Jeep Cherokee Tipped as New Name of Redesigned Liberty

Over the course of the next three years, Jeep‘s lineup will evolve to add a small and large vehicle, while utilizing platforms shared by Fiat.

One of the biggest immediate changes is the redesigned Jeep Liberty, destined to make its debut early next year as a 2014 model. Rumor has it that the redesigned Liberty could bring back the Cherokee name and will be powered by a 3.2-liter V6 mated to a nine-speed, front-wheel drive transmission. The compact SUV will be the first of several Jeep models build on a Fiat platform – in this case, the same one that is shared with the 2013 Dodge Dart.

As for the rest of the American automaker’s lineup, Jeep plans to add a subcompact as an entry level vehicle for the North American and global markets.  The Patriot will get another year of life, living on at least through 2014 and will see a new six-speed automatic transmission. For Compass enthusiasts that have been disgusted with the offering of a continuously variable transmission, you will be happy to hear that Jeep will be replacing it with a standard six-speed automatic next summer.

Not much will change with the Wrangler model, at least not until its major redesign scheduled for 2017. It will however see a new, eight-speed transmission in 2014. A re-engineered Grand Cherokee will be in showrooms next spring, sporting a 3.0-liter diesel engine mated to an eight-speed transmission. On the inside, the Grand Cherokee will feature an 8.4-inch infotainment screen.

Lastly, the seven-seat Grand Wagoneer will replace the Dodge Durango next year for the 2014 model year.

[Source: Automotive News]