Mopar launches Jeep Performance Parts with Wrangler Sand Trooper

There's no doubt that the Jeep Wrangler is a shining beacon of aftermarket success here at the 2012 SEMA Show. If there's any one vehicle that can stake a claim to challenging the Scion FR-S and Ford Mustang in the sheer-number-of-vehicles contest, it's Jeep's iconic off-roader. So it comes as little surprise that Mopar is interested in picking up a bit more of that market with its own factory-approved line of performance parts. Read more...

Sorry Clint and Eminem, your ads were not the most significant for Chrysler

Though it has been the company's star-laden Super Bowl commercials starring Eminem and Clint Eastwood that have garnered the most buzz for Chrysler and its ad agency Wieden + Kennedy, the principals agree that it was a far earlier spot that has made the biggest impact thus far. Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne and John Jay, Global Executive Creative Director for Wieden + Kennedy, agreed recently that it was the commercial for the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee that has had the most significant impact for Chrysler in the post-bailout era. Read more...

NHTSA to probe 2011-2012 Jeep Patriot over stalling fears

After receiving a dozen complaints about stalling Jeep Patriots, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has decided to launch a formal investigation. The probe will look at about 112,000 Patriots from the 2011 and 2012 model years. NHTSA says some owners report their vehicles' engines are completely shutting off at speeds above 65 mph. In at least eight cases, the drivers could not restart the vehicle, and in at least one incident, the stall involved a crash that injured two people. Read more....

Jeep to build all model lines in China?

We're quite used to seeing Jeep knockoffs come out of China (e.g. SsangYong Korando generations one through three), but if a new report is to be believed, we may start seeing the fair dinkum being built in Asia once again, too. Read More...

Wrangler Ute no go

Chrysler Group focuses on a new one-tonne pick-up instead of Wrangler-based ute. A plan to develop a utility version of the Jeep Wrangler appears to have been scrapped in favour of a dedicated one-tonne rival for the likes of the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger. The Wrangler ute seemed high on the Fiat Chrysler group’s future model agenda when Jeep’s Global Brand President and CEO, Mike Manley, met with Australian motoring press in August. However, at last week’s local Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 media launch, Fiat Chrysler Group Australia Managing Director Clyde Campbell confirmed the new Wrangler derivative was off the agenda. “I think the clear decision is that if you are going to have a pick-up it has got to be a metric-tonne pick-up,” Mr Campbell explained. “It’s got to be a beast that ticks a few boxes.” Jeep does currently offer a ‘JK-8’ utility conversion kit for the current four-door Wrangler, but it is an oddly shaped load space limited to about 800kg, Mr Campbell explained. Read more....

Two guys keep rescuing a Jeep Wrangler in new Discovery show

For the right kind of person, this sounds like an awesome adventure with a Jeep Wrangler. For everyone else, it probably sounds like hell. Discovery has teamed up with former British special forces soldier Gary Humphrey and self-proclaimed gearhead Gary Bill Wu, and sent them into a remote peak in the Chilean volcanoes. Also heading into the wilderness? A used Jeep Wrangler, airlifted to another location in their general vicinity. Their job? Track down the TJ and use it to get home. What could go wrong? The show is called "One Car Too Far," and is a five-part series, chronicling the pair's escape from the mountainous region of Chile. The duo encounters the full breadth of Chilean terrain, including alpine tundra, deserts, and humid subtropical regions. Oh, and they have just three days to get out and back to civilization! The show starts August 19th, at 9PM on Discovery

2015 mini Jeep will be ‘trail-rated’

A new mini Jeep will not damage the brand’s tough image. That’s the promise from Jeep president Mike Manley, who told CarAdvice that at least one version of its upcoming micro machine will be ‘trail-rated’, meaning it will have strong off-road capability. The new model will take on models like the Skoda Yeti and upcoming Ford EcoSport in a new sub-small SUV segment when it arrives in 2015. It will be produced in both right- and left-hand drive and is almost certain to be offered in Australia. Various reports had suggested the baby Jeep would be built off the same base as the Fiat Panda, but Manley said that was not the case. “It’s not off the Panda. It is a Fiat-derived platform, but we could have an hour discussing what is a platform, but let me say it is on Fiat technology,” he said. The platform was not originally developed for off-road work, but Jeep is spending the money to make sure it can make it a reasonable distance off road.
READ MORE FOLLOW THIS LINK Note: 2001 Jeep Willys2 concept pictured.

