Jeep News: Spying: Jeep Yuntu Three-Row Crossover is Caught

[William Maley]

Back at the Shanghai Auto Show in April, Jeep introduced the Yuntu SUV concept. Designed for the Chinese market, the Yuntu features 3-rows and a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Jeep is going forward with bringing the Yuntu to production as evidenced by a new set of spy photos.

Despite the camouflage, there is no mistaking this is a Jeep thanks to the seven-slot grille. The overall shape matches up with a design trademark filing made last year in China with a boxy profile and a rear end similar to the Dodge Durango. It appears the design of the headlights and taillights carry over.

A source tells Motor1 the Yuntu provides a preview of what Jeep has in store for their new flagship, the Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer. The design hasn't been finalized, so there could be some changes in store. The source also says Jeep is planning to offer two wheelbase lengths for the Wagoneer. It is unclear what platform underpins the Yuntu - speculation has it on a unibody platform, likely Cherokee. We have heard that the Wagoneer will be using platform that underpins the Ram 1500.

We'll keep you updated if we hear any new details.

Source: Autoblog, Motor1

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[Robert Hall]

I think some of the speculation is off... I thought the Yuntu was going to be a Cherokee-based 3 row?   The Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer is supposed to be a full size model, likely based off the new Ram. 

[David]

24 minutes ago, Cubical-aka-Moltar said:

I think some of the speculation is off... I thought the Yuntu was going to be a Cherokee-based 3 row?   The Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer is supposed to be a full size model, likely based off the new Ram. 

Totally have to agree with you, especially after looking at the pictures, this does seem to be a stretched version of the Cherokee. I would expect much more for a Grand Wagoneer. At least built off GC / Durango platform or a full size Ram platform.

[William Maley]

30 minutes ago, Cubical-aka-Moltar said:

I think some of the speculation is off... I thought the Yuntu was going to be a Cherokee-based 3 row?   The Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer is supposed to be a full size model, likely based off the new Ram. 

Made some clarifications to the story.

[Robert Hall]

Also in the side profile the prototype has the front door to front wheel well short length indicative of FWD transverse engine like the Cherokee.

[daves87rs]

Looks like one of the baby Jeeps grew up.....

[Drew Dowdell]

Too small to be a Grand Wagoneer, too big to be a Cherokee.... 

I hope they aren't moving the Grand Cherokee to FWD... especially since the Explorer is said going back to RWD. 

[Robert Hall]

Well, long wheelbase versions of smaller models is a thing in China...very common with sedans, so I'm not surprised to see it with a CUV.

[Drew Dowdell]

33 minutes ago, Cubical-aka-Moltar said:

Well, long wheelbase versions of smaller models is a thing in China...very common with sedans, so I'm not surprised to see it with a CUV.

That's why I don't get it. It looks Grand Cherokee sized. Just sell that.

[Robert Hall]

Just now, Drew Dowdell said:

That's why I don't get it. It looks Grand Cherokee sized. Just sell that.

True, but the GC isn't available in 3 row, FWD or a 4cyl, which is probably what they want in China. 

[Drew Dowdell]

Just now, Cubical-aka-Moltar said:

True, but the GC isn't available in 3 row, FWD or a 4cyl, which is probably what they want in China. 

This is being tested here though

[Robert Hall]

Who knows...kind of confusing.   I saw somewhere rumors that a US version of the Yuntu could be sold as a Chrysler....small/mid 3 row CUVs are hot right now, and FCA doesn't have any...