Jeep® Europe’s Lineup Getting A Makeover

Jeep® is gearing up for a major overhaul of its European lineup, with the iconic Grand Cherokee (WL) and possibly even the legendary Wrangler (JL) facing retirement in favor of new electric models. According to Autocar UK, Head of Jeep® Europe, Eric Laforge, confirmed that the all-new, all-electric Wagoneer S (KX) will replace the Grand Cherokee when it arrives later this year.

The bold move signals Jeep’s commitment to electrification in Europe, where smaller models like the Avenger (JJ) have been driving sales. The Wagoneer S, which is just slightly smaller than the Grand Cherokee, will help Jeep meet stringent European Co2 and EV sales targets.

But the changes don’t stop there. The upcoming all-new, all-electric Recon 4xe (EJ) could potentially take the Wrangler’s place in the European market. Laforge stated, “That’s not decided at the moment, but Recon will be a strong alternative to Wrangler. The Recon is a small brother to the Wrangler and can do a lot off road, although the king of the mountains remains the Wrangler.”

Jeep’s new European strategy is clearly focused on smaller, more efficent models. The brand is preparing to launch its next-generation Compass (J4U), which will be designed and built in Europe, but will be exported globally. Laforge expressed “huge expectations for this ‘second leg’ to reinforce Jeep in Europe,” adding, “We have an expertise in developing compact cars in Europe. We are credible here and can propose our offer to the rest of the world.”

The success of the Avenger, which now accounts for about half of Jeep’s European sales, has boosted the brand’s market share to around 1%. In the UK alone, Jeep sales nearly tripled in 2024 compared to 2023. Laforge noted, “Two years ago, we used to sell 250 to 300 cars a month in the UK. Now we are regularly close to 1,000.” Jeep sold a total of 9,041 units in 2024.

As Jeep continues to evolve its lineup, one thing remains constant: the brand’s commitment to off-road capability. Laforge emphasized that while future models may not all be hardcore trail-crawlers, Jeep will “always strive to be the most capable brand for all-terrain ability in its chosen segments.”

Source: Autocar UK