Ten 2014 Takeaways That Will Drive the Future of Jeep

When it comes to assessing wins and losses, Jeep certainly had far more of the former in 2014, as the brand continues to gain momentum. However, 2014 had a mix of both good and bad Jeep news, in terms of how 2015 will be affected. Here’s the ten most important stories from last year that will have a significant impact on Jeep moving forward.

1. Global Domination – With the success of a number of vehicles in the lineup aside from the Wrangler in 2014, Jeep proved that the brand is poised to be an even bigger force in the years to come.  In addition to posting some of its best monthly sales numbers ever, the brand is also expected to top the one-million annual sales unit mark for the first time ever when all the numbers for 2014 are finally tallied.

2. Buzz On Renegade – Given all the positive reviews about the Jeep Renegade following its launch in Europe in late 2014, all indications are that it will probably be a hit in the U.S. as well next year. If so, expect Jeep to move quickly on plans to sell the subcompact SUV in even more markets in 2015, making the brand even stronger in the years to come.

3. New Cherokee’s Success – After initially coming under fire for its awkward look, the Jeep Cherokee certainly proved its worth in 2014, helping Jeep to post some of their best sales number ever. The compact SUV is poised to have even greater success next year as Jeep bids farewell to the Jeep Patriot and Compass in the compact segment.

4. Going Aluminum – While talk of an aluminum body Wrangler have died down in recent weeks, rest assured, the idea is still being considered. For Jeep, finding as many ways as possible to make the line-up more fuel efficient will remain a top priority in 2015, which unfortunately, could mean the end of an era for Wrangler production in Toledo, OH, as suggested by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles CEO Sergio Marchionne in 2014.

5. EcoDiesel’s Award-Winning Status – Given the success and buzz around the Jeep Cherokee EcoDiesel in 2014, expect to hear news of more models equipped with the engine in 2015. The award-winning 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 has proven that there’s a solid market for the alternative powertrain in the U.S., which will make it a pivotal part of Jeep’s product development strategy next year.

6. Safety & Recall Woes – After being hit with a series of recall issues in 2014, including one where the driver could  accidentally hit the key in the ignition and turn off the vehicle, look for Jeep to take a more aggressive stance on safety in 2015. In fact, I expect most of the new technology to be developed and implemented by the carmaker next year to be centered on improved safety features more than anything else.

7. No Hellcat – Make no mistake about it, recent reports that Jeep has no concrete plans to build a Hellcat Grand Cherokee says a lot about the company’s strategy, despite some fan interest in the higher performance Jeep. In fact, the move could be a clear sign that the days for the SRT Grand Cherokee are also numbered, as the brand works to establish a much more fuel efficient line-up.

8. Wagoneer On Its Way – To much fanfare, Jeep confirmed in 2014 that a new Grand Wagoneer is on the way. News that Jeep was reviving the nameplate, which is expected to go on sale in late 2018, is another sign of Jeep’s global strategy that will continue to build momentum in 2015.

9. More Parts to Love – The brand’s growing global consumer base is bound to fuel an even bigger demand for Jeep aftermarket parts and accessories, as well as a broader scope of offerings for 2015. Expanding on ideas like the Jeep map hood decals to the new JK Safari Cab concept that caught the attention of Jeep fans in 2014, expect to see a huge jump in the type of Jeep accessories in 2015 for both on and off-road enthusiasts.

10. Consumer Reports Worse – Jeep wrapped up the year with the Wrangler Unlimited earning Consumer Reports worse vehicle rating, citing consumer issues with things like the overall ride and gas mileage of the Jeep. Considering the popularity of the four-door SUV, it’s pretty clear that the concerns have not affected the sale of the Jeep, but rest assured, the company will be working aggressively to get those issues addressed in 2015 as it pushes to expand the brand globally.

Chime in with your thoughts on the forum. >>

Looking for a good deal on a new Jeep? Get insider information here.