Fiat Chrysler Automobiles plans to launch a new Chrysler-branded SUV in the United States. Curiously, the vehicle series will be based on the Chinese-sold, seven-seat Jeep Grand Commander, rather than any existing Chrysler model.
Rumors insist that FCA is already busy taking several test mules bearing misleading Jeep badges through the road trials in the USA. The manufacturer doesn’t comment on any of this, but mentions that the production will take place in Illinois.
Now, it is no secret that U.S. drivers love their SUVs big and roomy, so it isn’t surprising that the company went for the Grand Commander series. What remains a bit of a mystery is why it went for the Chrysler badge instead of the much more popular Jeep. This could be an attempt to revitalize the latter brand somewhat, but there’s no telling for sure.
For those who didn’t care to remember, the Jeep Grand Commander is a seven-seat sports utility vehicle sold exclusively in China. It ships with a nine-speed automatic transmission driven by a turbocharged engine with 268 hp (200 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb×ft) of torque
Photo: carscoops.com