Jeep sketches future 4x4s

08 August 2005

New Jeep sketches released today show how the manufacturer is planning to expand its range with a pair of small 4x4s as well as next year's big seven-seat Commander.

Compass Rallye will be Jeep's new baby and is expected to cost around £15,000

New Jeep sketches released today show how the manufacturer is planning to expand its range with a pair of small 4x4s as well as next year's big seven-seat Commander.

The Compass Rallye and the Patriot are smaller than the current Cherokee, and will compete in the crowded compact off-roader market. Concept versions of the 4x4s will make their world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

On sale in the next few years, the Compass Rallye aims to provide a more refined road-going experience than the Cherokee and consequently compete on a more equal footing with the likes of the Nissan X-Trail and Honda CR-V. Expect prices to start at around £15,000 for the new baby of the Jeep family.

The Patriot is a tougher prospect, which Jeep said would provide best-in-class off-roading ability. Like the existing Cherokee, it is likely to feature low-range gear ratios and locking differentials for added grip and control in slippery conditions. Prices should start at about £18,000 when it goes on sale in the next few years.

Jeep will launch a big new seven-seater in the UK next year. Called the Commander, the biggest model in the Jeep range will be a direct rival for the Land Rover Discovery and is likely to cost from £32,000.