Decision on a Jeep pickup coming soon, truck could come on Wrangler or Fiat platform

"Pretty soon." That's the answer Jeep president Mike Manley gave to Australian site Car Advice when asked about a decision on a Jeep pickup truck. And with the next-generartion Wrangler planned for arrival in 2015 or 2016, this is the window for getting with planners. There's certainly plenty of lust for a Jeep pickup – just look at the strong sales of Mopar's JK8 kit. Concerning a factory-fresh production version, part of the considerations are whether to build a two-door, or a four-door that could provide more space for people and cargo but wouldn't have the Wrangler's same off-road might. Making a Wrangler variant that can't live up to the stalwart Jeep's off-road standards is a concern for Manley. The approach and departure angles of a four-door wouldn't be a problem, but the length of a pickup would mean "your break-over angle gets destroyed," said Manley, and in that case he wonders, "Then is it really a Wrangler?" The two-door, however, would have "no issue at all." Another idea would be to build a Jeep pickup on a Fiat platform, perhaps the one underpinning the next Liberty. That could be a model distinct from the Wrangler line and, while still possessing the off-road promise of a Jeep. Manley only spoke of that hypotetically, though, saying he could "see the opportunity in the future" for such a vehicle. It shouldn't be long before we know one way or another.

USA: Jeep Wrangler Freedom Edition arrives in time for 4th of July

The iconic Jeep Wrangler's earliest ancestors were military vehicles that proved their offroad capabilities by shuttling our armed forces through some of the world's most difficult terrain. Now, 70 years later, that bare-bones, utilitarian vehicle is all grown up and (somewhat) civilized, but no less American. To show off its patriotism, Jeep has just announced a new Freedom package on its 2012 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited models. Spotting the new trim packages on the street should be super easy. First, they're only available in three colors: Deep Cherry Red, Bright White and, exclusive to Freedom models, True Blue. READ MORE HERE

JEEP ACTION August Edition out now

Check it out CLICK HERE: Sample Contents - August 2012 Postie Ready for Work V6 Billy Carts Black Dog at Tuff Truck The 46th Easter Jeep Safari 2012 Jeep Wrangler Apache 2012 Jeep Wrangler Traildozer Classic Not Plastic 2012 Camping at Daisy Plains Dr Jeep (Tony Whitehead) Jeep Hosptial Product Review - Sprintex Superchargers Historic Jeep Images, Australian Jeep Clubs Listing, Classifieds

Watch a Jeep Grand Cherokee fail Sweden's Moose Test

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has proven to be a rock-solid off-road-capable SUV with a dose of civility on public roads. But while the top Jeep has a terrific reputation and a long list of accolades, at least one model apparently didn't have the chops for the Teknikens Moose (or Elk) test over in Sweden. The moose test is a lighting-fast emergency lane change maneuver that takes place at a relatively staid 40 miles per hour. While most vehicles clear the obstacle with little fuss, the below video shows that a Grand Cherokee Overland got up on two wheels and very nearly rolled. Teknikens Värld tester Linus Pröjtz points out in the Overland model comes standard in Sweden with 20-inch wheels, rollover protection and electronic stability control. READ FULL STORY HERE

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 gets Alpine and Vapor special editions for 2013

If there's any brand that loves special editions more than Porsche, it's Jeep. The automaker has officially released two new flavors of the 2013 Grand Cherokee SRT8, and both include sexy monochrome exteriors in either black or white. The Alpine edition comes dipped in Bright White paint, while the Vapor edition shown above is soaked in Brilliant Black. Both come wearing 20-inch five-spoke gloss black wheels as well as a few other matching appointments, including badges, grilles and rear light bar. Jeep says the special edition packages will cost $2,495 each on top of the machine's $60,920 base price. The 2013 model still bows with a monstrous 6.4-liter V8 with 470 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. The engine is capable of pushing the 5,150-pound SUV to 60 mph in just 4.8 seconds on its way to a top speed of 160 mph. If that's not enough to tickle your chin, Jeep says the 2013 Grand Cherokee SRT8 can click off .90g on the skid pad. READ FULL STORY HERE

Ausjeep short movie I put together of wheelin trips I have had with Jeeps and ausjeepoffroad.com members. Most of the footage is from around the watagans and Mt sugarloaf area around Newcastle. Everything from Willys to JKs in this vid with plenty of hard wheelin.

Ausjeep forum meet up at the ARB shop just before we left to Cityview.

