Jeepster

By means of the purchase of eligible Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles, customers can select the “Let’s Refuel America” program in lieu of other available incentives and receive a gas card that locks their gas price (up to 87 octane’s’ regular, E85 fuel or diesel fuel) to $2.99 for three years. In order to spice up its vehicle sales Chrysler LLC decided to address consumer worries on increasing gas prices by introducing the “Let’s Refuel America” campaign that will run through June 2, 2008. Of course as with any other campaigns of the sort, there are limitations, so before you sign up we’d advise you to check out the small print. The Let’s Refuel America gas card program works when a customer purchases a new and unused Chrysler, Jeep or Dodge vehicle and selects the program in lieu of other available incentives. The customer is provided with the registration process documentation and registers providing their required personal information via the dedicated web site or toll-free 800 numbers. Once registered, the customer receives their gas card and separately, their Personal Identification Number (PIN) within 4 to 6 weeks of application. The customer then swipes their Let’s Refuel America Gas Card at an eligible gas station, selecting up to 87 octanes regular, E85 fuel or diesel fuel, and enters their PIN to begin the fueling process. After the fuel transaction occurs, the customer’s personal credit card (identified in the registration process) is charged $2.99 per gallon.

These are following vehicles that are eligible for the Let’s Refuel America program:

Small/Compact Car
Dodge Caliber, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible

Mid-size Car
Dodge Avenger, Chrysler Sebring, Chrysler Sebring Convertible

Large Car
Dodge Charger, Chrysler 300, Dodge Magnum

Crossover
Dodge Journey

Minivan
Dodge Grand Caravan, Chrysler Town and Country

Compact SUV
Jeep Patriot, Jeep Compass

Mid-size SUV
Dodge Nitro, Jeep Liberty

Large SUV
Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Commander, Dodge Durango, Chrysler Aspen

Pickup Truck
Dodge Dakota, Dodge Ram, Dodge Ram HD

The following vehicles are not eligible for the Let’s Refuel America program: All SRT models, Dodge Viper, Dodge Challenger, Dodge Ram Chassis Cab, Chrysler Crossfire, Jeep Wrangler and Dodge Sprinter.

Are you lucky like Wayne Reynolds?

See, Wayne Reynolds, a 63-year-old Edmonton resident, took home a new 2008 Jeep Liberty. He was the lucky winner of a contest that the Edmonton Sun had sponsored. The contest also was sponsored by dealers of Jeep vehicles in Alberta.

Thousands of readers of the newspaper entered the contest and Reynolds was really the lucky one after his name was the one picked to drive home the new vehicle.

Eric Hazen is the promotions coordinator and marketing head for Alberta Jeep dealers and on the vehicle, he mentioned, “It’s a pretty nice Jeep. It’s fully loaded and it has a great stereo system.” Aside from those that he mentioned, the sport utility vehicle also comes with a satellite radio, a good quality cold air intake, and an automatic car starter among many others.

I honestly would like to take home a Jeep myself but I guess luck hasn’t been on my side with regards to contests like this one. Maybe I just may have to get myself a four-leaf clover or something. Or to get my own Jeep, the best thing to do would be to save.

We’ve heard it many times before — that “one man’s terrorist is another man’s freedom fighter.”  As a website puts it, “We hate the war, but we support our troops.”

The passion to boost the morale of the American troops particularly those in Iraq prompted Operation Gratitude Foundress Carolyn Blashek to leave her comfort zone and minister to those American soldiers who risk their lives in the battlefield for the sake of their sworn duty.

With the help of other people who share the same cause, an American soldier in Iraq received a 2008 Jeep Liberty from Chrysler through Operation Gratitude last month.

The 2008 Jeep Liberty is divided into three trims, the four-door, four wheel drive 2008 Jeep Liberty Sport Utility that features a four speed automatic, six speed manual transmission; the four-door, two-wheel drive 2008 Jeep Liberty Limited Edition Utility that comes with a four speed automatic transmission and the four-door, two wheel drive 2008 Jeep Liberty Limited Edition Utility that incorporates a four sped automatic transmission.  All models have a 3.7-liter V6 engine and of course reliable ignition switches.  Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2008 Jeep Liberty ranges from $21,940 to $26,125.

That is why Spc. Michael Gallagher from Fort Lewis, Washington was overwhelmed to receive the package containing the keys to the Jeep at Forward Operating Base Warhorse in Iraq.  The package was the 300,000^th “care” package sent by Operation Gratitude to service members in Iraq.  Included in the package was a letter addressed to an “American Hero” in which Chrysler officials said that it was a great honor to support the cause of Operation Gratitude and show their appreciation to deployed American soldiers.

Operation Gratitude is an organization that sends “care” packages to service members assigned in war-stricken countries such as Iraq and Afghanistan.

