We have been busily working the phones today and have confirmed that Jeep teased dealers with a concept Jeep Wrangler-based pickup at a recent dealer meeting.
Similar to the 2005 Gladiator concept (or even an updated version of the original Gladiator), the Wrangler pickup shown to dealers was intended to gauge reaction to such a truck. Overall the dealer body was very excited, however few details were given to dealers.
Identical to the Wrangler from the B-pillar forward, the teaser had a small quarter window behind the front door and there will be some storage behind the front seats. Unlike the J8/Sarge this pickup had a true bed with a gap between it and the cab. The Unlimited-based pickup is said to retain the JKs link-coil suspension. In order to maintain pickup proportions and keep a useable bed length, the JK pickup did have an extended rear overhang and like the Gladiator, this concept had the spare tire mounted to the side of the bed.
We have been asking for a truck like this for years and are extremely excited that Jeep is still mulling over such a vehicle. We contacted Jeep today, but they offered no comment, saying that they don't discuss anything that may or may not have been discussed at an internal business meeting.
Production could start as soon as late next year, with an on-sale date target of January or February 2012 - if the project is green lighted.
Tech Editor - Four Wheeler Magazine