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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 Jeep Commander concept vehicle debuts.
The Jeep Commander 2 concept vehicle debuts. Looking nearly identical to the Commander, this concept features a nearly pollution free fuel-cell powertrain.
The Jeep Varsity concept vehicle debuts.
After over 17 years of production, the beloved Jeep Cherokee is discontinued.
The Jeep Willys concept vehicle debuts.
The Jeep Liberty (KJ) is introduced as a replacement for the Jeep Cherokee. The KJ still carries the Cherokee name in export markets.
The Jeep Compass concept is unveiled.
The Rubicon trim level is added to the Wrangler lineup. This vehicle features lockers, 4.11 axle gear ratio, and puncture resistant tires.
The Jeep Rescue prototype vehicle debuts. Geared for search and rescue, this vehicle features high ground clearance, a Cummins diesel engine, and extensive electronics.
Following in the steps of the CJ-6 and CJ-8, the Wrangler Unlimited is released. This long-wheelbase vehicle is also offered in the rugged Rubicon trim level.
The Liberty CRD (common rail diesel) is announced. This vehicle marks one of the first modern diesel domestic vehicles.
The Grand Cherokee undergoes a complete redesign. The 2005 model-year vehicle (WK) features independent front suspension and a powerful 330hp HEMI engine. This vehicle follows tradition by winning the 4x4 Of The Year Award.
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.
The Jeep Patriot concept debuts with a classic slab-side design.
The Jeep Compass Rallye concept debuts. The vehicle is a low-slung, rally-inspired, all wheel drive auto based on the Dodge Caliber architecture.
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 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 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 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.