Liberty successor to be different

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Published: 3/28/2012 - Updated: 28 minutes ago

BY TYREL LINKHORN BLADE BUSINESS WRITER

AUBURN HILLS, Mich. -- Jeep's design chief says the replacement for the Jeep Liberty will be much different from the current model and should attract new buyers, but he offered assurances Jeep isn't turning its back on its rugged heritage.

"It's definitely not the old Liberty," Mark Allen said Tuesday after a preview of Jeep concepts built for the upcoming Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. "It's a step in the right direction. It's a much more efficient Jeep, it's a much more efficient-looking Jeep, honestly. It's not what we have now."

Jeep launched the Liberty in 2001 to replace the aging Cherokee. The SUV was redesigned for the 2008 model year, with new styling that squared off the first generation's curves for a more boxy, masculine look. Since then, little has changed inside or outside the Liberty while Jeep has updated the majority of its lineup.

The new model, which like the Liberty will be built in Toledo, will use Chrysler Group's versatile front-wheel-drive platform that also will go under the upcoming Dodge Dart. A more efficient engine and transmission combination should greatly improve fuel mileage. Four-wheel drive is expected to be offered.

Mr. Allen said he was proud of the vehicle's design but declined to outline any specific clues or give size comparisons with the current model. So far, no images have leaked of the vehicle's sheet metal, though several automotive magazines and Internet blogs published spy photos said to be of a test car. However, that vehicle was clad in body panels from an Alfa Romeo Giulietta and offered no real hints at what the new SUV will look like.

Mike Manley, the brand's chief executive officer, said Jeep will unveil the new model early next year. That likely will come in January at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Michael Barchick, vice president and general manager at Charlie's Dodge Chrysler Jeep in Maumee, said dealers have been told little about the coming model, aside from being encouraged to build up inventories to hold them over from August until the new vehicle hits showrooms.

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Liberty successor to be different