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Battle Born
The Jeep brand built its reputation producing vehicles with legendary off-road capability in the tradition of World War II U.S. military vehicles from which the Jeep name originated. Today the Jeep Wrangler is the closest descendant of the original Willys, while the full Jeep lineup has expanded to a broad spectrum of vehicles from the compact Renegade to the luxurious full-size Grand Wagoneer as well as the Gladiator pickup truck. From World War II to the Rubicon Trail, let’s look at the storied history of the Jeep brand and the evolution of Jeep vehicles through the years.
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War Effort
In 1940 the U.S. military was looking for a “light reconnaissance vehicle” to replace motorcycles and modified Model-T Ford vehicles. The list of specifications included 4-wheel drive, a 2-speed transfer case, a short wheelbase and light weight. Willys-Overland, American Bantam Car Manufacturing Company and Ford Motor Company all responded by producing prototype vehicles. The Willys prototype was the Quad, Bantam produced the Blitz Buggy and Ford produced the Model GP, also known as the Pygmy.
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Dawn of the Jeep
All three companies were contracted to produce 70 vehicles each, followed by an additional 1,500 that were updated to meet revised specifications. Ultimately Willys was chosen as the primary manufacturer, and the Willys Quad became the MA followed by the MB, incorporating elements from both the Ford and Bantam vehicles. It’s unclear exactly how the vehicle became known as the Jeep, but it may have been either the abbreviated pronunciation of “GP,” the military label for “General Purpose,” or from the character “Eugene the Jeep” in the Popeye cartoon. Either way, the Jeep name stuck.
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Contract Vehicle
Willys struggled to meet the Army minimum weight specification of 2,160 pounds, and many items were removed from the Willys MA, which was a minimalist vehicle with the gearshift on the steering column, low side body cutouts, two round instrument clusters and a hand brake on the left side. Additional equipment was added to second-generation MB, resulting in a weight increase of approximately 400 pounds. Willys-Overland built more than 368,000 vehicles for the U.S. Army, and under license Ford built an additional 277,000 vehicles.
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Jeep CJ-2A: 1945–1949
After the war ended, Willys trademarked the name and began selling Jeeps to civilians. The first model sold in 1945 was the Willys CJ-2A, which was marketed as both a vehicle and as a mobile generator that could power farm implements and industrial tools when equipped with a power take-off unit. The CJ-2A had more equipment than the previous military models, including a tailgate, side-mounted spare tire, larger headlights and an external fuel cap. The CJ-2A is powered by a 134-cubic-inch 4-cylinder engine with a T-90A transmission, Spicer 18 transfer case and Dana full-floating front and rear axles. The CJ-3A sold from 1949-53 is very similar to the CJ-2A, with the addition of a one-piece windshield with a bottom vent, dual bottom-mounted wipers and a few mechanical updates.
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Willys Station Wagon: 1946–1965
The 1946 Willys Station Wagon was the first all-steel station wagon, even though it was painted to look like a woody. It has a unique fold-down tailgate, and while most station wagons of the time could carry a 4×8 sheet of plywood horizontally, the Willys Wagon could carry it vertically as well. Four-wheel drive was added in 1949.
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Willys-Overland Truck: 1947–1965
The 1947 Jeep Truck was the first attempt by Willys-Overland to market the Jeep brand beyond the flat-fendered, short-wheelbase CJ. The Jeep Truck has a 118-inch wheelbase and was offered as a pickup, stake bed, cab and chassis, or as a bare chassis. Two-wheel drive and 4-wheel drive were offered, and powerplant choices included the Go Devil engine, the 72-horsepower Super Hurricane and the Tornado. The Jeep Truck had minor sheet metal changes until the mid-1960s.
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Jeep Jeepster: 1948–1951
Willys-Overland designer Brooks Stevens created the Jeep Jeepster as an open-top phaeton-style vehicle with side curtains for weather protection, rather than roll-up windows. Intended to be a low-priced sports car, the Jeepster was very expensive when it went on sale and performance was lackluster for a sports car. The Jeepster was first offered with the Go Devil engine and later the 6-cylinder Hurricane engine, although it was never offered with 4-wheel drive.