This is the Sydney Jeep Club Jeep Jamboree 2012 Promo, Join us Sept 27 - 30 Rydal NSW for a Jeepin good time - get your tickets now at http://www.jeepjamboree2012.com.au

Watch the world's most epic wheel-to-wheel paintball battle

Those of you who've played paintball know the game rarely turns out how you imagined it. The weapons fire a .68 caliber blob using compressed air, and as such, they have all the accuracy of a pool noodle fired from a howitzer. That doesn't make it any less fun to track your friends down through the woods and paint them dayglow pink, though. One filmmaker has decided to show off exactly what the game looks like in the imaginations of 12-year-old boys everywhere by throwing in unsanctioned weaponry like full-on Nitro Circus Baja trucks, airfoils, ATVs, motocross bikes, Jeep Wrangler troop carriers and plenty of dirt jumps. There's even a cameo by an older doorless Grand Cherokee. It's paintball armegeddon. Still, we feel it's our duty to warn anyone who's still reading not try these sorts of shenanigans at home – battle between foot soldier and moving vehicle rarely works out in the former's favor. Check out the melee for yourself.

NHTSA now probing over 5M Jeep models over fuel tanks

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has upgraded an investigation into certain Jeep models to an engineering analysis, according to Bloomberg Businessweek. NHTSA began investigating certain Jeep Grand Cherokee, Cherokee and Liberty models with fuel tanks positioned behind the rear axle in late 2010. Regulators say fires tied to rear-impact crashes may be responsible for 15 deaths and 46 injuries. The results of the engineering analysis will determine whether or not Chrysler is required to issue a recall for the defect. If that happens, the automaker could be looking at recalling 5.1 million vehicles, making the campaign one of the largest in U.S. automotive history. Chrysler says it's uncertain how many of those models are still on the road today, though it is certain NHTSA will find the SUVs neither defective nor unsafe. Even so, that hasn't stopped some consumer advocacy groups from lambasting the vehicles. The Center for Auto Safety proclaims that the vehicles are a "modern day Pinto for soccer moms." Chrysler has analyzed crash data in Grand Cherokee models and says it has found no greater incident of post-accident fire than in vehicles produced by other manufacturers. The investigation covers 1993-2004 Grand Cherokee, 1993-2001 Cherokee and 2002-2007 Liberty models.

Jeep adds 137,000 Liberty models to previous recall

Chrysler has included an additional 137,000 vehicles in a previous Jeep Liberty recall, upping the total number of units covered to 356,900. The campaign initially included 2004 and 2005 Liberty models, but has been expanded to include units from model years 2006 and 2007 as well. The campaign is aimed at vehicles sold or registered in States with a high probability of rust, where the rear lower control arms may corrode at an accelerated rate and fracture. Such a failure could cause a loss of control, which could lead to an accident. According to CNN Money, Jeep maintains there have been no reports of accidents or injuries, though the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into the failures back in April after receiving nine reports of control arm fractures. Chrysler will replace the control arms free of charge, and those owners who have already had the components replaced will be reimbursed.

Jeep unveils Wrangler Unlimited Altitude

In March, Jeep showed off its blacked-out Altitude edition Compass, Grand Cherokee and Patriot. Now it's Wrangler's turn get the monochromatic package. The Wrangler Unlimited Altitude package includes everything the traditional Unlimited Sahara gets, including a body color hardtop and various interior gadgetry. But the Altitude exterior gets either all-black paint or all-black trim on Deep Cherry Red, Black, Bright White or Bright Silver Metallic paint. Unique 18-inch wheels with painted black spokes round out the exterior highlights. Inside, the seats get black leather with contrasting red stitching as well as black trim on the dashboard and black berber floor mats. Only 4,500 Wrangler Unlimited Altitude editions will be sold (which doesn't seem that unlimited to us) beginning in May with an MSRP of $33,740. That's more than the Patriot and Compass Altitudes and just shy of the $35,595 price tag on the Grand Cherokee Altitude.

Jeep recalls nearly 68,000 Wrangler models over... skid plate fires?

Chrysler is recalling 67,872 Jeep Wrangler models over a potential issue with the transmission skid plate. The recall deals solely with Wranglers from the 2010 model year, equipped with automatic transmissions. It's been found that debris can collect on the skid plate that protects the transmission, leading to the risk of a fire if the debris makes contact with the nearby catalytic converter. Chrysler will begin notifying owners this month, at which time they can take their Wranglers to be repaired free of charge at the dealer. Scroll down for the complete release from the National Highway Traffic Safety Adminstration.

