Jeep Confirms Grand Cherokee Delay

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV is delaying the launch of its redesigned Grand Cherokee SUV, which had been due to bow in late 2017, for at least a year. A Reuters report earlier this month indicated FCA was slowing the launch of at least 12 models, including the Grand Cherokee.

CEO Sergio Marchionne tells reporters that engineers will use the extra time to fully re-evaluate the redesigned SUV's basic underpinnings. In the meantime, Jeep says the current Grand Cherokee will get a "mild refresh" before the new model is completed.

The Grand Cherokee's platform also will carry a larger Grand Wagoneer derivative that Jeep hopes can compete against Range Rover and other luxury 4x4s. FCA previously has said it planned to introduce the Grand Wagoneer in late 2018, but suppliers told Reuters that date likely will be pushed back too.

Despite the delays, Jeep CEO Mike Manley maintains the nameplate is on pace to eclipse global sales of 1.9 million units by 2018. He says the launch of the brand's all-new Wrangler is "broadly on track," countering the Reuters report that identified it as one of the vehicles being delayed.