To reduce complexity, Jeep is likely to prune the number of trim levels it offers on its vehicles in the coming years.
This information was revealed by Jeep's senior vice president, Bill Peffer, in an interview with The Drive published on Wednesday.
“Complexity reduction is something that happens constantly, and we probably could stand to do a little bit more of it,” he said.
In the case of an iconic model like the Jeep Wrangler, buyers can choose from multiple grades like Sport, Sport S, Willys, Sahara, High Altitude, Rubicon, Rubicon X, and Rubicon 392, and to add more complexity, there are various powertrain options that can only be configured with certain grades.
In his interview with The Drive, Peffer used the example of the new 2024 Wagoneer S as a new way to do things. This electric midsize SUV will launch in a single Launch Edition grade. More grades will surely be added, though there will likely be fewer than what we've typically seen from Jeep. One of them will likely be a rugged Trailhawk grade based on a concept shown during last week's debut of the Wagoneer S.
Reducing the number of grades on offer could improve efficiency and quality in production, in addition to easing confusion in the showroom, something Peffer also pointed out in his interview.
As Jeep continues to expand its lineup, reducing complexity will also become more important. In addition to the Wagoneer S, the brand has added a subcompact model called the Avenger in markets outside the U.S. The rugged electric Recon SUV is also coming to North America later this year as an alternative to the Wrangler.
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