This family conglomerate started out making big bucks during the World War II. Although the world was in a state of depression because of the war, there were some who making money. This family conglomerate in India, Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd., which is worth $6 billion at present had its small beginnings creating Jeep Willys. And Trading Markets has written that there have been reports that the conglomerate is currently working up an agreement with Chrysler LLC about the Jeep brand.

There are still quite a number of gray areas with regards to these talks between the car maker and Chrysler. Some have reported that maybe Mahindra & Mahindra is trying to buy the brand. Some have also said that they might be arranging that they have a licensing agreement of some sort with regards to the production of the vehicle. Everything has been hush-hush though and we all know how speculations could go. Do not be surprised if there would be more versions of the speculations like maybe the car maker might be looking at purchasing Chrysler or Chevy or Dodge.

So to clear things up, some officials from Chrysler have sent in a statement via India’s Economic Times. They had denied that the Jeep brand was not for sale. And Mahindra & Mahindra officials were also not available for an interview.

A blend of ultramodern technology and design, plus the undying classic appeal from the past, equals the Jeep Willys also known as the ‘Pure American” Jeep! With a compound body styling, it sure is a back-to-basic designed vehicle which will give tribute to the past along with futuristic vehicle technologies.  

According to the Auto Channel, the Willys was first launched at the 2001 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The vehicle features plastic body-technology along with a wide bug shield which allows viewers a thorough approach to the familiar Jeep design while sustaining Jeep’s genuine legendary stature.

"We designed this concept vehicle with the self-expressive, free-thinker in mind. The Jeep Willys’ usefulness and versatility were developed to exist in ecological harmony with nature while being perfectly suited for the rigors of an active lifestyle.  Call it the pure American," says Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President for Design at DaimlerChrysler Corporation.  

"The Jeep Willys’ design was inspired by American culture," said Jordan Meadows, Product Designer at DaimlerChrysler’s Pacifica Design Center in Carlsbad, Calif. "Individualism and free thinking are pure American values as well as Jeep brand elements.  The vehicle exterior design features precise machine-like aesthetics while still showing traditional Jeep design cues, such as the trademark grille and wheel arches and its commanding feel on the road, as well as off the beaten path."

"In keeping with the philosophy of purity, the Willys’ interior is very honest.  The aluminum and plastics used in the vehicle’s structure and body details the interior," said Meadows. "The Jeep Willys is a prime example of a vehicle embracing its past while looking to its future."

"We wanted the DNA of the Willys to speak to the heritage of itsancestors. We were looking for the most efficient yet stylish way to capture the spirit of classic Jeep vehicles enhanced with modern technology.  Marrying 21st century technology with 20th century tradition, the pure American Willys captures the bare essence of the Jeep brand," he ended.

It all started with a 1987 model Jeep Cherokee which was already in flames. The vehicle was in the parking lot in Chico, California and with it in flames, a concerned citizen called up the fire marshal to stop the fire so much so that it would not spread to the building nearby, ChicoEr.com published. Another citizen yet did see a prowler somewhere near the fire and reported it to the police.

It turned out that the prowler was the same person who had burglarized the Jeep Cherokee. The culprit admitted to the burglary but he claimed not to know anything about the vehicle going up in flames.

Well, I guess that would be better - having a burglar start up the flames - than to have your Ford Escort, for example, recalled because it had faulty parts which could make the vehicle flame up with not much warning.

How do you measure a true-blooded sport utility vehicle?

Of course, off-road performance matters. But ergonomics and style shouldn’t be compromised. One SUV that epitomizes those qualities is the new Jeep Liberty. SUV aficionados say the new Liberty is no lukewarm ‘crossover’.

The Liberty is engineered to flaunt the core values of the automakers that were emphasized in the WWII Jeep, the CJ5, the Wagoneer and the Cherokee.

The new Liberty sport utility is made wider, taller and longer than its predecessor. The modifications are entertained by the automaker to etch a milestone in rear seat leg and headroom. Rear cargo space was also enlarged notably. As regards style, the new Liberty sports Jeep’s pedigree with the signature 7-slot grille, flat hood and slab sides with iconic wheel arches.

The new Liberty comes in 3 trim levels - the Sport (with $27,695 MSRP), the North (with $28,645 MSRP) and the Limited (with $32,795 MSRP). The 3.7-litre V6 engine delivers 210hp power to the rear or all four wheels through a standard 6-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic with overdrive.

Aside from the standard Command-Trac II part-time 4x4 system, the sport utility offers a new optional, all-wheel-drive system called Selec-Trac II. This innovative auto system allows drivers to "set and forget" 4WD. The said system continuously monitors traction at every wheel and delivers power as required. To sustain the most difficult road maneuvers, both systems are given Low Range transfer case.

"The new Jeep Liberty combines genuine off-road capability with an unprecedented level of comfort and convenience," said Andrew Heys of Woodgrove Chrysler. "And Chrysler’s new ‘Canadian Pricing’ policy that adjusts prices on a vehicle by vehicle basis to better reflect the strong Canadian dollar, means that the Liberty also represents tremendous value for the money."

