle. Two of them responded to the request, these are Bantam Car Company and Willys-Overland.

More than suitable engine, because the company won the tender for the supply. In order to increase the number of cars produced, in addition to Willys, production was also launched at Ford plants. Production of the civilian version began in 1945 with the CJ-2A model, followed by a transition to the CJ-3B model in 1953.

Brand

Outlived by owners such as Willys and Chrysler, the Jeep brand licenses cars around the world, including Mahindra in India, EBRO in Spain and a few in South America. And Mitsubishi produced over 30 different Jeep models in Japan from 1953 to 1998.

1946 - Willys comes up with the idea of creating a semblance of a minibus for civilian use, with a capacity of 7 people and a speed of 100 km per hour. The all-wheel drive version of this model appeared a little later.

1954 - CJ5 is released, the fifth and most successful option civil all-wheel drive jeep with some design changes, which was produced until 1983.

Birth of a legend

The name “universal”, which has been attached to the entire series of the CJ civilian jeep since 1949, fully justified itself: Wagoneer 2 and 4-door, with automatic transmission, combined the qualities passenger car And character traits SUV.

In 1974, a new model appeared, which later became no less famous than the Jeep brand itself - the Cherokee (Cherokee).

1976 - On the occasion of the bicentenary of America, Jeep produced the CJ7 - the 7th generation of the civilian Jeep series. The following year, the company has already presented a four-door version with standard motor V6. Despite the outward resemblance of the Jeep Cherokee to the Wagoner, it has become the most popular car in the history of the brand.

1984 - Jeep fills the car market with the latest versions of the Cherokee - two- and four-door, and a four-door Wagoner. Introduced two years later, the Wrangler is structurally larger than the Cherokee than the CJ7. August 1987 - in connection with the bankruptcy of American Motor Corporation and the sale of property, the brand passes to a new owner - Chrysler Corporation.

March 1990 - The millionth car of the XJ series - Cherokee Limited is produced. The work of the designers on the Grand Cherokee was more than successful, so the solutions found were applied to the Wrangler, created on the basis of Willys, the company's first brainchild. Production of the II generation Jeep Wrangler was launched in 1996.