Jeep to push for more sales in China

Jeep is one of the most famous brands in the world, and that recognition helps fuel sales and make the marque one of the shiniest gems in the Chrysler crown of brands. The world's most voracious car market, China, knows and loves Jeep vehicles well enough to fuel a sales boom that's got the company looking to add dealers and re-fire local production. Chinese buyers snap up Jeep branded merchandise wherever they can find it, but the actual Jeep dealer network in China is only 120 strong. Still, sales were up 63 percent last year, and Jeep CEO Mike Manley is sure that could rise even further with better availability. "Our brand awareness and consideration is running way ahead of where our actual volumes are," Manley said. Jeep was actually one of the first western automakers to make a foray into China when American Motors Corporation set up Beijing Jeep in the 1980s. Since that time, Jeep has gone through ownership and cashflow tumult, stopping Chinese production in 2006. Now, Chrysler is looking for a partner to work with so that more Jeeps can be available to buyers that are starving for the vehicles they perceive so fondly. If production within China isn't re-started, Jeep may become just a memory. Right now, the Jeep models that are available in China are imported, and carry hefty price tags because of duties. Popularity of SUVs is high in China, and other manufacturers may not have the same image as Jeep, but with local production and lower prices, not to mention more dealers, availability may trump the Jeep mys

Jeep drops details on six Easter Jeep Safari Concepts

Jeep has released details on six new concepts the company crafted for this year's Easter Jeep Safari, including the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk Concept.

And while that vehicle boasts a slew of off-road goodies, including tow hooks, aggressive Goodyear Wrangler rubber and a rear light bar, we're more interested in the wicked Mighty FC Concept pictured above.

Engineers built the Mighty FC as a tribute to the Jeep Forward Control that was offered between 1956 and 1965. Using a 2012 Wrangler Rubicon as a platform, the company stretched the wheelbase, stuck the cab ahead of the front axle and threw in a custom drop-side cargo box. Underneath, the Mighty FC uses a set of Mopar eight-lug portal axles, which offer a surprising amount of ground clearance without having to resort to a lift. If you like what you see, the axles are available for a combined price of $23,500. The truck rolls on 40-inch tires, and a King coil-over suspension handles the bumps and bruises of the trail.

Of course, the Jeep J-12 Concept (above, left) is equally delicious in its own right. An extended version of the JK-8 pickup, the concept began life as a 2012 Wrangler Unlimited, though the frame has been stretched a total of 18 inches. With a full six-foot bed, custom hood and unique fenders, the concept is straight awesome. Build it, Jeep.

The automaker also showed off an accessorized version of the standard Wrangler as well as a Wrangler Traildozer concept (above, right). The latter of the two was built by partnering with the off-road gurus at American Expedition Vehicles. With a 470-horsepower 6.4-liter V8 and a Getrag six-speed manual gearbox, the machine has the go-bits to tackle any trail. Dana 44 axles with electronic locking differentials at the front and rear are also part of the package.

Likewise, the Wrangler Apache concept (above, left) gets its power from the same fire-breathing Hemi, though that vehicle uses a Mopar conversion kit for the swap. With a beefy lift and 5.13 axles, the Apache should have no problem taking on the rocks of Moab.

Unfortunately, Chrysler has yet to release a full batch of official images for each vehicle, so went to their headquarters in Auburn Hills, MI, and shot them ourselves

USA: Jeep Wrangler "Death Wobble" report prompts members of Congress to investigate

A local television news report on a so-called Jeep "death wobble" has led two members of the House of Representatives to write a letter to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requesting more information about the situation, which they describe as a "serious safety issue."

The three-page letter does not demand an investigation or recall, but asks the agency numerous questions regarding the problem and what is known about it. The original report aired on KGO-TV in San Francisco in February.

The two members of Congress describe the problem as "a powerful shaking of the steering wheel and front wheels after a driver hits road bumps at speed," affecting 2005-2010 model year Jeep Wranglers. The news report says NHTSA has received over 600 complaints about wobbling and vibrating in Jeep vehicles since 1995, "mostly Wranglers." Indeed, YouTube is rife with videos of shaking Wranglers, some of which we've gathered after the jump.

