Since there seem to be two very different JK families out there - one which I will call the "Classic", those who modify,wheel and re-invent their Jeeps as they go. They crave capability,simplicity. Then there are those who love their Jeeps no less, but who like the loaded version, like the potential to do all the dirty things, but it's a "Walter Mitty Thing" (meaning Dreams are made of this) Add to the mix that Chrysler/Fiat is going to cater to the biggest sales percentage ; they are not going to build a "stripper" if Dealers can't make $ on them. Loaded JKs have a higher profit margin, sales support them, thats who they build for. Now,the Question; could we have a "World platform", a no-frills stripper that would have a $ margin due to it's low production cost,build the profit in at the bottom? The "Classic" would be no carpet (linex) no radio,steel wheels,vinyl seats,soft top,auto option,no air,p/l,pw,cruise. This is the "Third World" version,complete with DIESEL,yes,diesel.If Jks continue in the direction of ever-increasing complexity and dealer dependence, the image of almost 70 years will be undone in the next decade. Thoughts?

 

All I can think of is ... how do you type like that? My thumb automatically hits the spacebar when necessary; can't imaging typing without doing so. Oh, and you inserted a couple extraneous spaces (see quote above).

I should be so critical: A long time ago I used to make all of my informal in all lower case. Completely lower case. Now, I just reserve it for my signature. LOL.

 

Thank you for actually addressing the issue,which was JKs Not my typing skills,or lack thereof.

 

After owning a jeep for long enough, it will become a "stripped down" version due to everything breaking and the carpet coming out due to mould. So yeah, it would make sense to sell them that way to start with.

 

Considering a Sport starts at a hair over 20 grand, I don't know how much lower they could go. Carpet, Radio, Alloys...that might save you 1000 off of that.

I actually think they should go higher end, like a luxurious Rubicon. Sell it for around 43-45k. The more high profit ones they sell the more dealers stay in business and the more developement they can afford for the next go round.

I don't have a problem with them tarting it up a bit, its only going to attract a larger and more diverse audience.

 

When I bought my used '07 JK a few months ago, I looked for nothing extra. I got AC, as the only option because I had no choice. My kids ask why my windows crank, I manually have to lock all the doors and why are the door panals plastic. My reply is because "it's a Jeep"

 

I think a base to modify is all that is neccessary to sell a jeep. I think the places that they shortchange you on now really hurt sales.(Tires,Gears,Bumpers)
I don't want JEEPs to become Landrovers(Suburb Soccermom Accessories) that are to expensive for most people to get out and wheel with.

 

I had a 2001 Wrangler that I ordered from the factory, it had auto transmission, sound bar, lockable trunk and a window sticker that said it was made for me. I kept it in the garage and frequently wiped the brake dust off the rims before driving it. It was never taken off road and when I had to trade it (I won't elaborate) I wasn't happy about saying goodbye.

I now have a 2010 Wrangler Unlimited with 6 speed. It has manual windows and locks. I wouldn't change a thing except the crappy tires. I waxed it immediately pruchase and continue spray inside the wheel wells with protectant after washing (needless to say the top, all the black plastic trim and tires are given a liberal application of protectant too). This Jeep makes my drive to work enjoyable and has already allowed me to commute over snowy roads. I'll very likely never off road it. I've "modified" it by adding side steps and I have a rear storage rack on the way.

Seems like some people think the Jeep isn't a good daily drive, should be modified, or has to be used off road; I'm not one of them. I can appreciate the only 4x4 convertible 4 door for the fun vehicle it is. However, the factory tires will have a short tenure before they are replaced with some that are more capable.

I guess my point is not everyone is going to modify the Wrangler or take it off road.

 

I like the idea of a stripped down version of most vehicles.
If I were to buy a truck, I would love a vinyl floor, manual everything with the biggest engine possible.
Same goes for sport or muscle cars. No frills, big engine.
As a matter of fact, that's how I'd want most vehicles. Except for maybe a road trip vehicle. But, I could always rent one.
I like all the creature comforts of my Sahara, but I don't need them.

 

Exactly! A base "Third World Stripper" for function & value,the way Jeeps were advertised after WW2. Volume sales would help the profit line.