Jeep is easily the most recognizable off-road brand, practically the inventor of this term, and historians say, one of the most important tools to win the war. Initially this term was used to refer to the cars produced by Willys – Overland Motors, and which were ordered by the United States Army to obtain a car that would allow them to move through the roughest terrain.
The origin of the name of this grandfather of all-terrain vehicles is very curious, since, phonetically, it derives from GP, which was the acronym that the U.S. government assigned to this car for General Purpose, which in English translates to general purposes. However, it was not until Willys ceased production in 1963 and became part of Kaiser Motors that the trade name Jeep was registered and associated as an automotive brand.
In 1970 it went on to produce all types of off-road cars. These cars are currently produced in the line located in Toledo, in the state of Ohio, which coincidentally is the same line that operated the Willys – Overland. Their most prominent model is obviously the Jeep used by the troops during World War II, with the features specified by the army, but later they introduced their models for agricultural purposes called CJ, which translates to “Civilian Jeep”.
Jeep’s best-selling model is undoubtedly the CJ, even today is still produced under license, and is that with its simple mechanics and reliable high-torque engine covers off-road needs perfectly. Jeep gradually adapted its models also to urban situations, without neglecting the initial purpose of traveling the roughest roads.
This transformation began in 1987 with the introduction of the Jeep Wrangler, which incorporated its indestructible inline-6 engine and a much more equipped interior with better finishes based on the platform of its sister, the Cherokee XJ. The Cherokee series was another pioneer in its segment, being preceded by the Wagoneer. The Cherokee was first designed with the participation of Renault in late 1978, resulting in the beginning of an extremely successful series for the company.
This success is due in some ways to the off-road characteristics of the car but also served to take a ride with the whole family. The new Cherokee WK maintains the essence of an all-terrain SUV, capable of traveling the most demanding roads, with comfort and luxury, but maintaining a price range accessible to much of the market, which is why Jeep is a leader in its segment.
The latest Jeep models are definitely all-terrain cars adapted for a comfortable ride in an urban environment, with cargo space. It has entertainment equipment, active safety in its models, and that classic style that reminds us of the early years of Jeep and its origins in the war, carrying the expression of design for function as a flag.