Chrysler issued the following statement regarding the accusations:
Chrysler Group vehicles meet or exceed every applicable government safety standard and have excellent safety records. All manufacturer vehicles equipped with a solid axle are susceptible to vibration and, if experienced, it can be corrected by performing minor maintenance items, such as properly balancing or changing the tires, or a front end alignment, installing a new steering dampener, or by tightening or replacing other loose or worn parts. In fact, most reported incidents – in all manufacturer vehicles equipped with or without a solid axle – are often linked to poorly installed or maintained after-market equipment, such as lift kits, oversized tires, etc. This is not a safety issue, and there are no injuries involving Chrysler Group vehicles related to this allegation. Indeed, the name you've given to this condition has no basis in fact.

While we're not so sure blaming the customer for improper maintenance is the right response, we will say that Wranglers and their antecedents are unique beasts, what with their solid axles and high centers of gravity. This is why they're so wonderful off road, and why those that choose to use them as daily drivers shouldn't expect them to behave exactly like every other vehicle they encounter on their commute. And of course if there is, indeed, a "serious safety issue" with the Wrangler, we would expect Chrysler to address it.

NHTSA opens investigation into alleged Wrangler fires

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of Defect Investigations (ODI) has opened preliminary investigation PE12009 covering 2010 Jeep Wranglers equipped with automatic transmissions.

The investigation will focus on the transmission, engine and engine cooling system.

In the announcement, the ODI says it has received eight reports alleging fires originating in the engine compartment. Seven of the eight complainants allege the fire or symptoms of the impending fire began while driving.

PE12009 has been opened to assess the scope, frequency, and safety-related consequences of the alleged defect. The complaints can be viewed at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/complaints under the following ODI identification numbers: 10358879, 10441570, 10371836, 10421483, 10423198, 10427833, 10429042, 10451570.

The NHTSA action is not a recall at this time. Chrysler Group sold more than 90,000 2010 Wranglers.

Jeep Brands Breaks Two-Million Facebook Fans

The Jeep® brand is celebrating a major milestone today as its Facebook page has reached over 2 million fans. The brand is the first domestic automotive brand to hit the 2 million mark on Facebook, outpacing the next closest domestic brand by approximately 700,000 fans.

"On behalf of the entire Jeep brand team, I would like to extend a personal thank you to our consumers – and literally millions of fans – for their continued loyalty and support," said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "We are proud of our 70-year history and all that the Jeep brand has accomplished along the way. Jeep vehicle owners are unlike any others; from those who embrace the 'Jeep wave' to those who look forward to helping a fellow off-roader along the trail, there is a sense of community and passion among Jeep owners that makes our brand unique."

The Jeep brand Facebook can be viewed at www.Facebook.com\Jeep

Chrysler preparing two Chinese-influenced concepts for Beijing

Chrysler has announced that in honor of the brand's return to the Chinese market, it's bringing two design concept to the Beijing Motor Show later this month. The first is a sharp-looking 300C with an all-black exterior, a set of very large wheels and a two-toned interior with light-colored leather seating surfaces.

The seatbacks are embossed with some sort of symbol, what looks to be gusts of wind. Chrysler says this special 300C was "created specifically with Chinese elements in mind," but we'll have to wait a couple weeks to find out exactly what that means.

The 300C, however, is a wallflower compared to this Jeep Wrangler design concept that unabashedly wears its Chinese pride like a flag draped around its shoulders. Said to be inspired by the Year of the Dragon, the black Wrangler features dragon decals on its sheetmetal, some small and some very large, as well as a very ornate image of a dragon on the underside of the hood.

The all-black exterior is set of with gold accents on the black wheels, as well as gold trim around the headlights and trademark seven-slat grille. Lastly, the lighting has been upgraded with a set of high-tech LEDs set within the Wrangler's traditional round headlamps. It may be strange to see all that Chinese iconography on something so American as a Jeep Wrangler, but it's no more stranger than an American flag-wearing edition of the Italian Fiat 500.

Tuff Truck 2012 Results

Top 10
Place Team Name
1 Tough Dog
2 Team OPW
3 Rock Rash
4 Army Barbie
5 BARZOOK
6 Rockracing 4×4
7 Team Wheelboyz
8 Bridgestone
9 Oh Deere
10 TEAM ANABOLIC

The Tough Dog Tuff Truck Challenge (TTC) is a three day, hard as they come, 4WD competition event. The TTC is gruelling and enduring, and provides a real test for competing teams as they push themselves and their vehicles to the absolute limit. Boulders, Rock, Mud, Giant Tyres, Deep Deep Holes and Ruts make up the terrain that competitors must conquer… in hope of taking out the annual perpetual Tuff Truck trophy.

