Camp Jeep adventure

Gareth Herincx July 16, 2015 Auto News

Jeep owners and fans flocked to France for fun and off-road adventure at Camp Jeep 2015.

The Jeep Jamboree took place at Montalieu-Vercieu, which is situated in stunning countryside less than an hour from Lyon in south-eastern France.

Staged between July 10-12, it was an international meeting organised by the Jeep Owners Group (JOG) – the only official club – and now almost 30,000-strong.

For me, it was an introduction to Jeep – and its unique spirit. It was also the first chance I’ve had to drive Jeep’s four maintstays – the new Renegade, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler – “a symbol of freedom for over 70 years”, according to the literature.

I spotted Jeep owners from some 17 countries, including Germany, Switzerland, Italy and Spain – and Camp Jeep is where they come to share their passion for the brand.

Camp Jeep offers owners and fans of the legendary seven slot grille brand opportunities to test the off-road performance of their 4x4s on a challenging off-road course which consisted of four routes with varying difficulty levels.

First I drove the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon – capable of tackling the most extreme and challenging off-road terrains. With the little help from a friendly instructor I managed with ease. The Rubicon flattered. Powered by a 3.6-litre V6, it’s tough and incredibly capable off-road. In short, a hugely impressive 4×4.

Next up was the new “baby” Jeep – the Renegade. It may be built in Italy, but there’s some serious Jeep DNA in there, and it managed admirably in top-of-the-range Trailhawk guise.

The Cherokee and Grand Cherokee may look shiny and streamlined, but they’re accomplished 4x4s too.

The Jeep spirit isn’t only confined to off-road driving – participants were also able to enjoy live entertainment shows, take part in watersports, camp and BBQ, while activities were laid on for the kids.

Steve Zanlunghi, managing director, FCA UK and head of Jeep brand for the EMEA region says Camp Jeep is a “playground for Jeep owners”

“It puts Jeep owners in an environment where they can experience the maximum capabilities of their vehicles,” he added.

For Steve, Jeep is all about “freedom, authenticity, passion and adventure”.

Keep an eye open for the date and venue for next year’s Camp Jeep, which promises to be extra special because 2016 will mark the 75th anniversary of the iconic off-roading brand.