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Fiesta-sized Jeep coming in 2014

We've heard rumors before about a new, baby Jeep to slot below the new-for-2014 Cherokee (pictured) in the automaker's lineup. Now, Edmunds is reporting that the new crossover will arrive sometime in 2014, and will be about the same size as the Ford Fiesta. This currently unnamed vehicle will effectively replace both the Compass and Patriot in the Jeep lineup.
Speaking to Edmunds, Jeep CEO Mike Manley said that the new, small Jeep will be assembled in Italy and marketed globally beginning sometime next year. Manley did not provide many details on the new model, but did say that it will be 4.2-meters (165 inches) long. The Cherokee, by comparison, is 4.6-meters long (181 inches). Furthermore, Edmunds reports that while the new small Jeep will offer diesel power in other markets, there are no plans for an oil-burning version here in the US.
Many other automakers are exploring this smaller crossover segment here in the US. General Motors recently launched the Buick Encore, which is loosely based on the Chevrolet Sonic subcompact's platform. Ford has already launched its Fiesta-based EcoSport in other markets, and has reportedly been pondering the idea of offering it in the US, as well.

Jurassic Park made a big impact on these Jeep drivers

For a certain cohort of young folks, Jurassic Park is a touchstone film from their childhood. Not only did it play into practically every little boy's love of dinosaurs, the movie included some great action scenes and special effects that still hold up today. In its latest video, The Aficionauto takes a look the Jurassic Park Motor Pool, a California car club with over 40 fans who created replica vehicles from the iconic film.
The club is made up of an interesting cross-section of people. Many of them were Jeep Wrangler fans that already loved off-roading and Jurassic Park, and liked the idea of bringing them together. Like any close-knit club, it ends up being about community and people coming together to share their interests. It's quite a heartwarming video. Also, be sure to stay until the end because The Aficionauto teases a future Jurassic Park-themed vehicle. Scroll down to check out the motor pool.

Autoblog Minute: Wrangler Pickup, Triumph Fined, Cherokee Production Moves

Autoblog senior editor Greg Migliore reports on highlights from the week in automotive news on this edition of Autoblog Minute. Show full video transcript text [00:00:00] Triumph Motorcycles in violation of the Safety Act, Jeep looks to adjust its vehicle production strategy, and a Wrangler pickup may soon be be produced in Toledo. I'm senior editor Greg Migliore, and this is your Autoblog Minute Weekly Recap. Triumph Motorcycles was hit with a $2.9-million fine because of a failure to submit safety documents to NHTSA in a timely fashion. An investigation of 1,300 bikes in September of 2014 led to this finding. Other violations were then discovered, like the late reporting of quarterly recall completion rates, and Triumph's failure to supply warranty data. Fines for these violations may seem harsh but U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said: "Manufacturers must comply with their reporting obligations. The law requires it, and public safety demands it. When companies fail to meet those obligations, we will hold them accountable." In FCA news, it seems that production of the Jeep Cherokee will be moved from the Toledo plant to a nearby state. Automotive News first reported on this adding that Jeep may produce a pickup alongside Wrangler to fill the void left by Cherokee. Jeep declined to comment on this news. Speculation surrounding Jeep's production plans depends on the automaker's ongoing negotiations with the UAW. Those are the highlights from the week that was. Be sure to check out my full recap this Saturday, including details on Ford's performance Fusion. For Autoblog, I'm Greg Migliore. Autoblog Minute is a short-form video news series reporting on all things automotive. Each segment offers a quick and clear picture of what's happening in the automotive industry from the perspective of Autoblog's expert editorial staff, auto executives, and industry professionals. Jeep Autoblog Minute Videos Original Video Triumph Motorcycles