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 |
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1965
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The DJ-6 is introduced as a long-wheelbase version of the DJ-5.
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1966
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The Willys Jeepster Commando, based on the CJ-6 chassis, is introduced. This vehicle is offered in roadster, station wagon, pickup, or a power-top convertible.
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1967
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The DJ-6a is developed exclusively for postal use. AM General continues to produce this model throughout the 1980s.
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1970
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American Motors Corporation takes over Kaiser-Jeep.
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1971
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American General is spun off from American Motors Corporation. This company later produces the HMMWV.
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1975
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Willys-Overland resurrected as a wholesale/retail parts business.
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1976
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Offering an optional automatic transmission, the CJ-7 starts its 10-year run. This vehicle is slightly longer than the CJ-5. A total of 379,299 units are produced.
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1977
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The Jeep II concept is unveiled. This vehicle strongly resembles the original Willys MB and was designed to address fuel economy concerns.
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1981
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The CJ-8 "Scrambler" is introduced. Only 27,792 of these vehicles are produced. Though rare, these vehicles are very sought after for restoration.
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1982
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The CJ-10 and CJ-10a are introduced. These two models are quite rare. The CJ-10a is powered by a Nissan diesel engine, low-range gearing and a Dana 70 rear axle. The CJ-10a is capable of towing up to 20 tons, and is primarily used as an airplane tow vehicle.
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1984
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The new Cherokee (XJ) is introduced to compete in the growing compact SUV market.
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1986
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The first Wrangler (YJ) is introduced as a replacement for the long-running CJ lineup. The YJ features square headlights and a wider.Body than the CJ.
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1986
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The Comanche (MJ) pickup debuts. This vehicle is based on the same architecture as the Cherokee.
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1987
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American Motors is purchased by Chrysler Corporation.
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1988
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A long wheelbase version of the YJ is produced in Valencia, Venezuela for export markets only.
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1991
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The J-Series Grand Wagoneer is discontinued.
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1991
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The Renegade trim level is added to the YJ lineup. This trim level features a unique fender skirt package and the new 4.0L I-6 engine.
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1993
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Chrysler introduces the Grand Cherokee (ZJ) to replace the discontinued Wagoneer.
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1997
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The redesigned Wrangler (TJ) is introduced. Round headlights make a return, and the front suspension is changed from leaf sprung to coil sprung.
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1997
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The Jeep Dakar concept is unveiled. This four-door Wrangler model wows auto show audience with its light bar, roof rack, and classic Jeep styling.
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1997
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The Jeep Icon concept is unveiled. This concept features independent front and rear suspension.
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1997
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Jeep Cherokee is given a mild facelift. The.Body lines of the vehicle are smoothed out and the interior is redesigned.
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1998
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Daimler-Benz merges with Chrysler Corporation to form DaimlerChrysler, fifth largest auto maker in the world.
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1998
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The Jeepster concept vehicle debuts.
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1999
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The Grand Cherokee undergoes a complete redesign. This vehicle (WJ) wins the coveted 4x4 Of The Year Award.
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