By Theodore Opara
YOU can call it the Jeep invasion if you like or the real coming of the Jeep into the country. This is because the Jeep has never been introduced into the Nigerian market with such a backup and aggressive marketing by any marketer.

But Weststar Associates, who incidentally represents the Mercedes brand in the country, a premium brand, has repositioned the Jeep in Nigeria. Weststar decided to flood the market with all models of Jeep including th Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, Patriot and Compass.

Jeep Grand Cherokee

To demonstrate its preparedness to take the Jeep to where it ought to be in Nigeria, Weststar Associates, having introduced the Jeep siblings into the Nigerian market, took it to the Abuja and Lagos Motor shows where the Jeep received attention from people who craved to own the real thing.

With quality models, Weststar Associates has proved that the Jeep brand has what it takes to lead the country’s Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) segment in terms of luxury, utility and recreation. The Jeep sibling competes in the large, medium and compact (SUV) segments where the Japanese has been holding sway.

But the Jeep has one thing going for it under the present ownership in Nigeria  – the nationwide after sales backup by Weststar Associates network like that of Mercedes Benz brand is confirmation that Jeep owners stand to enjoy quality products and service.

The Jeep offers engines ranging from 2.4 litre to V8 which means that there is always one Jeep engine that fits your motoring needs.

For instance, while the Patriot and Compass are available with 2.4 litre engines, the Wrangler offers you a V6 engine to take any terrain.

The flagship of the Jeep family, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in both six and eight-cylinder engines. Apart from the petrol engines, all the Jeep models also come in diesel engines which are quite refined.

The Jeep Compass, which competes with the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CRV is powered by a 2.4 DOHC 16 Valve engine. This powerplant delivers an amazing fuel efficiency of 6.4 litre/100km and 170 horsepower.

The engine’s dual Variable Valve Timing electronially controls both intake and exhaust valves, thereby helping to improve power and encourage economic performance.

The all-terrain conquering Jeep Wrangler, which comes in different models is powered by Pentastar 3.6 V6 engine, matched to the legendary command-Trac 4WD system. The Wrangler comes with luxury leather interior.

It is available in ribcon, Sahara and Sport versions.

The flagship of the Jeep family, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is luxury on wheel with premium amenities. It is available in both six and eight cylinder engines. Leather interior, premium sound system, multiple air bags and safety features stand the Grand Cherokee out in the luxury sport utility vehicle segment.