The engineers at Jeep have included a range of sophisticated electronics to enhance driving dynamics and ergonomics. To avoid possible roll-back, the Standard Hill Start Assist feature momentarily holds brake pressure on sharp off-road climbs. Hill Descent Control, meanwhile, controls steep descents in 4LO by pulsing the brakes to manage speed efficiently.

The Liberty may not feature the Koni Twin Tube shock absorber but it has more to offer…

Jeep Liberty Limited Specs

Type: Mid-size SUV

Engine: 3.7-litre V6

Horsepower: 210@5200 rpm

Torque: 235 lb-ft@4000 rpm

Fuel economy: City 14.0L/100km; hwy-9.7L/100km

Base price: $32,795

Price as tested: $37,945 

[credit: autos.canada.com] 

One of the premium rides from its lineup is the 2008 Jeep Compass. This stunning vehicle has a certified performance-oriented attribute to go with its furious Mopar Rallye Package. The Rallye Package gives a sporty look to the latest and classy Jeep® Compass. The package includes a Mopar body kit, front and rear fascia appliques, lower honeycomb gront fascia grille, side sill lower panels, 18-inch black painted cast-aluminum wheels, driving lamps with covers, roof-mounted rear spoiler, bright exhaust tip and the famous Mopar rallye badge.

The 2008 Jeep Compass takes you to greater heights without sacrificing style, convenience and performance. This vehicle is absolutely the new look of modern off-roading!

Here are the standard specs and features of the 2008 Jeep Compass courtesy of Jeep.com:

• Engine: 2.4L 4-Cyl DOHC 16V Dual VVT Engine (172 hp)
• TRANSMISSIONS: 5-Speed Manual Transmission
• WHEELS: 17" x 6.5" Aluminum Sparkle Silver Wheels             
• SOUND SYSTEMS: AM/FM Stereo with CD Player & Auxilliary Input Jack Details             
• SEATS: Cloth Low-Back Bucket Seats w/Adjustable Head Rests
• 120-Ampere Alternator             
• 525-Ampere Maintenance Free Battery             
• Brake Assist              
• Electronic Stability Program              
• Anti-Lock Front Disc/Rear Drum Brakes             
• Rear 60/40 Folding Seat             
• Floor Carpet             
• Full-Length Floor Console             
• Sliding Armrest w/Flip-Pocket for Cell Phone/MP3             
• ltrafloor(TM) Washable/Removable Vinyl Load Floor         
• Rear Window Defroster             
• Liftgate Door with Fixed Glass             
• Sliding Sun Visors with Mirrors             
• Sentry Key® Theft-Deterrent System Details             
• Instrument Cluster with Tachometer             
• 120-MPH Speedometer             
• Variable Intermittent Windshield Wipers             
• Rear Window Wiper/Washer             
• Single-Low-Note Horn             
• 12-Volt Auxiliary Power Outlet             
• Power Accessory Delay             
• Body-Color Bodyside Molding             
• Tire Pressure Monitor Warning Lamp Details             
• Odometer with Outside Temperature Display             
• Front Dome Lamp             
• Cargo Compartment Lamp             
• Halogen Headlamps             
• Fog Lamps             
• Body-Color Fascias             
• Accent Color Liftgate Applique             
• Side Roof Rails             
• 13.6-Gallon Fuel Tank             
• Power Rack-and-Pinion Steering             
• Steering Wheel             
• Touring Suspension             
• Tilt Steering Column             
• Compact Spare Tire             
• Rear Seat Heat Ducts             
• Non-Locking Fuel Filler Cap

Last January 24th up until the 27, the Jeep brand came a-marching to Aspen, Colorado where it sponsored the Winter X Games by ESPN. It had set out again its Tag Shop which actually is a real cool booth.

What can one do at the Tag Shop? Well, Jeep is really the brains behind such a booth. And once you are there, you would be able to find various types of art and graffiti done by artists. Athletes who joined the games would also be found there for some autograph moments.

Despite the cold, Jeep had designed the Tag Shop to be really hot for it has been designed to be heated and covered. There also is a DJ booth and a VIP area. Top that, would you?

Anyway, the Tag Shop is purely about Jeep. See, you get to find at the Tag Shop’s garage the all new 2008 Jeep Liberty as well as the 2008 model of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited. You can take all the pictures you want posing with the hubcaps, air deflectors, or the whole vehicle so you can boast to all the people back home just what you had been doing at the snow-covered mountain in Colorado.

John Plecha is the director for the vehicle brand’s marketing and global communications team and he shared via The Auto Channel, “Because there has never been anything like it at Winter X, the Tag Shop allows us to maximize our space by giving us a unique way to interact with the crowds and communicate the essence of the Jeep brand. Since Winter X and Jeep are all about having fun, the Tag Shop brings that to life this year with incredible displays of rideable art created by amazing artists; special appearances by top athletes and artists; giveaways and much more.”

Sure enough, the whole Tag Shop deal had become a success.