Jeep Cherokee now on sale – UK Jeep sales set to double

The new Jeep Cherokee (above) is now on sale in the UK Jeep may have the sort of SUV, off-road credibility as Land Rover, but they’ve failed miserably to make the most of that in recent years, particularly on this side of the Pond. But things are changing for Jeep, and the arrival of the new Jeep Cherokee – with it’s contentious, but individual, looks – promises to give Jeep a real shot in the arm in its quest to rebuild sales in the UK. With a choice of two diesel engines – 140 hp and 170 hp versions of the 2.0 litre diesel – a choice of four trim levels - Longitude, Longitude+, Limited and Trailhawk – and a 3.2 litre petrol engine for the hardcore Trailhawk version (available from the end of 2014), Jeep has a strong offering.

BMW will build electric cars in Leipzig

BMW AG will produce its electric-car range at its plant in Leipzig, Germany, the automaker said on Monday. In addition, BMW factories in Wackersdorf and Landshut, Germany, will produce parts for the so-called Megacity Vehicle. “The BMW Group will build the car of the future in Leipzig with high-tech innovations from Bavaria,” BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer said in a statement.

AutoWeek's Keith Crain receives Mercedes Star Driver award

AutoWeek editor-in-chief Keith Crain recently received the Star Driver award from Mercedes-Benz, an honor that recognizes an individual who has made great contributions to motorsports and the automobile industry. Crain, shown at left with Geoff Day, director of communications at Mercedes-Benz USA, is the sixth recipient of the Star Driver honor. He joins the ranks of Sir Stirling Moss, John Fitch, Jochen Mass, Jesse Alexander and AutoWeek senior contributing editor Denise McCluggage.