In this week’s Ask Nathan:
- Is Jeep in big trouble.
- Why is the Mercedes-Benz plant so important?
The first question is from a fan who feels like Jeep is in big trouble.
Q: I think Jeep is in big trouble and things are getting worse!
I think Jeep is on life support. Stellantis is responsible for massive recalls, fire risks, tons of financial pressure, huge strategic missteps and supplier disputes that shut down factories. Oh the EV Jeep plan is a total failure so far. It’s a terrible start to 2026. Then the embarrassing Jeep Cherokee came out. It’s a RAV4 with a nicer interior! They have totally lost their way and things are looking bad! As a Jeep owner and fan, I am worried.
Nathan, do you think this EJS was a poor showing? The one thing Stellantis needs to stay relevant is a strong Jeep brand. I see them forgetting how important Jeep is. This makes me miss Fiat, to be honest.
Is there hope for better Jeeps in the future?
— Myron TT
A: Howdy!
After the past few years, I can see how some people fear for Jeep’s long-term survival. Yes, we have seen a lot of issues pop up recently, and their newest product is iffy – at best. Hopefully the new Jeep Cherokee concept the boys spotlighted at the 2026 Easter Jeep Safari might be a sweet solution. IF it makes it into production.
Here’s the thing: I am a bit disappointed with some of Stellantis’ offering as of late. They opted to simplify things with a new UX, which isn’t great. Rumor has it: they are working on a better UX. Their new Cherokee didn’t do well with Tommy and Roman, but there is some hope that a more off-road-capable version is coming.
Additionally, Jeep is rumored to be moving in a positive direction with new(ish) management. If you include new competitors in a segment we never expected (Hyundai) they may be forced to up their game further.
My biggest issue remains pricing: it’s just too expensive for regular Americans to but just about any Jeep.
That’s a shame.
— N
The last question is actually a statement from a subscriber who saw my video and gave me a correction to my initial statement.
Q: Via Facebook: Why is the Mercedes-Benz plant a big deal?
And you said every Mercedes-Benz on the road in the USA but you forgot about the GLC!
Get it right Nathan!
A: Hi there.
Well, there’s two parts to this answer.
Yup, you caught me. I was mistaken when I omitted the GLC; however, the Tuscaloosa, Alabama Mercedes-Benz plant has just announced that they WILL build the GLC for the U.S. market – soon. In addition, the plant just hit a massive milestone: 5-million SUV/Crossovers built. Not only is that a heck of an achievement, it shows the world that solid workmanship can be sourced here as well. Most G-series SUVs that have been delivered around the world were built in this plant.
Plus, they used that occasion to announce a significant revised GLE, GLS and more.
– N
