Jeep’s Image In Jeopardy

USA Today has posted an article that makes the case that with all of the new vehicles coming out that Jeeps image could very well be tarnished in the hard core off roading community.

The newcomers are Compass and Patriot. Based on the Dodge Caliber hatchback, a subcompact sedan that went on sale in February, they won’t have the off-road prowess that has made Jeep famous. (Photo gallery: Jeep’s image at risk?)

If the new models sell poorly or dilute the rugged image, Jeeps might need large sales incentives. That’s good for buyers but bad for Jeep profits and bad for current owners, who’d see their Jeep’s value decline.

While I think that Jeep is going after more of the soccer mom market, I feel like that if they continue to push out high quality off road vehicles, then there image won’t be tarnished. Of course there are always going to be those who complain about the “sissy” or “girly” Jeeps, but Jeep is in the business of making money, and this is all a part of a money making strategy. Which is better, Jeep making “girly” Jeeps, or Jeep not making any Jeeps at all?

Technorati Tags: Girly, Jeep, [Jeep Compass](http://www.technorati.com/tag/Jeep Compass), [Jeep Patriot](http://www.technorati.com/tag/Jeep Patriot)