Motor Enthusiasts Conference 2012 - Duncan Gay

The Hon. Duncan John GAY, MLC Member of the Legislative Council Minister for Roads and Ports, speaks at the inaugural Motor Enthusiasts Conference Eastern Creek raceway.

He addresses the topical issues relating to modifying motor vehicles. An Absolutely brilliant day for Motor Enthusiasts Today, thankyou to The Hon. Duncan John GAY, MLC Member of the Legislative Council Minister for Roads and Ports from all Motor Enthusiasts present today. Your speech today has ensured we all can get back to building and getting on with our passion.

I really appreciated his honesty, knowledge on the topic of modified vehicles and humour, he is a top bloke doing a top job. Hunty

Euro NCAP Says Jeep Compass "Disappoints"

The latest results from Euro NCAP, which is equivalent to the IIHS in North America, brings good news for some, and bad news for others.

The two vehicles tested by the European body are the new 2012 Honda Civic 5-door hatchback and the redesigned Jeep Compass crossover.

Starting with the good news, Honda's compact model was awarded the maximum five star rating, achieving high scores in all areas of assessment and putting it on a par with the top models in its category.

Euro NCAP said that the passenger compartment remained stable in the frontal impact while the car scored maximum points in the side barrier test. It also offered adequate protection in the more severe side pole impact, and scored top points for the protection it offered to pedestrians.

The facelifted Jeep Compass, on the other hand, achieved only two stars against the 2012 criteria, with the European body stating that it "underachieved" in most areas of Euro NCAP’s assessment.

According to the results, the compact SUV showed poor protection levels for passengers, particularly in the side pole test, while in pedestrian protection, it scored a "disappointing" 23 percent.

"Compact SUVs are the most popular sport-utility segment in Europe, but the Jeep Compass did not demonstrate itself as strong contender on safety in comparison to other tested competitors in the same category," Euro NCAP said in a statement.

Commenting on the latest results, Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary General, said:

"The results published today show clearly that a 5 star these days means a lot more than a 5 star some years ago. Many car makers have moved on and so have we. Cars based on older technology, brushed up and marketed as new are not providing the same levels as safety as the newest models developed against the new targets. Consumers interested in a fair comparison will not be fooled by these results."

Next Jeep Liberty to get shrunken Pentastar V6

The replacement for the aging Jeep Liberty is expected to debut at next January's Detroit Auto Show, and when it does, a brand-new Pentastar powertrain will reportedly be spinning underhood.

According to Automotive News, Chrysler will offer a downsized 3.2-liter V6 in the Liberty mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission sourced from ZF. The current Pentastar V6 displaces 3.6 liters and has been well-received by both critics and buyers in everything from the refreshed Dodge Journey to new Chrysler 300.

Chrysler Group CEO Sergio Marchionne reiterated to AN that efficient transmissions play a huge role in the development of engines. "If we had known the eight-speed was coming, we could have made the [3.6-liter] Pentastar a 3.2-liter," he said.

Currently, the Liberty is available with a 3.7-liter SOHC V6 that produces 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque backed by a four-speed automatic transmission. This new 3.2-liter/nine-speed combo will surely improve performance, not to mention overall efficiency, though specific power and fuel economy details are still up in the air at this time.

Jeep recalls 210K Liberty SUVs over corrosion issues

Chrysler has announced that it's recalling 209,724 Jeep Liberty models for lower control arms that may fracture due to rust.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration says the recall covers certain vehicles manufactured between July 3, 2003 and July 14 2005, which were originally sold or are currently registered in states with a high probability of rust.

In the right conditions, the lower control arms could rust to the point of fracture, leading to a loss of control and a potential accident. Reuters reports Chrysler is unaware of any accidents caused by the defect.

The automaker intends to notify owners and begin the recall by the end of April this year. Those vehicles covered by the campaign will have their control arms replaced free of charge. See below for the full recall notice.

Jeeping in Oz - Camp Coffs 2012 Easter

CAMP COFFS 2012 INFORMATION:
This Jeep event is held by Jeep Action Magazine and supported by the Coffs Coast Jeepers club. Camp Coffs is located at Coffs Harbour on the beautiful Mid North Coast of NSW. Camp Coffs is located within the Coffs Harbour showground on the Pacific Highway.

Camping is available on-site, with plenty of room for tents through to caravans. Some powered sites are available, first in has preference and extra charges will apply for power. Hot showers and flushing toilets on-site. Morning and evening catering will be available for purchase.

