Originally Posted by Emoto

Well... JK sales are way down recently (JK sales down 27% http://www.jeepnewsnow.com/modules/n...p?storyid=2898), so this might be the time for Chrysler to start looking at variant models like a pickup to boost sales.

Of course, putting a new model into production muct be very costly, so if cash is tight, they could simply change the options and motor to stimulate sales, or... start offering sales incentives.

Originally Posted by A'sJK

I would say I would be shocked if we ever see the Gladiator.
If one did come out....I would have to have one!

Originally Posted by rkwfxd

Over the years I have lurked on a bunch of off road forums and it seems to me that quite a few people want a small, tuff, durable, capable, solid axle, 4X4 pick up truck. Seems every 4X4 truck forum has a petition to the factory asking for a solid front axle and they all have threads on how to put a solid front axle under their current rig. Also seems to me that one of the biggest and most successful car companies (Toyota) got their start in this country with a small truck that established the companies reputation for tuff, durable, capable....etc. I think that if Jeep did release the JT for civilian sales they would sell a bunch of them. It would be the ONLY factory solid axle truck on the market and they can already compete with the V-6 and 6-speed transmission. The JT in Wrangler X configuration would most likely out perform any other 4X4 truck on the market. Might have to add the locking rear diff to make this claim. If Jeep released it with Rubicon running gear there would be no contest.

I think this JT would be the perfect vehicle for Jeep. Many younger drivers want a good strong 4X4 that will take them everywhere, look cool and last many years. They can not afford the 30+ mall crawlers and they do not need four doors, or four seats because they are still single. A small truck is perfect to throw a bicycle or dirt bike into and take off for a weekend. The only SNAFU I see is that the MPG on the current Wrangler/JY platform is a bit low for these young drivers. I would buy the JT with the V-6 but it might also be smart to offer it with a 4-cylinder in a bare bones model. If Jeep could attracted these new buyers with this JT they could probably keep some life time customers just like Toyota did years ago.

I would buy the JT with a V-6, 6-speed manual, A/C, P/S and manual everything else. The military version of the JT has leaf springs in the rear and coil up front. This is probably a very good compromise of smooth ride with a solid front axle and load carrying ability with a truck bed. I am OK with the sacrifice of a bit of articulation in the rear to be able to carry 1500 pounds or so. I would probably get it in an X configuration as I don't feel the Rubicon is worth the money to me and then I would add my own lockers, lift, and tires and probably drive that thing for the next twenty years and be very happy.


My $0.02

Originally Posted by pearl-drum-man

Good post. The only thing I might disagree with is whether the 4 banger would yield any significant economy benefit in the JK platform.

Originally Posted by Yamaha90

after thinking about it, That JT is just fine...except for hearing aide beige thats fugly. however i still think uncomfortable seating for four is better then strictly two seater. otherwise i'd probably get a JT or Gladiator, if i had to choose between the two, i'd go with the one that has better seating more options and a kick ass name