Around the Industry – 4WD186 – Part 2

Around the Industry – 4WD186 – Part 2

UPCOMING WAGONEER TO BE SEGRIGATED FROM GRAND CHEROKEE

While we are all salivating from the mouths on the upcoming Jeep Wrangler, it must be noted that Jeep are working on another new addition to the line-up. The new Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will take over as the brands top luxury SUVs. Though they will be based on the Grand Cherokee, the new Wagoneer’s will be separate models, as reported by the Automotive News.

As per Jeeps long-term outlook, the model will be similar in size to the three-row Dodge Durango and sit atop the Jeep line-up in both size and luxury. The Durango itself is based on a stretched version of the Grand Cherokee platform. However, a Jeep spokesman has confirmed to Automotive News that the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will not simply be high-grade trims of the Grand Cherokee, but will feature its own unique body design. Expect the two top Jeeps to be unveiled between 2019 and 2020.

LAND ROVER TO GO BACK TO BMW ENGINES

Those who have followed the Land Rover story over the past couple of decades might remember the days (1994-2000) when both Land Rover and Jaguar were owned by BMW. Back then, Land Rover were making use of their parent companies excellent engine building expertise with a couple straight-six diesels working their way into the European market. Well, its seems as though Land Rover has come full circle as Automobile is reporting that Jaguar Land Rover is set to phase out their iconic 5.0L supercharged V-8’s in favour of more efficient turbocharged V-8’s built by the Bavarian brand.

While the supercharged beauties make all the right noises, the fact is, JLR are in need of upgraded powertrains. Going back to the drawing board is an expensive hindrance, especially if BMW are offering a partnership. Automobile are reporting that the said V-8’s are still in the design phase and will have a displacement of 4.0L. That’s about all we know, but expect these new V-8’s to be a lighter and more fuel efficient package than the outgoing 4.4L that currently produces anywhere between 440 to 600 hp in.

LAND ROVER DISCO CAUGHT IN THE WILD

The spy photographers have been busy over on the British Isles and it appears they have snapped the first shots of the next generation of the Land Rover Discovery. The camouflaged test mule may hide some of the finer details, but it is clear that the production Discovery is nearly a carbon copy of the Discovery Vision Concept Land Rover launched back in 2014 pictured here.

Unfortunately, much like the Vision Concept, the new Disco is sporting a rather subdued roof bulge that starts above the C-pillar and semi-floating roof design that became the trademark of the original. The days of a tall, upright, and boxy Land Rover seem to be numbered, but increased aerodynamics, the likelihood of an aluminum unibody and new turbocharged and diesel V-6’s should make the new Disco a much more efficient performer. There is even talk of a plug-in hybrid powertrain finding its way into the line-up. Expect the future Discovery to make its debut at the end of this year or sometime early in 2017.

JEEP BUILD WWII INSPIRED WRANGLER

Since 1941, the Jeep name has symbolized a unique family of go-anywhere, do-anything vehicles – first developed for military use, and after 1945, continually adapted for a wide variety of civilian applications. The Jeep brand is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2016, and to mark the occasion, a commemorative one-of-a-kind Wrangler 75th Salute concept vehicle is being created as a tribute to the brand’s legendary history and military heritage.

The “function over form” of the original Jeep military service vehicles is evident in this unique concept vehicle. The Wrangler 75th Salute concept – a modern interpretation of the Willys MB – is based on a two-door Wrangler Sport and highlights rugged functionality with heritage design cues, including the absence of B-pillars and doors. The exterior features an olive-drab colour scheme, 16-in steel wheels wrapped in 32-in military non-directional tires, hood latches, a rear-mounted spare tire, steel front and rear bumpers with tow hooks and low back canvas seats, echo the original military Jeep vehicles. Other features include custom wood hood blocks and side mirrors, as well as bronze commemorative fender badges.