Marchionne: Fiat, Maserati may get SUV based on Jeep Grand Cherokee

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited

There is no doubt that the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been a huge success for Chrysler Group LLC. The model is doing so well for the Auburn Hills automaker that CEO Sergio Marchionne said that the Cherokee may become the base for new SUVs for partner Fiat SpA.

Speaking today on call with investors about Chrysler’s third-quarter earnings, Marchionne said that he is looking to expand the use of the Jeep Grand Cherokee platform within Chrysler and Fiat. He said that if the move is made, all versions would be assembled at the Jefferson North assembly plant in Detroit.

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“I’m delighted with the performance of the Jefferson plant here in Michigan,” he said. Marchionne said he expects the Dodge Durango to launch with the same quality levels.

Marchionne talked about Fiat, even Maserati, getting an SUV based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Refresher: The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee will go on sale next month and will be available 3 models: Laredo, Limited and Overland. The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4×2 model starts at $30,995, while the 4×4 Grand Cherokee Laredo model starts at $32,995. Prices for the 2011 Grand Cherokee Limited 4×4 start at $39,995, while the Overland 4×4 model start at $42,995. All models will be powered by a 3.6L Pentastar V6 unit making 290-hp delivering up to 23 mpg and over 500 miles on one tank of gas. Optional features include a 360-hp 5.7L V8 and a Trailer Tow Group.

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee:

– By: Omar Rana

Source: Detroit News