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Jeep CJ-3B: 1953–1968
The Jeep CJ received extensive updates for 1953 as the CJ-3B, with a taller hood and grille to fit a larger Hurricane engine that produced 25 percent more horsepower than the previous engine. Production of the CJ-3B lasted for 15 years with more than 155,000 sold. In 1953 Henry J. Kaiser purchased Willys-Overland for $60 million, and the Kaiser Company began research and development to expand the Jeep product range.
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Jeep CJ-5: 1955–1983
Kaiser introduced the Jeep CJ-5 in 1955, which is slightly larger than the CJ-3B with a longer wheelbase and overall length. Based on the Korean War M-38A-1 military vehicle, the CJ-5 has softer body lines and more rounded fenders. As interest in off-road vehicles grew, the CJ-5 improved in almost every way including engines, transmissions, axles and seating comfort. In 1965 a new V6 engine produced 155 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque — nearly twice the power of the standard 4-cylinder engine. American Motors Corporation purchased Kaiser Jeep in 1970; beginning in 1973 all CJ-5s were powered by either a 304- or 360-cubic-inch V8 engine. More than 600,000 CJ-5s were produced over nearly 30 years.
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Jeep CJ-6: 1956–1975
For owners who wanted additional room, the Jeep CJ-6 arrived for 1956. Virtually identical in mechanicals with the CJ-5, the CJ-6 rides on a 20-inch-longer wheelbase. The CJ-6 received the same engine upgrades in 1965 and 1973 as the CJ-5. The CJ-7 replaced the CJ-6 in 1976.
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Jeep Wagoneer: 1963–1983
In 1962 Jeep introduced the 1963 Wagoneer, the first luxury 4-wheel-drive SUV — also designed by Brooks Stevens. The Wagoneer combines passenger car styling and comfort with 4-wheel-drive capability; it was the first 4-wheel-drive vehicle to offer an automatic transmission and independent front suspension. In 1965 the Super Wagoneer offered many luxury options as standard equipment, a single-speed transfer case and a price nearly double the base Wagoneer. In 1973 the Wagoneer became available with Quadra-Trac 4WD — the first automatic full-time 4WD system. The name was changed to Grand Wagoneer in 1984, when a Wagoneer version of the new Jeep Cherokee hit showrooms.
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Jeep Gladiator/J-Series Pickup: 1963–1987
The Gladiator line of full-size pickups was introduced for 1963 and shares the same platform, front-end styling and powertrain as the Wagoneer. The Gladiator J-200 has a 120-inch wheelbase and the J-300 has a 126-inch wheelbase. The names were changed to Gladiator J-2000 and J-3000 in 1965, but the Gladiator name was dropped in 1971 with the truck line continuing as the J-Series through 1987.
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Jeep Jeepster Commando: 1967–1973
Built on the CJ-6 platform, the Jeep Jeepster Commando is a sportier model designed to appeal as a leisure-time 4-wheel-drive vehicle, offered in four variations: roadster, pickup, convertible and station wagon. The convertible has a classic look from the original Jeepster, with either a manual or power convertible top. The roadster has either a half-length or full-length removable soft-top. The suspension was designed to give the best ride and handling of any Jeep vehicle.
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Jeep Cherokee: 1975–1983
A sportier 2-door version of the Wagoneer, the Jeep Cherokee features bucket seats, a sport steering wheel and sporty trim to appeal to younger, more adventurous buyers. The Cherokee Chief features a Wide-Track option with wider wheels, larger wheel cutouts, fender flares, three-inch wider axles, Dana 44 front and rear axles, an upgraded interior and exterior stripes. A 4-door Cherokee joined the lineup in 1977.
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Jeep CJ-7: 1976–1986
The first major update of the CJ design in 20 years came with the introduction of the CJ-7 for 1976. The CJ-7 has a wheelbase 10 inches longer than the CJ-5, allowing room for an automatic transmission. (Production of the CJ-5 continued until 1983.) The CJ-7 was the first Jeep to offer an optional molded plastic top and steel doors.
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Jeep Scrambler: 1981–1985
A pickup alternative to the CJ-7, the Scrambler is built on a longer 103-inch wheelbase with a longer rear overhang to increase cargo capacity. Known internationally as the CJ-8, the Scrambler is mechanically akin the CJ-7 — although a V8 engine was never available. The open-top pickup was offered with either a soft-top or a hardtop. Only 30,000 Scramblers were built, making it popular among collectors.
