Should MORE Auto MFR's Consider Building Jeep Wrangler-like Products?

As time goes on, Agent 001 and I are keeping a close eye on inbound, all-new Jeep Wranglers. It could be because one of us has a pending order, or it could be because we're just super interested in seeing more real-world, production variations of the all-new Jeep. 

Hell, it could be both. 

That said, whether you love or hate the Wrangler, one thing is certain: It sells in droves. And, it's aspirational. While I do have a lot of co-workers asking me about Tesla and what I think, I also have plenty of 20, 30- and 40-somethings asking me about the Wrangler — especially after the Moab event where concepts are shown. 

This got us thinking. Should more automakers be going after the ultimate utilitarian's dream? Considering the Wrangler has just released an all-new generation (JL) Wrangler, and it seems to be a rather lazy effort, this may leave a gap for an all-new entrant to come online and dominate. 

If Ford plays its hand right, the Bronco may be the first vehicle that can actually challenge the Wrangler's dominance. 

BUT, what about other players? Some you may not have even thought of. THINK: Chevrolet/Cadillac, Nissan, Honda, Volkswagen, Hyundai/Kia, BMW, Toyota/Lexus.

What say you, Spies? Do YOU think other manufacturers should be going after the Jeep Wrangler HARD now that there is a potential opening in this segment?

TomM - 2/8/2018 6:48:42 AM

+2 Boost

Suzuki once made a product similar to a JEEP that Chevrolet sold as well. At the time - it sold fairly well for a while - even though it was sized more like the original jeep that today's version.

I would suspect that there is limited market for vehicles of that ilk - since the original Blazer and Bronco - which were also in that size range - are gone too. Without the connection to "Jeep" - I do not see a compelling reason to have one. IT would have to be a niche product- and most manufacturers are staying away from such.

Maybe one exception - I could see the resurrection of the "Hummer" brand - that might include a smaller version. Today - they would again sell like Hotcakes. But history says that all of this will come crashing down eventually and we will be driving cars again in the future - if we are driving anything at all.

dstampfer - 2/8/2018 12:18:20 PM

0 Boost

Some other manufacturers have tried and failed. Don't see a real need for competition but the market probably exists to some extent.

I like the look, the utility, the open/closed concept with removable doors, roof (hard or soft), foldable windshield. If I needed to go off road, I'd buy one. But, I've got some criticisms and I couldn't bring myself to buy one after I test drove a 2017. Doubt the changes for 2018 would sway me.

The negatives on the unlimited soft top I drove... terrible ride, handling, and noise at speed (75mph+) and pricey for what tech is does or doesn't offer. When compared with smallish to mid-size CUV segment and what I needed (a vehicle for my daughters to drive on pavement in the suburbs), the CUVs win and I bought a CX-5.

skytop - 2/8/2018 7:59:06 PM

-3 Boost

There are already alternative vehicles available to the Jeeep Wrangler.
Ford makes the F150 Raptor, MB makes the G500 Wagen, Land Rover makes 4WD Range Rover,and Toyota makes TRD Tundra, Tacoma And 4Runner Performance Trucks.
Chevy makes the Colorado ZR2, Ram makes the Power Wagon, and Jeep itself makes the Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland. Lots of alternatives to chose from

2ndbimmer - 2/10/2018 9:50:22 AM

+1 Boost

Like Toyota with the FJ Cruiser? That was an epic fail. If Ford doesn't F up the Bronco, that will succeed.
I did an engineering project at Purdue and designed the Hummer H4. The wrangler everyone wish it was. V8 option and more size. This was in 2000. Teacher liked it and a guest speaker from GM development said, "the wrangler is going away in the next few years. No market for a utility vehicle any longer." Shows what hew knew.

malba2367 - 2/11/2018 11:36:15 AM

+1 Boost

The wrangler is tough to compete with...it (just like the 911) has an iconic design that is pretty much perfect. Other companies can try to compete and gain some sales, but it will take a major screw up on the part of Jeep for anyone to make major inroads on wrangler sales.