Timetable for new Jeep models

[haven]

Car and Driver has spoken with Jeep executives about the introduction of new models. Here's what is planned:

January 2013...Grand Cherokee diesel, to compete with diesel Mercedes, Audi, VW, Porsche, BMW SUVs.

May 2013...replacement for the Jeep Liberty, aimed at buyers of Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4. Diesel possible.

Mid 2013..."Surprise" for Jeep Wrangler, probably a body kit like the JK8 pickup kit

January 2014...replacement for the Patriot and Compass, based on the Dodge Dart chassis

Mid 2014...subcompact SUV, about the size of a MINI Countryman. Probably on the Fiat 500L chassis.

2014? 2015?...Stretched Grand Cherokee, adding third row of seats. Similar to Dodge Durango.

To this list, I will add

2015...Wrangler redesign, with fuel efficiency a priority. maybe diesel, maybe a pickup version

http://blog.caranddriver.com/when-a...ne-for-new-models-diesels-and-srt/#more-99288

 

[Dan Grec]

A potential diesel in the liberty is interesting, as I doubt they'll use the 3.0 (too big, more torque than needed).
They would have to certify one of the smaller VMs, like the 2.2

After the Grand Cherokee, the Liberty is the only other Jeep that’s in the running for a diesel engine. The EPA and state of California have set such high standards for diesel certification and emissions that the costs—for both Jeep and potential customers—don’t make sense.

How does that make any sense when the 3.0 is already certified for the GC? Surely they just have to drop the same engine into the Wrangler, and it won't cost them anything...?

-Dan