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Jeep Cherokee (XJ): 1984–2001
As interest in SUVs continued to grow in America, Jeep debuted the all-new compact Cherokee for the 1984 model year. The 1984 Cherokee has a unibody chassis rather than a traditional body-on-frame design. It is 21 inches shorter, 6 inches narrower, 4 inches lower and 1,000 pounds lighter than the full-size Grand Wagoneer. The XJ features a Quadra-Link coil front suspension and was offered with two different all-wheel-drive systems: the part-time Command-Trac and full-time Selec-Trac. Cherokee was originally offered with either a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder or a 2.8-liter V6 engine until the highly-regarded 4.0-liter inline 6-cylinder arrived for 1987. A new Jeep Wagoneer based on the Cherokee was offered 1984–1990, featuring quad headlights and vinyl woodgrain side trim for the Wagoneer Limited.
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Jeep Grand Wagoneer: 1984–1991
Jeep renamed the Wagoneer to the Grand Wagoneer for the 1984 model year when the Cherokee, formerly a 2-door version of Wagoneer, debuted as a compact SUV with Wagoneer as a trim level. Jeep had produced earlier upscale versions of Wagoneer with Super Wagoneer and Wagoneer Limited, but Grand Wagoneer was in actuality Jeep’s first premium SUV. Grand Wagoneer featured leather upholstery, air-conditioning, an AM / FM / CB stereo radio, additional sound insulation and woodgrain exterior trim. At rollout Grand Wagoneer also featured a 360 cubic-inch V8 engine with increased horsepower, more torque and a higher tow rating than competitors.
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Jeep Comanche (MJ): 1986–1992
A pickup version of the Cherokee, the Jeep Comanche is a unibody vehicle, which was unique for a pickup truck at that time. Comanche is mechanically similar to the Cherokee and was offered as either the short-bed Comanche Sport or the long-bed Comanche Chief. Later models offered the full-time Selec-Trac 4-wheel drive or Command-Trac.
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Jeep Wrangler (YJ): 1987–1996
The Jeep Wrangler replaced the long-running Jeep CJ for 1987, and although it retained a similar profile to its predecessor, the new Wrangler shares few mechanical components with the CJ-7 and has more in common with the new Cherokee. The new design features a wider track, an angled grille and rectangular headlights. On the inside the Wrangler looks more modern and offers additional creature comforts to appeal to a broader audience. More than 600,000 Wranglers were sold. In August 1987 American Motors Corporation was sold to Chrysler Corporation and Jeep became a division of Chrysler.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee: 1993–1998
An all-new midsize SUV for 1993, the Jeep Grand Cherokee set new standards for ride, handling and comfort in an SUV. The first SUV with a driver’s side airbag, the Grand Cherokee features Quadra-Coil suspension, an available 5.2-liter V8 engine and a choice of all-wheel-drive systems. The Jeep Grand Wagoneer — based on the Grand Cherokee — was offered for 1993 only, with all available Grand Cherokee options and vinyl woodgrain side trim. The Orvis special edition was offered 1995-1997 with green paint and gold striping outside and two-tone green and champagne leather inside. Grand Cherokee was updated with over 40 major changes for 1996 and the Grand Cherokee 5.9L Limited was added for 1998.
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Jeep Wrangler (TJ): 1997–2006
Redesigned for 1997 with a retro-look that was closer to the CJ-7 than the previous-generation Wrangler, the new design returned to round headlights and retained a fold-down windshield, removable doors and a choice of a soft-top or a removable hardtop. On-road handling improved via the Quadra-Coil suspension, which replaced standard leaf springs. Off-road capability also improved with more ground clearance and more aggressive approach and departure angles.
