Tag: Jeep

  • Jeep clothing mainland sales rises

    Jeep clothing mainland sales rises

    Menswear retailer China Outfitters, which holds the Jeep license on the mainland, has boosted sales and profits in the first half year.

    While same-store sales in its own store network – which now numbers 564 – slipped by 3 per cent, online sales through Tmall and other platforms soared 20.3 per cent.

    China Outfitters achieved sales of RMB445.7 million (US$65 million) for the period, up 0.7 per cent on the same period last year. Profit attributable to shareholders rose 16 per cent RMB7.9 million ($1.15 million).

    Jeep is by far China Outfitters’ largest brand, with 565 points of sale including those of third-party retailers. Other labels in the stable are SBPRC, London Fog, MCS, Zoo York, Barbour, Lincs and Marina Yachting.

    Sales in self-operated stores rose 2.7 per cent, accounting for 77.3 per cent of total revenue, largely driven by outlet store growth.

    Sales to third-party retailers decreased by 14.5 per cent, due to a smaller store network.

  • Ford recalls over 3,200 Everest, Explorer cars for multiple problems

    Ford recalls over 3,200 Everest, Explorer cars for multiple problems

    Ford is recalling more than 3,200 Everest and Explorer SUVs to fix a battery fault, incorrectly installed exhaust filters, and faulty camera control software.

    In the case of the Everest, 1,256 cars manufactured between Nov. 24, 2021, and Feb. 3, 2023, have a low-battery charge fault, which could cause the transmission to engage “park” while moving at low speeds.

    Due to a software problem, if the battery level drops below a critical threshold, the transmission may shift into park when the vehicle is traveling at below six kilometers per hour.

    This may cause a sudden stop without the rear brake lamps illuminating, increasing the risk of an accident.

    Two cars manufactured between May 19, 2022, and June 28, 2023, are also being recalled because their diesel particulate filter has not been correctly fitted in the exhaust system to filter soot out of the exhaust gases to ensure that the vehicle complies with emission standards.

    The incorrectly fitted filter also leads to more frequent exhaust gas regeneration, resulting in reduced fuel efficiency and oil life, and non-compliance with emissions regulations.

    The Everest, Ford’s top-priced SUV, will see 1,967 recalled because of a failure in the 360-degree camera system, causing a loss of rear camera image while in reverse.

    A loss of video frames in the image processing module occurs during re-initialization or when the cameras enter sleep mode during the re-initialization process. This causes a blue image or a full blue or black screen.

    The Everest began to be recalled on Aug. 31 and the Explorer on Sept. 5.

  • Land Rover Range Rover Teased Ahead Of Debut

    Land Rover Range Rover Teased Ahead Of Debut

    The Land Rover Range Rover is no ordinary SUV and the arrival of the new-generation model is always special. It’s one of the oldest brands in the full-size luxury SUV segment and the next-generation model will rival the likes of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS and BMW X7 and other premium SUVs like the Aston Martin DBX, Porsche Cayenne, and even the Lamborghini Urus gave its pricing. Land Rover has released the first teaser of the 2022 Range Rover which is a new-generation model and is all set to make its official debut on October 26, 2021.

    Now the teaser image doesn’t give us much insight of the design but we get a sense that the overall silhouette has been retained. That said, expect to see some significant updates made to the front end and even at the rear. The bronze color SUV in the teaser image also gives us an idea that Land Rover might introduce some new body colors on the new Range Rover. Then, it is also expected to be an all-new model by transitioning to Jaguar Land Rover’s new MLA platform. Then, the 2022 Range Rover will be offered with a variety of powertrain options which will include plug-in hybrid (PHEV) as well, and of course in both configurations. The latter is probably scheduled to arrive later in the model’s life cycle. And finally, expect a performance version as well with the 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V8 engine sourced from BMW.

    Switching to the new platform should bring some significant updates as well like more room on the inside where a potential increase in the vehicle’s size is expected. Land Rover’s latest Pivi Pro infotainment system is one of the safest guesses on the inside, given its flagship status and some variants are also rumored to get rear-wheel steering offering tighter turning radius at lower speeds and better agility at higher speeds

  • Fiat India Brings In Special Finance Schemes To Attract Customers

    Fiat India Brings In Special Finance Schemes To Attract Customers

    Automakers across the board are coming up with unique finance schemes to attract more consumers during these difficult times. If you’re one of those who looking at own any of the SUVs from the Jeep brand then Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) India has also announced a slew of financial packages that will make it slightly easier for you to finalize the deal. The ‘Jeep for All’ aims to reduce EMIs for corporate salaried customers, offer lowest loan interest rates on loans and give 100 percent on-road price funding albeit only for women.

