As the traditional three-box sedans begin a slow ride into the sunset, SUVs are gradually taking their space. It may not just be a situation of the SUVs taking over, but it could be a clear signal that some past models are likely to make a dramatic comeback.

One such vehicle that Car and Driver believes may make a big comeback as early as 2020 is the GMC Jimmy. It could be the company’s answer to the growing popularity of the Jeep Wrangler and the upcoming Ford Bronco.

The Jimmy SUV

All indications point to the fact that a resurrected GMC Jimmy would take the form of SUV and would be the answer to the insanely popular Jeep Wrangler. It looks like GMC wants to tap into the growing section of car owners with a surging appetite for off-road machines but who may still want to zoom them along the streets.

The Jimmy SUV would suit this category since it’s built on a solid truck frame, hence, the ability to maneuver both suburban jungles and the actual jungles themselves. However, don’t expect the giant automaker to get too creative with the Jimmy. This because it’s bound to enter the market with a tentative price tag of below $35,000.

Starting price

Set to hit the market within the next few years, the resurgent Jimmy will have its price tag starting from $30,000. This price is likely to appeal to jeep lovers operating on a tight budget, but who also dream to have a share of both worlds: the SUV and an off-roader.

Consequently, buyers may have to dig deeper into their pockets for the aftermarket if they wish to make some additions or alterations to this model. The average user should be contented with its stock features.

Expectations

The revived GMC Jimmy is expected to ride on the company’s mid-size truck underpinnings, just like its other counterpart, the GMC Canyon pickup. Considering the minimal starting price, this vehicle won’t feature an ambitious powertrain.

A 3.6-liter V-6 engine common in pickup hoods, and possibly a 2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel four-cylinder for off-roading are likely to be the main highlights of the Jimmy.

It’s not surprising that the new SUV will feature the recently introduced AT4 badge, which GM has already slapped on the Sierra HD and Sierra 1500, as well as the Acadia models. This badge is also likely to feature on the Canyon, which will act as a fallback plan should the Jimmy fail to make the cut.

Nevertheless, GM has been up to interesting stuff lately. The automaker was recently spotted on a benchmarking mission on a Jeep Wrangler at its Milford Proving Ground in Michigan. The Wrangler in question apparently features a host of sensors and other data collecting equipment. It could be an indication that GM is working to improve the overall driving dynamics of the body-on-frame off-roader.

So, exactly when can we see the revamped GMC Jimmy SUV? The SUV off-roader is likely to hog the roads and the rough terrain in the next three years, so be sure to keep an eye out for test mules. Although, you had better spare at least $30,000 in your bank account to be in pole position to give it a test drive as soon as it hits the showrooms.

Growing list

The list of SUVs expected to make a comeback in the near future continues to grow. Apart from the GMC Jimmy, a new Ford Bronco is also expected to stage a dramatic return. We can only hope that the revamped models will be more affordable and better suit the ever-changing needs of car owners.