Although it is a great idea, it would be difficult to implement.
Automakers despise discussing future products. It’s not right to tell the enemy what you are working on, is it? Sometimes, however, a proposal can be so absurd that it’s worth commenting on. Brandon Girmus, Jeep Gladiator’s senior brand manager, recently told Muscle cars and Trucks the brand isn’t “going to create a minivan.”
Girmus stated that whatever the future holds for the brand, “it’s still going be a Jeep.” This brand has some characteristics that a minivan isn’t appropriate for. Even though imaginative renderings can make a compelling-looking concept, we would love to take it out into the wilderness for a few days. Girmus states that a Jeep must be capable of off-road driving and be Trail Rated in order to be considered a Jeep. Minivans aren’t the most versatile platform, so it’s not easy to check all of those boxes using a small family hauler.
The Gladiator is one of Jeep’s most notable recent additions. There are a variety of SUVs and crossovers available from the small Renegade up to the massive Grand Wagoneer, which is coming soon. Even though it doesn’t have a minivan, the company has plenty of family vehicles. This segment is for Chrysler to be the dominant.
Although there is no off-road minivan from Jeep, Girmus stated that the brand is still looking for new ideas and directions. Jeep has also taken the plunge into hybrids and put the powertrains in several models, including its beloved Wrangler. Although we may not see a minivan in the near future, what’s next could be equally exciting or even more. Girmus and his company don’t know what’s next, but there’s probably something in the works.