    The schemes also promise coverage in the event of a job loss, critical illness or an accident. In such cases an arrangement assures customers of low EMI in the first 24 months of the loan tenure. Dr. Partha Datta, President, and Managing Director, FCA India said, “We are pleased to announce ‘Jeep for All’ which will offer customers a means to own a Jeep, comfortably within reach. ‘Jeep for All’ adds on to our booking-to-purchase digital retail module with an added sense of reassurance and peace of mind for our customers.”

    Under the scheme salaried customers can opt for a vehicle loan of up to seven years at attractive interest rates. This will offer them a three-month low EMI repayment option every year throughout the tenure of the loan. Customers can choose which months they want to pay lesser EMIs. The company is also promising 90 percent funding of the on-road price of the vehicle which goes up to 100 percent for women buyers. Lastly there’s also an option of availing a step-up loan for a tenure of up to seven years which allows the customers to pay the lowest EMIs for the first 2 years.

  • Jeep Working On A Suzuki Jimny Rival For Europe

    Jeep Working On A Suzuki Jimny Rival For Europe

    Fiat Chrysler Automobile (FCA) is reportedly working on an ultra-compact Jeep SUV which will be positioned below the Renegade, in the European market. According to the report filed by Auto Express, which recently spoke to Marco Pigozzi Jeep’s Head of Brand Marketing in Europe, the new subcompact off-road SUV will act as a rival to the popular Suzuki Jimny. The report also claims that the new Jeep SUV could possibly come with an all-electric powertrain acquired from FCA’s planned merger with PSA.

    Speaking to Auto Express, Pigozzi said that the upcoming Jeep SUV will be about 4 meters in length, and in addition to being a capable everyday vehicle, it will also come with the off-road capabilities that the Jeep brand is known for. Furthermore, given the brands push for electrification, even if not fully electric, the upcoming ultra-compact Jeep SUV could possibly take the Plug-in Hybrid route, like the Renegade and the Compass. Commenting on that Pigozzi told Auto Express, “We have the capability to deliver the electrification we need.”

    While a sub-4 meter Jeep could really turntable for the brand in the Indian market, given the popularity for SUVs, but right now it is too soon to even speculate the SUV coming to our shores. Also, with the FCA and PSA merger underway, it is possible that the SUV might borrow the Common Modular Platform architecture used by Peugeot-Citroen. Engine and other technical specifications are currently unknown, but the SUV is expected to arrive sometime in 2022.

  • BMW X6 Revealed; Global Launch In November

    BMW X6 Revealed; Global Launch In November

    BMW took the wraps off the new-generation X6 sports activity coupe. It is the third generation model and has been updated completely. Beginning with the looks, the X6 gets a bigger kidney grille up front and the headlamps are more angular than rounded. Plus, the grille itself has a lighting function should you choose to switch it on. The X6 is now more chiseled and wears a sculpted look as compared to the more rounded look that the outgoing model had. The new X6 also grows in size with the length growing by 26 mm to 4,935 mm and the width growing by 15 mm to 2,004 mm. The wheelbase too increases by 42 mm to 2,975 mm, although the height is now reduced by 6 mm at 1,696 mm.

    The interior has been updated as well. It has a minimalist, sporty look thanks to Vernasca leather upholstery and new dashboard design which is driver focussed. Like any other BMW SUV, the new X6 too gets a bunch of standard and optional features which include multifunction seats with massage function for the driver and front passenger, four-zone automatic climate control, thermoelectric cup holders, Panoramic roof, interior fragrance package and a Bowers & Wilkins 3D Surround Sound System.

    BMW will offer four engines on the new-generation X6 including two petrol and two diesel engines. There will be V8 petrol and straight six petrol engines making 530 and 340 bhp respectively. And there is an in-line 6-cylinder diesel engine in two states of tune, making 400 bhp and 265 bhp. All new BMW X6 models come as standard with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, while intelligent all-wheel drive maximises traction, agility and directional stability.

    Other features on the new BMW X6 include air suspension wherein one can alter the ride height of the SUV through 80 mm, and there is an off-road package on offer as well but not on the BMW X6 M50i and the BMW X6 M50d.

    The other interesting feature is the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, which responds to the command of ‘Hey BMW’ and users can choose the name for the digital assistant as well. The assistant will be able to explain all sorts of different functions provide up-to-date information and assist the driver. The range of functions and skills available will be constantly expanded as part of regular updates, which can be carried out seamlessly on a smartphone and in car via remote software upgrade.

