Just as many were starting to wonder when Jeep would unveil its 2017 Moab concept vehicles, the company Tuesday released two shots teasing some of its plans for the upcoming Easter Jeep Safari.
The Wrangler Switchback (pictured above) and Quicksand (below) will be two of, hopefully, several concepts Jeep will take to the annual event - widely considered to be a premier destination for the 4x4 and off road crowd.
"The Jeep and Mopar brands have once again joined forces to create a selection of concept Jeep vehicles for the upcoming 51st annual Easter Jeep Safari, taking place in Moab, Utah, April 8-16," the company announced in its release.
While no hard details on the vehicles was offered, it appears Jeep's Wrangler Switchback will share some cues with the 2015 Jeep Africa concept, as well as utilizing an Unlimited frame, large off road tires, roof rack, front brush guard and unique doors with center cutouts. The Quicksand looks to have a two-door appearance, with a deleted B-pillar, roll cage, and larger off road tires. If Jeep follows the same path as last year, more details will follow later this week. But whatever the case, every concept this year is certain to undergo heavy scrutiny for any clues to next-generation Wrangler JL production designs. Whether any of them will, is another story. However, last year's Crew Chief 715 Jeep truck concept reportedly contained elements of the upcoming Jeep Pickup, so anything is possible.
Jeep has already said its highly-anticipated Wrangler reboot will enter production this November, and should reach dealer lots by early next year. Many industry observers were hoping the company would lug one of its JL prototype vehicles out to Moab for debut, but it now appears unlikely as both FCA CEO Sergio Marchionne and Jeep head Mike Manley have indicated the JL will probably show off later this year.
The Moab Easter Jeep Safari is hosted by Red Rock 4-Wheelers Inc., and annually attracts over 2,000 vehicles and 10,000 people to the picturesque eastern Utah location.
