However, while it might use Dongfeng’s scale, Jeep has remained steadfast in its assurances this will be a Jeep through and through. The design, cabin, electronics and fundamental engineering are all being completed from scratch for this project, with Jeep responsible for the majority of the engineering decisions.
We know it will offer a flexible range of powertrains, just like its smaller siblings, alongside real off-road capability achieved through all-wheel drive and impressive break over and departure angles. Thanks to the tie-up with Dongfeng, this model is expected to be fast tracked, possibly arriving as early as late 2027.
What happened to the Jeep Recon and Wagoneer S?
If you were wondering why Jeep’s new E-segment models still haven’t arrived, don’t worry, so were we. It now appears that Jeep has pivoted away from launching these US-engineered models in Europe despite them already being on sale in their home market.
We have been told this was due to difficult market conditions and European regulations, which will have no doubt had an impact on approving these models for Europe and the UK. But there is also a distinct possibility that these big SUVs have already been out-gunned in terms of range, technology and price by increasingly competent rivals.
The Wagoneer S, for example, was to be a direct competitor to cars like the BMW iX3 or Volvo EX60. However with ‘over 300 miles’ of range, it’s completely outgunned by these more sophisticated European competitors that both headbut 500-mile ceiling in terms of range from a single charge. The Recon, meanwhile, had a more compelling package to offer UK buyers, with real off-road ability and an ethos closer to the now-defunct Wrangler. However, with such small sales volumes forecasted, the numbers clearly just didn’t add up.
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