Walking distance to service stations and food outlets. Close to shopping complexes. There is a large hall used for recreational gathering, vendors and trip allocation meetings. Camp Coffs officially opens on Thursday morning the 5th of April. This will allow you to beat the traffic, arrive Thursday, settle in and have a look around the local area.

If you arrive earlier, the camping can be accessed from 1PM Wednesday 4th April and definitely NO earlier. There will be a charge of $10 per Jeep for Wednesday. Please remember that setting up of the camp area may still be taking place so please be co-operative.

Guided trips are run Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Group activity or trips will be arranged for Monday if required.

GRADED TRIPS ARE AS FOLLOWS
Placid/Discovery - Suitable for all Jeeps, bitumen and forestry roads that may lead to some light four-wheel driving.
Moderate - Suitable for all Jeeps, lower tyre pressures recommended. Four-wheel drive/ low range will be used.
Moderate Plus - Suitable for Jeeps with All-Terrain or Mud tyres and suspension lift. Traction aids will be an advantage.
Hard - Suitable for Jeeps with All-Terrain or Mud tyres and suspension lift. Traction aids are a must.

If uncertain, trip grades can be discussed with trip leaders when you arrive at camp. All trips are day activities so take necessary food, water, sun block, hat and clothing with you. Your Jeep needs to be fuelled prior and ready to go when you arrive at the trip departure points. You will need a UHF radio in car or hand held for the trips.

Snatch Strap and appropriate rated shackles to suit your vehicle required for all off-road trips.

Save China's Jeep beer for the end of the trail

Modern advertising has conditioned us to associate a wide array of strange images with beer in a can. The Rocky Mountains, silver bullets, Clydesdale horses and blue ribbons all do their best to peddle cheap brew, but Chinese drinkers now have a new mascot for their favorite cold one.

Hubei Jeep Brewery Corporation has turned out a new light beer featuring everyone's favorite off road machine. The logo even features a Jeep Wrangler silhouette, complete with the brand's iconic/trademarked seven-slat grille. What does Jeep Beer taste like? Fresh mountain streams? Muddy hill sides? Licking a Chrysler interior? No one is saying for certain.

Hubei Jeep Brewery Corporation has completely adopted the Jeep brand as an emblem of rugged manliness, and the company even went so far as to giveaway a Jeep Compass to the highest-selling distributor. The winner managed to move 60,000 liters of suds to take home the prize.

Don't get us wrong. Beer and vehicles go together about as well as fenders and telephone poles, but we're just curious enough about the notion of Jeep Beer to want a bottle or three. Besides, you can't argue with a tag line like, "JUST FOR MAN."

www.ausjeepoffroad.com

2012 Mopar Jeep Compass True North points... north?

Mopar didn't leave Jeep out of the customized fun here at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. Based on the Compass, the 2012 Mopar True North boasts a two-inch suspension lift from Rocky Road Suspensions and 16-inch matte black wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich All Terrain tires. Other exterior tidbits include a matte black grille surround and lower body cladding.

There aren't any changes to the standard Compass drivetrain that we know of, but the interior is fitted with a custom center console that features pitch and roll inclinometer gauges. Finishing it off is an audio system sourced from Kicker that Jeep says "transform [it] into a rolling high-end sound studio," which would appear to be completely unrelated to its intended purpose.

Like all Trail Rated® Jeep models, the Jeep Compass is a capable off-road machine. With the Mopar Jeep Compass "True North" model, Mopar further improves its off-road form and function.

The exterior features a matte black finish on the roof, wheel flares, lower fascia, door cladding and black grille with body color inserts. Other exterior touches include black-headlamp and fog-lamp surrounds, rear fog lights, custom front and rear brush bars and custom rock rails. Matte black 16-inch alloy wheels with BF Goodrich All Terrain tires and a 2-inch lift kit from Rocky Road Suspensions add some additional off-road go.

The interior received lots of attention from Mopar and renowned audio component manufacturer Kicker. The entire audio system, including front and rear speakers, amplifier, sub-woofer and lift gate speakers are provided by Kicker, and transform Jeep Compass into a rolling high-end sound studio. A custom center stack gauge pod that houses pitch and roll inclinometer gauges, add to the vehicle's off-road credentials. A Mopar bright pedal kit, door-sill guards, rear-cargo tray, shift knob and neoprene seats complement each other while enhancing the quality feel of the cabin.

