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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 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT-8 thunders onto stage at the New York Auto Show. With an aggressive outward appearance and a driver-centric interior, the vehicle is powered by the HEMI 6.4L engine and is capable of 0-60mph sprints in 4.8 seconds.
Under the leadership of Sergio Marchionne, Chrysler repays it's loans from the US and Canadian government in full. Fiat becomes the majority owner of Chrysler LLC.
A six speed transmission is paired to the 2012 Grand Cherokee's optional HEMI engine. This provides the award-winning flagship with a smoother driving experience and slightly improved fuel economy.
The 2012 Wrangler receives an all new powertrain including a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine and a five speed automatic transmission. The upgrade provides a considerable boost in performance as well as better fuel economy.
Four Wheeler Magazine names the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon the best 4x4 vehicle of the decade.
Jeep unveils the limited production Wrangler Mountain and Wrangler Islander editions. These vehicles feature unique interiors and decal packages.
The production version of the all new 2011 Grand Cherokee (WK2) rolls off the line. The vehicle features a myriad of safety features and an available Quadra-Lift air suspension. The WK2 immediately receives rave reviews from industry publications for it's luxurious interior, on-road performance, and best-in-class off-road capability.
A refreshed 2011 Jeep Wrangler debuts with a new color-matched top option on Sahara models. The interiors of all trim levels are upgraded. Leather seating is offered as a factory option for the first time.
A refreshed 2011 Jeep Patriot debuts with new lower.Body cladding, revised front fascia, and a more upscale interior. Four wheel drive models also feature an increased ride height.
The Jeep Liberty Jet edition debuts, features include 20-inch polished aluminum wheels and blacked-out headlights.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland Summit edition debuts, enhancing the WK2's luxury options even further with unique Black Olive burl real wood trim, a leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel, and Berber floor mats. Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-path detection systems are standard on the vehicle. The interior later earns the prestigous Ward's "10 Best Interior" award.
The refreshed 2011 Compass is unveiled with an all-new interior, a fascia inspired by the Grand Cherokee, and LED taillights.
The new Jeep Grand Cherokee debuts at the NY Auto Show. Powered by either a 5.7L HEMI or an all new 3.6L Pentastar V6, the model moves upmarket with options like adjustable air suspension, adaptive cruise control, and more. This 2011 model replaces both the existing Grand Cherokee and the Commander.
Chrysler LLC declares bankruptcy in attempt to reduce outstanding debts.
Chrysler LLC exits bankruptcy as a new company clear of it's bad assets and debts. The new company, known as Chrysler Group LLC is headed by Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne, former Toyota boss James Press, and C. Robert Kidder. The United States treasury, the Canadian Government, the United Auto Workers' Retiree Medical Benefits Trust, and Fiat Group become the new owners of the company.
The Jeep Renegade concept debuts. The big news with this concept is not it's design but it's powertrain -- a 1.5L Bluetec diesel paired with lithium-ion powered electric motors -- resulting in a combined cycle fuel economy of 110mpg.
The all-new Liberty (KK) is introduced. Powered by the same 3.7L engine as the previous generation Liberty, the new model moves upscale in quality and options and gains a boxy styling similar to the Commander and the old Cherokee. A full-length canvas SkySlider roof is the most exciting new option.
The redesigned Wrangler (JK) is introduced. With styling that closely mirrors the Gladiator concept, the JK features slightly larger dimensions than the TJ, increased ground clearance, and is powered by a 3.8L V6 that generates 205hp and 245lb/ft. Available options include an electronically-controlled sway bar and a modular three-piece hard top.
The production version of the Jeep Compass (MK49) debuts. Much to critics dismay, it loses the rally/Baja styling of the concept for a more pedestrian look. Power is derived from a 2.4L and delivered via a CVT. The Compass is not Trail-Rated.
The production version of the Jeep Patriot (MK74) debuts. It is based on the same Dodge Caliber architecture as the Compass but features a CVT2 transmission, low-range, and 9" of ground clearance. The Patriot is Trail-Rated.
The redesigned Wrangler Unlimited is introduced. Matching most of the Wrangler's specifications, it features a wheelbase that is 20.6" longer than the JK and four doors.
The jaw-dropping Jeep Hurricane concept debuts with twin HEMI engines and a 0-degree turning radius.
The Jeep Gladiator concept truck debuts. This vehicle bears the same name as a 1960's Jeep pickup model and features a side-mounted spare tire, diesel engine, and expandable truck bed.
The Jeep Commander (XK) debuts. This 2006 model-year vehicle is the first Jeep vehicle since the Willys Wagon to offer seven-passenger seating. The Commander is powered by a 330hp HEMI engine.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 debuts. This 2006 model-year vehicle is the fastest production SUV, featuring a 415hp 6.1L HEMI and full-time four wheel drive. This vehicle can complete 0-60mph sprints in under five seconds.