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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 DJ-6 is introduced as a long-wheelbase version of the DJ-5.
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.
The DJ-6a is developed exclusively for postal use. AM General continues to produce this model throughout the 1980s.
American Motors Corporation takes over Kaiser-Jeep.
American General is spun off from American Motors Corporation. This company later produces the HMMWV.
Willys-Overland resurrected as a wholesale/retail parts business.
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.
The Jeep II concept is unveiled. This vehicle strongly resembles the original Willys MB and was designed to address fuel economy concerns.
The CJ-8 "Scrambler" is introduced. Only 27,792 of these vehicles are produced. Though rare, these vehicles are very sought after for restoration.
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.
The new Cherokee (XJ) is introduced to compete in the growing compact SUV market.
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.
The Comanche (MJ) pickup debuts. This vehicle is based on the same architecture as the Cherokee.
American Motors is purchased by Chrysler Corporation.
A long wheelbase version of the YJ is produced in Valencia, Venezuela for export markets only.
The J-Series Grand Wagoneer is discontinued.
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.
Chrysler introduces the Grand Cherokee (ZJ) to replace the discontinued Wagoneer.
The redesigned Wrangler (TJ) is introduced. Round headlights make a return, and the front suspension is changed from leaf sprung to coil sprung.
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.
The Jeep Icon concept is unveiled. This concept features independent front and rear suspension.
Jeep Cherokee is given a mild facelift. The.Body lines of the vehicle are smoothed out and the interior is redesigned.
Daimler-Benz merges with Chrysler Corporation to form DaimlerChrysler, fifth largest auto maker in the world.
The Jeepster concept vehicle debuts.
The Grand Cherokee undergoes a complete redesign. This vehicle (WJ) wins the coveted 4x4 Of The Year Award.