Why Jeeps may be the perfect COVID-19 escape vehicle

Like countless other sectors, the auto industry has felt the COVID-19 pain, both from the consumer demand side in terms of purchasing behavior, but also from the manufacturing side - which particularly came to a standstill during the peak of the epidemic. 

However, according to the YouGov Brand Index, which tracks thousands of brands every day, it seems that that one brand that has displayed an opposite trend in consumer behavior is, that’s right you guessed it, the JEEP!

Right now, just over 16 percent of US adults say that when they are in the market to purchase a car or truck, they would consider buying a Jeep. This figure, however, has now increased by 6.5 percent in recent months. So the real question is, why? 

It may be too early to tell, but there are a number of factors at play that may account for this slight surge in demand. Whether it's their adventurous nature, their reliability, or their beloved vehicle status across America, it seems the Jeep has a timeless appeal, even in moments of uncertainty. Here at Bulldawg, we could hazard a few guesses as to why...

Jeeps are adventurous 

Jeeps are synonymous with adventure! 

One of the best things about owning a Jeep is having the ability to travel and explore wherever you want. Although, while COVID-19 restrictions may have put a halt on many overseas adventures for many, those Jeep owners have still been able to get some form of excitement from their various wrangler models - particularly if they possess an Overlanding Jeep Wrangler. 

Overlanding is one of the more extreme versions of off-road travel. Overlanding is sometimes compared to backpacking, except you are doing it in style with a Jeep. Overlanding, simply is exploration. All Jeep owners need to do when they possess one is pack a tent, survival gear (food, blankets and what not) and set out on an off-road journey. With these types of vehicles, your home is where your jeep is. 

Many individuals have been yearning for the opportunity to get out and escape their four walls throughout the duration of 2020, and Jeep Wranglers allow you to do just that (even whilst conforming to social distancing measures). The overlanding hardtops can sufficiently house a tent to place on the roof of your jeep securely and safely. The hardtop will also support your weight and help you stay elevated for a fantastic overnight stay. You can go down the road from your home and feel like you’re on an adventure, kinda making them the ideal COVID escapism? 

You don’t need to be on a tropical island or on the other side of the world, you can simply take your Jeep Wrangler and leave your home for an exhilarating change of scenery! 

Long-standing History in American Soil

The Jeep itself has also forged its way into American history for some time. Drafted as a key supply unit for our military efforts in World War II, there are few vehicles that have such a direct line and heritage as the Jeep Wrangler. 

As a direct descent of the 1940 Willys quad prototype vehicle that was commissioned by the United States Army, this relatively inexpensive (for the most part) and extremely reliable vehicle is the quintessential depiction of all American vehicles. It has continued to adapt and modify itself to stay current in a very overcrowded market, which may account for the brand's steady incline in popularity over the past four years. YouGov Ratings shows Jeep fans describe the brand as good quality, practical, good value for money, classic and well-made. The Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, and Cherokee are all in the top 10 most popular vehicles in the US. 

This reliability and quality, paired with its great value for money may be a particularly attractive attribute in these unprecedented times. With gas prices sliding further as we enter into a recession, SUVS, and more importantly, Jeeps, maybe an extremely favorable car for many consumers during the pandemic. 

Indeed, that’s the beauty of the Jeep Wrangler - it’s not like other cars. The brand’s devotion to usability and utility feels as much like they’re fulfilling a military contract as providing for consumer needs. 

I guess only time can tell about WHY we may be seeing this influx. But there’s no denying the popularity of these vehicles in the US, which only seems to be on the rise year on year - and we don’t blame them!