Grand Cherokee frame may be used for Alfa Romeo and Maserati vehicles 11/09/2010
The resounding success of the updated Jeep Grand Cherokee released earlier this year may lead to the sport utility vehicle's platform being incorporated into Alfa Romeo and Maserati models, reports Bloomberg.
In addition to its namesake brand, Fiat SpA controls Chrysler Group, the automaker that produces the Grand Cherokee, as well as Alfa Romeo, Ferrari and Maserati.
"One of the things that we are now looking at in some detail is the possibility of using this architecture and extending its application for additional products both within Chrysler and outside Chrysler," Sergio Marchionne, CEO of both Chrysler and Fiat, told the news source.
He added that use of the Grand Cherokee frame would give the Alfa Romeo and Maserati brands access to stronger powertrains than those they are currently capable of using.
"It's kind of a curious mix, yet by all appearances it seems to be working," automotive analyst Rebecca Lindland told the media outlet.
She also suggested that a hybrid between the Jeep architecture and Alfa Romeo or Maserati brands could compete in the American market with luxury SUVs currently marketed by BMW.