  • Jeep Compass Based Seven-Seater SUV In The Works For India

    Jeep Compass Based Seven-Seater SUV In The Works For India

    The Jeep Compass was a game changer when it first arrived in 2017 and helped the Fiat Chrysler Automobile (FCA) cement the Jeep brand in the premium segment. Now, a report suggests that the American automaker is looking to further capitalize on the success of the Compass and is in working on a seven-seater version for the Indian market. A report states that the head honchos at FCA have approved a new top-of-the-line SUV under the Jeep brand that will hit the market by 2020-21. The new Compass-based seven-seater SUV will take on the likes of the Toyota Fortuner, Ford Endeavour, Skoda Kodiaq, Honda CR-V and the likes, when it goes on sale.

    Interestingly, Jeep’s plans to produce a seven-seater SUV for India aren’t new. However, the report states that the project was given the green light only now. The Jeep Grand Compass, as it is touted to be called, will get a proper 4×4 drivetrain and will be based on the all-new Compass that is in the works for 2020. The model will be produced at the automaker’s facility in Ranjangaon, near Pune and is likely to hit the market by the second half of next year or by early 2021.

    The new Jeep Grand Compass will help the American establish itself in the premium end of the SUV space, and solidify its position in the overall SUV space. The seven-seater SUV will be followed up with the more affordable subcompact offering in Jeep India’s stable that will hit the market in the following years. FCA said that the company had no comments at the moment on the same.

    It will be safe to say that the upcoming Jeep seven-seater SUV will retain the automaker’s DNA at its core, complete with the brand’s off-roading capabilities and premium positioning. Expect to see a host of new tech and features from the company’s global stable. Engine options are unclear at the moment, but Jeep is likely to offer both petrol and diesel versions. The 2.0-litre MultiJet II turbo diesel could be used on the new model too, albeit with higher power output.

    Meanwhile, Jeep India is currently in the process of upgrading the Compass to the BS6 regulations. The newly launched Compass Trailhawk already gets a BS6 ready engine, and other variants of the SUV will meet the new norms soon. The automaker is also likely to introduce the diesel automatic version of the Compass towards the end of this year or probably in the first half of 2020.

  • Jeep Compass Trailhawk Bookings Start In India

    Jeep Compass Trailhawk Bookings Start In India

    FCA India today announced that it has opened bookings for the Jeep Compass Trailhawk. Customers can now book the Trailhawk at a fully refundable ₹ 50,000 at any of the 82 FCA all-brand showrooms across 70 Indian towns and cities. The Trailhawk is the first Made-in-India Jeep to have earned the coveted Trail Rated badge, a global benchmark that is given to Jeep 4×4 SUVs which are developed to have much superior off-roading capabilities compared to regular 4×4 Jeep models

    The Trailhawk gets an anti-glare decal on the hood which ensures the sun does not hamper the driver’s visibility; the front bumpers are redesigned and are now devoid of the aerodynamic overhang. The air dam has been provided at the bottom of the front bumper for enhanced air intake. The Trailhawk also comes with the comfortable frequency damped suspension, albeit has ground clearance much higher than the regular Compass to aid extreme on- and off-road conditions. The Compass Trailhawk monograms on the front and rear are now matte, neutral grey and the 7-slots in the grille also gets matte, neutral grey frames. The Trailhawk is given a tow hook at the rear which makes it capable of pulling out a stuck vehicle

    Announcing bookings open, Kevin Flynn – President and Managing Director, FCA India said, “The Trailhawk is a product which is developed for customers looking for a hugely capable and exclusive SUV in the compact category. It is the first compact SUV to be offered the BS VI turbodiesel engine, nearly a year before the new emission norms come into effect and, it is the only compact SUV which comes with a 9-speed automatic transmission.”

    Under the hood, the Trailhawk gets a 2-litre turbodiesel engine is re-engineered with additional technology to make it fully compliant with the BS 6 norms which come into play on April 1, 2020. As the engine will be available in all Trailhawks nearly one year before the norms become effective, it uses urea technology that will ensure peace of mind for customers. This means that the BS VI engine is capable of running on BS IV diesel until BS VI diesel is widely available in the country.

  • Fiat Chrysler Auto Expands India Footprint

    Fiat Chrysler Auto Expands India Footprint

    Fiat Chrysler Auto is in the process of expanding its India business and it recently opened its 82nd point of sale in India. At present, FCA has its presence in 70 cities and town in India which include all-brand showrooms that sell Jeep, Fiat and Abarth vehicles along with Jeep Connect showrooms, which are premium retail outlets that cater to potential customers in satellite cities and towns. The company recently inaugurated two all-brand showrooms in Bengaluru along with a new all-brand showroom in Panjim, Goa along with two new Jeep Connect showrooms in Ajmer, Rajasthan and Patiala, Punjab. Along with sales points, Jeep is also increasing its after sales touch points in India. At present, the company has 84 Mopar (mobility and parts) workshops.

