PRESS RELEASE
Chrysler Introduces Jeep Dakar at North American Auto Show
Chrysler Introduces Jeep Dakar;
Designers Explore Four-Door Jeep Wrangler
DETROIT, Jan. 5 -- There will be a lot of strained necks at
auto shows across the country as Jeep(R) fans try to get a glimpse of Jeep
Dakar. Jeep designers are confident that outdoor enthusiasts will stop and
take a double-take at Jeep Dakar, Chrysler's 1997 concept four-door
Jeep Wrangler that was unveiled today at the North American International Auto
Show in Detroit.
"People will definitely look twice when they see Dakar," said John E.
Herlitz, Chrysler Corporation's Vice President of Product Design. "Compared
to our 1997 Jeep Wrangler, Dakar comes complete with twice as many doors and
is prepared for twice the adventure."
Jeep designers made room for two additional doors by stretching Dakar's
wheelbase to 108.5 inches, almost 15 inches longer than the 1997 Jeep
Wrangler. "With a longer wheelbase, we are able to offer additional space for
passengers and their gear," said Trevor M. Creed, Chrysler Corporation's
Design Director. "We are also able to further improve the ride by positioning
backseat passengers in front of the rear axle as opposed to directly on top of
it."
To enhance the sense of being outdoors and further build on the
adventuresome spirit of Jeep Wrangler, Dakar was given a new windshield, side
glass and all-new steel roof. The roof offers a variety of features including
a full-length built-in tubular roof rack, as well as a manual canvas sliding
sunroof, front-mounted rally lamps, spare tire storage, and
strategically-placed access handrails that run the length of the D-pillar.
The spare tire is clamped on to the roof bars and features a special sliding
mechanism which allows for easy, quick, no-hassle removal.
Other multi-purpose features include a folding shovel integrated into
Dakar's front fender, jerricans built onto the rear tailgate, and an adventure
module designed to fit inside of the rear door that features a night vision
scope, binoculars, flashlight and compass. "Always be prepared," said Creed.
"You never know where Dakar's spirit of adventure may take you."
Dakar's earth-toned interior shares the same rugged characteristics of a
1997 Jeep Wrangler but features wood trim, woven leather seats and Berber
carpeting. "We utilized wood and leather to give the interior of the vehicle
more of a civilized, European-style flavor," said Creed.
"At a time when many sport utility vehicles look the same, Dakar is in a
class by itself," said Creed. "No one will mistake the identity of Jeep Dakar
as it is an authentic, instantly-recognizable design execution that opens up
new opportunities for one of the world's most recognized brands."
Whether it's on a safari, on the trail, at the beach, or even stargazing,
the combination of the Wrangler's spacious new 4-door body and thoughtful
features make Jeep Dakar a rewarding experience.
Dimensions (inches)
Overall Length: 166.5
Overall Width: 72.0
Overall Height: 75.0
Wheelbase: 108.5
Front Track: 58.0
Rear Track: 58.0
Wheels: Cast Aluminum
Front 8 x 15
Rear 8 x 15
Tires: Goodyear
Front 31 x 10.5 Wrangler AT
Rear 31 x 10.5 Wrangler AT
Engine: 4.O L, I6
Drivetrain: Four Speed Automatic Transmission
Body: Four Door
All-Steel Body on Frame
Suspension: Front Carryover Wrangler
Rear Carryover Wrangler
Brakes: ABS
Front Disc
Rear Drum
Color: Exterior: Desert Sand
Interior: Saddle Tan Interior with woven
leather seat inserts
CONTACT: Bryan Zvibleman, 810-512-2686, or Tony Cervone, 810-512-2700, both of Chrysler