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History Of The Jeep Brand

The Jeep brand has a long and storied lineage. The history started decades before World War II and the brand has seen a multitude of owners. In the section below, you will find some notable milestones of the brand's existence.

Year Event
The last Cherokee (KL) rolls off the line. Extensive improvements to the drivetrain and interior of the Jeep Compass made the Jeep Cherokee a less competitive offering in the Jeep model lineup and ushered in the end of life for the KL.
The Wrangler and Gladiator receive mid-cycle refreshes that include a new interior instrument panel, a new grill design, and an option for a factory-installed winch.
Jeep confirms the end of production of the Jeep Renegade for US and Canadian markets due to declining sales.
Jeep launches the Grand Wagoneer L which adds the 12" of length to the already sizable Wagoneer. In addition, it -- and its smaller siblings -- now feature a twin turbo I6 engine wearing the storied Hurricane moniker. This engine in high output guise produces more horsepower, torque, and efficiency than Jeep's 6.4L HEMI.
Jeep previews the off-road oriented Recon and the luxurious Wagoneer S -- their first forays into fully-electric production vehicles. Both vehicles are expected to be available by 2025.
Jeep unveils the Jeep Grand Cherokee L. This variant is the first of the next generation Grand Cherokee and features seating for 6 or 7 passengers. Launch powertrains include the HEMI 5.7L and 3.6L engines with a plugin hybrid 4xe version to be released in late 2021.
FCA merges with Peugeot S.A. to to create Stellantis N.V., the world's fourth-largest auto manufacturer in the world.
After a 30-year absence, the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer return to the lineup. The new versions of these iconic vehicles push Jeep further into the luxury market with the Grand Wagoneer featuring solid walnut trim, massaging seats, and a 23 speaker McIntosh audio system. Towing capacity is rated at approximately 10,000 pounds -- the highest ever in Jeep's history. 4WD is standard on the Grand Wagoneer.
Jeep unveils the fifth generation of the two-row Grand Cherokee. The interior continues to become more luxurious and technology-laden. A 4xe plugin hybrid (PHEV) is an option, offering a combined 440-mile range and the more power than the 3.6L and 5.7L gasoline options. The rugged Trailhawk trim level offers a disconnecting sway bar to improve off-road articulation.
Jeep releases the Gladiator Mojave. This "Desert Rated" trim level is specially tuned for high-speed maneuverability on terrain such as sand dunes. It adds a reinforced frame, axle housings, and steering knuckles to the already capable Gladiator. Jeep also announces the availability of the EcoDiesel engine on some Gladiator trim levels.
Jeep releases the Jeep Wrangler 4xe in Rubicon and Sahara trim. This plugin-hybrid boasts not only 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of instant torque, but also a 30-mile electric range and a total driving range of 400 miles
Jeep unveils the Wrangler Rubicon 392 featuring 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque making it the most powerful Wrangler ever.
Jeep releases the Gladiator pickup truck. Sharing many design cues with the Wrangler (JL), the Gladiator can carry 1600lbs of payload and tow up to 7650lbs. The truck features seating for five, a 5' long bed, a removable top, and an available forward-facing camera for improved off road visibility.
Jeep releases a facelifted Cherokee (KL) that wears less-polarizing front and rear facias. The interior features slightly improved cargo space and an upgraded navigation system.
Jeep unveils the all new Compass. The compact SUV features fresh styling, a refined nine-speed transmission, and an available off-road ready Trailhawk edition. With the introduction of this new model, Jeep discontinues production of the Patriot.
Jeep regains the most powerful SUV bragging rights with the introduction of the 707hp 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. Eschewing some off-road prowess for speed, the Trackhawk and its mighty 645lb/ft of torque can achieve 0-60mph times of under 3.5 seconds.
Jeep debuts the new Wrangler (JL) with a more aerodynamic design, increased fuel economy, an easier folding windshield, improved approach, departure, and breakover angles, improved ground clearance, LED lighting options, new safety features, and a highly upgraded interior. A turbo 4 cylinder mild-hybrid engine is offered in addition to the standard 3.6L V6.
Jeep unveils the 75th Anniversary Editions. With the availability of a model-specific unique green exterior color, unique interior accents and commemorative badges, these limited edition vehicles celebrate the freedom the Jeep brand has stood for since 1941.
The Jeep Renegade debuts. This subcompact SUV was designed with export markets in mind by packaging many features into a small footprint. An off-road focused Trailhawk trim option features a 1" factory suspension lift and a 20:1 crawl ratio.
A refreshed 2014 Grand Cherokee debuts. This refresh focuses on continuous improvement of the award-winning 2011 design by incorporating LED lighting, a high resolution navigation screen, customizable LCD instrumentation, and luxurious upholstery and trim. Fuel economy is increased to nearly 30mpg via a new eight-speed transmission and an optional 3.0L Common Rail Diesel (CRD) engine.
The Compass and Patriot are offered with an optional six-speed automatic transmission.
A replacement for the Liberty, bearing the legendary Cherokee nameplate, debuts. The vehicle receives mixed press reviews due to a radical shift in styling. The Cherokee Trailhawk trim features more aggressive approach and departure angles, rugged body cladding, and a locking rear differential.
The last Liberty (KK) rolls off the assembly line in Toledo, Ohio.
The Grand Cherokee Trailhawk and the Wrangler Moab enter production. These vehicles are geared toward off-road readiness with rock rails and more aggressive tread patterns.
Jeep unveils a limited production Wrangler Mojave editions. The vehicle features unique lizard-themed leather and driftwood interior. The lizard theme is continued outside with a decal packages.