At JIA we specialise in extending the life of iconic Classic vehicles by not just original restoration but also selective modernisation by redesigning key elements and replacing old fashioned parts with modern equivalents. This usually entails extensive work under the skin whilst retaining the spirit and feel of the original and the Chieftain is no exception, where we have delivered a modern car feel (including enhanced mileage and emissions) coupled with improved performance, ride and handling whilst retaining all the original’s aesthetic.
Launch of the “car for all reasons” with emphasis on off road ability. A utility vehicle with easy clean PVC interior & spartan rubber floor mats, the Range Rover rapidly gained an enviable reputation as a desirable car… and a less enviable reputation amongst motion sensitive passengers.
Four doors & a shift towards better on-road handling meant that, by the end of the 1980’s, the Range Rover had become de rigueur transport for those city families who could afford its thirst. Performance remained pedestrian and the 20 year old chassis design was reaching the limits of its development.
Now primarily a luxury road car brand, few Range Rovers ever saw serious off-road action and the road manners, interior ergonomics and equipment had become anachronistic. Introduction of the revised “Soft Dash” interior did much for the ergonomics and equipment but the world had moved on, and soon the Range Rover Classic would be discontinued.
Building on the iconic styling and the ergonomic improvements of the last of the breed, JIA evolve the chassis and powertrain to the next level for a rewarding driving experience like no other Range Rover Classic. Configure your bespoke Chieftain on-line now to commission the ultimate Retro-Modern SUV.