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Wrangler will remain body-on-frame, sources say

2K views 14 replies 12 participants last post by  WillB 
#1 ·
http://www.autonews.com/article/201...ody-on-frame-likely-to-stay-in-toledo-sources

October 23, 2014 - 3:04 pm ET

DETROIT -- The next-generation Jeep Wrangler will continue to be a body-on-frame vehicle and won’t switch to unibody construction, Automotive News has learned.

As a result, the popular off-roader will likely remain built in Toledo, Ohio, where city and union officials have been fighting for weeks to keep the Wrangler in its historical home.

But now, sources inside and outside of Chrysler with direct knowledge of Chrysler’s evolving plans, say the off-roader will remain a body-on-frame SUV.

That means it remains compatible with Toledo, whether or not it switches to an aluminum body. Additional sources say Chrysler is leaning towards an aluminum body.

'Most capable'

Jeep spokesman Todd Goyer declined to comment on the next Wrangler, which is due in 2017. However, he insisted that the next generation Wrangler “will be the most capable Wrangler ever.”

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#5 ·
Body on frame wasn't the big issue. The big issue has been did they decide to go IFS and maybe IRS?? Or will solid axles remain? That's the big deal...and there is still no confirmation either way on that, despite many inside sources saying that planning is finalized.
 
#6 ·
This is good news. Unibody and aluminum content were definitely two potential changes Chrysler released to the media as possible driving forces to move Wrangler production from Toledo. It probably achieved the goal of pushing the unions back on their heels so now they are removing the threat.

A lot of Jeeps plans for aluminum components probably hinge on the success of the new F-150 late this year.

IFS is a major change requiring design iterations, prototypes and testing and there have been no leaks on any designs so its probability goes does every day.
 
#12 ·
A lot of Jeeps plans for aluminum components probably hinge on the success of the new F-150 late this year.

IFS is a major change requiring design iterations, prototypes and testing and there have been no leaks on any designs so its probability goes does every day.
Aluminum bodies are old news, Freightliner has been running them since atleast 2005, I believe Mack/Volvo is running them too.

I really hope it stays SFA...
Bet they saw the press release for the new Bronco 2 door... 5.0 included.
 
#7 ·
I really don't care too much if it goes IFS or not, as long as it stays tough as nails, but a Unibody anything is just another name for a throwaway vehicle.
 
#13 ·
All the discussion around the new Bronco seems to be around the power train which will have some great choices. It would be good if Ford talked about the suspension and it's off road prowess if it has any.
 
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