    Kevin Flynn, President and Managing Director, FCA India said, “Our vision was to have a growing retail and after-sales network which could strategically complement our growing volumes in the market. With 82 retail outlets in 70 towns and cities we are covering a significant amount of landmass and customer base. We have grown over 50 per cent in our retail network since the Jeep Compass launch in August 2017. Our effort has been to maintain consistency in our network expansion and ensure excellence in customer experience along with improved service coverage.”

    The company’s last launch was the Jeep Compass Sport Plus Variant, which is priced at ₹ 15.99 lakh and is positioned above the base Sport variant, getting more features. Jeep has two new products coming up in India which are the Trailhawk variant of the Jeep Compass and the new-generation Wrangler Unlimited.

  • Jeep Compass Sport Plus Launched In India

    Jeep Compass Sport Plus Launched In India

    The Tata Harrier has surely escalated the competition in the compact SUV segment and it has proved to be a strong product, especially at the price Tata Motors has launched it. The Jeep Compass is the obvious-first rival to the Harrier and the company has added a new Sport Plus variant to the range in a bid to compete against the Harrier. The Jeep Compass Sport Plus has been launched in India at ₹ 15.99 lakh for the petrol variant and ₹ 16.99 lakh for the diesel variant.

    The Sport Plus variant of the Compass has been positioned above the base Sport variant and is more feature-rich. The added exterior kit includes 16-inch alloy wheels finished in silver, black roof rails and rear parking sensors. The rear windscreen, pillars and window fringes are also finished in black. The cabin of the Jeep Compass Sport Plus trim will be equipped with a 5.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system and dual-zone climate control which the base trim doesn’t get. We would have liked Jeep to also include the power folding wing mirrors which makes maneuvering through tight spots easy. However, safety kits such as dual front airbags, ABS, ESC and traction control are standard throughout the range.

    Mechanically the Compass Sport Plus remains identical to the base variant. The diesel is powered by the same 2.0-litre, four-cylinder Multijet turbo motor which makes 172 bhp and 350 Nm of peak torque and is mated to a six-speed gearbox as standard. The petrol is the 1.4-litre, four-cylinder MultiAir Turbo motor which develops 161 bhp and 250 Nm of peak torque and is also offered with an automatic gearbox, while the six-speed manual is standard.

    Other than the Harrier, the Jeep Compass Sport Plus will compete with the W4 variant of the Mahindra XUV500 and SX variant of the Hyundai Creta.

  • Fiat Automobiles to roll out Jeep Compass on June 1

    Fiat Automobiles to roll out Jeep Compass on June 1

    Fiat India Automobiles has confirmed that it will roll out its first ever, ‘Made-in- India’ Jeep Compass production vehicle from the assembly line in Ranjangaon near Pune on June 1.

    Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will roll out the first ever ‘Made in India’ Jeep Compass production vehicle from the assembly line at Ranjangaon on Thursday, a company statement said.

    This development comes 23 months after Fadnavis, along with a high level delegation met senior Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) officials in June, 2015 at the company’s headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan in the Unites States.

    The delegation discussed FCA’s investment strategy in Maharashtra and reaffirmed the state government’s interest in strengthening ties with FCA, besides offering full support to the company’s manufacturing, said the statement.

    FCA has invested USD 280 million towards localisation of the Jeep Compass and has enhanced the facility to world standard. The Ranjangaon facility has become a significant manufacturing and export hub for FCA joining Brazil, Mexico and China on the global production map.

    FIAPL will be FCA’s sole manufacturing facility that will supply Jeep Compass SUVs to all international right-hand drive markets, it said.

  • Bonia to close more stores

    Bonia to close more stores

    Malaysian fashion retailer Bonia will close more of its loss-making outlets next year.

    But despite weak earnings, the boutique brand known for its leather goods and footwear plans to increase its advertising and promotional spending.

    Pretax profit fell nearly RM26.7 million (US$6 million) for its latest financial to June 30 to RM45.93 million. Bonia cites the slowing economy in Malaysia and Singapore as the core reason.

    About 10 Bonia outlets have been closed internationally this year, and group MD Albert Chiang says the group is undertaking “prudent measures” and being selective about store openings.

    Bonia owns the Bonia, Carlo Rimo and Sembonia brands and has a presence in Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore and Vietnam.

    The group also owns distribution rights to Braun Buffel, Jeep, Pierre Cardin, Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club.