Stealthy Jeep Grand Cherokee concept headed for production

Jeep is using the 2012 Houston Auto Show and 2012 Washington D.C. Auto Show to unveil a new production-intent concept. Based on the Grand Cherokee Laredo X model, what we have here is a mostly blacked-out version of Jeep's flagship product, with a few highlights in a finish Jeep calls Platinum Chrome.

Included in the blackout are the front grille (with Platinum Chrome mesh inserts), headlamp bezels and liftgate light bar. Platinum Chrome is also used on the lower front fascia. Unique to this model are 20-inch gloss black aluminum wheels in a split five-spoke design. This new Grand Cherokee concept will be shown in both Brilliant Black and Deep Cherry Red.

Curious why it's only known as the "Grand Cherokee Production-Intent Concept"? That's because there will be an online contest to help determine its official moniker. Will it be the Stealth, Noir, Dirty Dirty or the Back-in-Black edition? How about our personal favorite, the Grand Cherokee Emo Edition? That's for voters to decide. The winner "will have a chance to win a new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee," says Jeep in the official press release after the break.

www.ausjeepoffroad.com

Alonso and Massa get a pair of Ferrari-red Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8s

There's no end to the perks of being a Formula One racing driver, especially if you happen to drive for Scuderia Ferrari. As if piloting one of the fastest F1 cars on the grid weren't enough, Ferrari has gifted each of its gifted drivers his own 458 Italia, Abarth 695 Tributo Ferrari and Maserati GranCabrio, to name just a few. And something tells us that if either Fernando Alonso or Felipe Massa wanted anything else from the expansive Fiat-Chrysler product range – say, a Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, for example – that would hardly pose a problem.

That's exactly what the talented duo got the other day at the Fiorano test track at Ferrari headquarters in Maranello, where the first two examples of the new SRT8 in Europe were delivered to the pair of stars. Certainly, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 has plenty to love, what with its 6.4-liter Hemi V8 and 5-second dash to 62 mph, but Fernando And Felipe got more than that.

These two unique examples were decked out in Rosso Corso , with matte black front grille, a black offset racing stripe, black roof, carbon fiber trim and white accents. Ride height was lowered by 1.5 inches on unique forged and painted 20-inch alloys, and the interior has similarly been decked out in red leather accents and top-stitching and even yellow dials on the instruments.

Nice work if you can get it. All you have to do is convince the most victorious team in motorsport that you've got what it takes to be world champion, and you can have one too.

Domestics picked up market share in California last year

Most days, California must seem like Kazakhstan for the Big Three. Domestic products aren't so popular out West, where Toyota and Honda have long stood atop the sales charts. But not in 2011.

Visit us at http://www.ausjeepoffroad.com

According to a report in Automotive News, both General Motors and Ford managed to bump Honda from its silver medal position in 2011, though Toyota still holds a commanding market share lead. In a storyline we've heard before, the twin natural disasters in Asia curbed Japanese production, causing a 4.5 point loss of market share. Toyota's market share dropped from 22.8 to 19.2 percent, while GM and Ford tied at 12.6 percent – ahead of Honda at 12.1.

Booming sales in the Golden State helped the domestics to their 1.8 point gain. New vehicle registrations in California were up 9.9 percent, according to the report. The biggest sales gains last year were made by Kia and Jeep, which were up 53 and 49 percent, respectively.

Ausjeep Forum celebrates 10 years

Were does 10 years go? This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Ausjeep Forum in Australia.

The forum started from humble beginnings as a website to show products that were available for the XJ Cherokee in Australia. With the collapse of the Snake Racing forum, Ausjeep jumped at the opportunity to venture into the little used forum arena and offer Aussie Jeep drivers a place to talk about their much loved vehicles.

As Ausjeep expanded over the years, offerings like a for sale section, accessory vendors product, a brief venture into a youtube channel, and an ever expanding photo gallery has Ausjeep strongly positioned as Australia’s premier Jeep Forum.

Proudly boasting over 16’000 members, Ausjeep has supported the 2002 Jamboree in Sydney, 2004 in Melbourne, 2008 in Morrisett and the 2010 in Lardner Park Warragul
, Melbourne and now are very excited to help support the 2012 Sydney Jamboree by adding much valued online presence and a strong communication portal for visitors to the event.

Ausjeep has seen the welcome addition to many new models throughout its time, with the most prominent being the addition to the Wrangler lineup, the JK adding the largest base of posts in the forum.

The moderators and administrators hope you enjoy using this free forum as much as we love supporting the ever growing Jeep community in Australia and hope we will be bringing you all the Jeep news and product feedback for many more years to come.

Admin