Jeep strengthened its compact truck market penetration with the introduction of the Cherokee based Comanche. Available in 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive and the longest wheelbase of any U.S. built or import compact pickup of the time. It came with a double walled cargo box equal in length to Chevrolet’s S-10 and longer than all others in the class, and the widest wheel-house dimension. Two four-wheel-drive systems were available, one part time, one full-time. Three engine options from the standard 2.5L four cylinder, a GM sourced 2.8L V6, to the 2.1L turbo diesel coupled with three transmissions, 3, 4, and five speeds. Functional options included numerous axle ratio choices, limited slip differential, power steering, upgrade of road suspension w/ larger fuel tank and skid plates. All covered by a skinny 12/12 warranty, but 2/24 on major powertrain components.
AMC was long collared with a Jekyll and Hyde image of extreme highs and lows offering classics and clinkers with little in between. Depending on your stance, perhaps this Cherokee inspired downsized pickup was one of the positive impacts…on the small truck market.
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