THE   JEEPSTER

A V8-powered sports car that can cover the Rubicon Trail, the ultimate test of off-road prowess. It could only be called the Jeepster.

“The original 1948 Jeep Jeepster was an interesting adaptation of a military vehicle for civilian life,” said Micheal Moore, DaimlerChrysler’s chief designer for the interior and exterior of Jeep products. “It looked like it was tough, but it was really only a car. It left out some of the characteristics that make Jeep products unique today — features such as four-wheel drive and true off-road capability. So when we revisited the idea, we made sure this vehicle could cover the Rubicon Trail and still thrive on-road with unique, adjustable suspension.”

The Jeepster’s electronic, four-wheel indendent suspension raises and lowers via two console switches. On-road, the Jeepster has a ground clearance of 5.75 inches. Off-road, the Jeepster can be raised to a rock-climbing 9.75-inch ground clearance. Equipped with short overhangs, a 4.7-litre 32-valve V8 engine, monster dual exhaust pipes, a Quadra-Trac II^® transfer case with on-demand 4WD high and low, a four-speed automatic and an integrated aluminum skid plate, Moore says the Jeepster is not a sport-ute ‘wanna-be.’ It’s the real deal. It’s even equipped with a tow hook designed into the hood hinge.

The Jeepster’s traditional seven-slat grille is flanked by open fenders cantilevered over the front tires. Round headlamps are slightly exposed above the hood surface, and an elegant character line in the center of the hood is in keeping with the original Jeepster. The entire vehicle angles forward — in the on-road position — to create an aggressive, linear look. A roll cage stands at attention under the Jeepster’s soft covertible top. And the deeply sculpted, 19-inch aluminum wheels are mated with Goodyear extended-mobility tires, designed to run for 50 miles after a flat.

Inside, the Jeepster’s instrument panel has a military radio look. Compact controls are arranged concentrically, and the navigational system features a global positioning satellite system, an altimeter and a grade and roll indicator. The Jeepster’s seats are crafted of the same weather-resistant leather used for hiking boots.