Definitely one for the off-road purist, the new Willys Wheeler Edition of the Wrangler is a throwback to the original Jeep of the 1940s and all of its rugged utilitarian charm.
Although it is based on the existing Wrangler Sport model and comes fitted with the now familiar Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 engine (285hp and 260 ft.-lbs.of torque), underneath is some seriously hardwearing and robust kit:
- A Dana 44 rear axle
- Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential
- 3.73 gears
- rock rails for undercarriage protection
And making sure that even the biggest boulder isn't an obstacle to progress, the vehicle has a better low range gear ratio (2.72:1) and the 17-inch wheels are wrapped in Goodrich KM Mud Terrain LT255/75R17 tires for extra traction no matter how slippery or uneven the terrain ahead.
Exterior design nods to the original Willys Jeep include a black soft-top roof, black gloss-painted radiator grille and bumpers, and retro '4 Wheel Drive' and ‘Willys' badges.
Inside, there are one or two creature comforts such as smartphone connectivity and satellite radio. An electronic tire pressure monitor is also available as a cost option, as are retro half doors.
The Jeep can be specified in any current Wrangler color, but looks best in military green or gunmetal grey and will make its official debut later this week at the LA Auto Show before going on sale in early 2014, priced at $25,795 for two-door models and $29,595 for Unlimited (four-door) models.