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Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
The Wrangler Rubicon was added for 2003 — the best equipped production Jeep for off-road capability up to that time. It has push-button locking front and rear axles, 4:1 low-range Rock-Trac transfer case, 32-inch tires and other options not previously offered on a production Jeep. The Wrangler Unlimited was added for 2004 with a longer wheelbase, 13 inches of additional cargo room and 2 inches of additional rear-seat room.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee: 1999–2004
The first complete redesign for the Grand Cherokee, the 1999 model features better ride and handling, the addition of a 4.7-liter V8 engine and a new Quadra-Drive 4×4 system. While the exterior design remains very similar to the original, there are very few components carried over from the previous model. Inside the ergonomics were improved and the level of luxury is increased to meet the demand for more refinement in luxury SUVs.
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Jeep Liberty: 2002–2007
The Jeep Liberty replaced the Cherokee for the 2002 model year with a new vehicle that incorporated iconic Jeep design elements such as round headlights and 7-slot grille. Liberty features independent front suspension, a 3.7-liter V6 engine, Command-Trac 4-wheel drive and full-time Select-trac standard for Liberty Limited. For the 2005 model year a 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine and a 6-speed manual transmission were offered.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee: 2005–2010
The Grand Cherokee was redesigned for 2005 with a focus on combining power and luxury with a quieter, more refined ride by adding a new short/long-arm front suspension. Three engines were offered, including a 330-horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI and the available full-time Quadra-Drive II 4×4 system featured front and rear limited slip differentials and a center differential lock.
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Jeep Commander: 2006–2010
Based on the same platform as the 2005 Grand Cherokee, the Jeep Commander is a 7-occupant SUV with a three-inch step up in the roof to create room for third-row stadium-style seating. The boxy design features an upright windshield and squared-off sides that look more like the 2008 Liberty; engine and drivetrain choices were shared with the Grand Cherokee.
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Jeep Patriot: 2007–2017
One of Jeep’s two compact crossovers, the Jeep Patriot has more of an upright traditional SUV design, while the original Compass design (see next slide) looks more like a hatchback. The Patriot has a classic Jeep look with round headlights and an upright 7-slot grille. Unlike the traditional Jeep, the Patriot is front-wheel drive with a choice of two all-wheel-drive systems. Freedom Drive I is a full-time system designed for on-road use, and Freedom Drive II is off-road capable. Patriot is powered by a 172-horsepower 2.4-liter engine combined with a CVT. When the current-generation Compass debuted in 2017 Patriot production ceased.
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Jeep Compass: 2007–2016
The other of Jeep’s venture into the compact crossover market, the Compass is front-wheel drive with the choice of two all-wheel drive systems. Freedom Drive I is a full-time system designed for on-road use, and Freedom Drive II is off-road capable. The Compass was redesigned for 2011 and a new design looks a lot like the new Grand Cherokee — a big improvement over the original design, but the drivetrain is still the same with a 172-horsepower 2.4-liter engine combined with a CVT.
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Jeep Wrangler: 2007–2017
With an all-new frame, exterior design, interior, engine and safety equipment, the 2007 Wrangler is larger and more refined but continued as the modern descendant of the original Willy’s Jeep. Signature Jeep elements include round headlights, 7-slot grille, solid axles, removable doors, exposed hinges, a fold-down windshield and removable tops. For 2007 the Wrangler Unlimited adopted a 4-door design with easier access to a roomier 3-passenger rear seat and the most cargo capacity ever in a Wrangler. For 2011 the Wrangler received an all-new interior.
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Jeep Liberty: 2008–2012
Jeep Liberty was redesigned for 2008 with a sharper-edged, more rugged design to replace the more rounded first-generation look. To improve both on-road handling and off-road capability, new independent front and 5-link rear suspension were added with an available new Selec-Trac II full-time 4×4 system. Inside passenger room, cargo capacity and seats were improved and a Sky Slider Roof was offered.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee: 2011–2021
Finishing an 11-year run, the current Grand Cherokee was the best-selling Jeep model for both 2019 and 2020. When it debuted for 2011, the Grand Cherokee made big strides with a refined design, a luxurious interior, better on-road handling and increased off-road capability with a choice of three 4 × 4 systems, a new Jeep Selec-Terrain traction management system and a new Jeep Quadra-Lift air suspension. Jeep updated the SUV for 2014 with a shorter grille, revised lights, a larger spoiler to improve aerodynamics and a new tailgate to aid rear visibility. For 2017 the luxurious Grand Cherokee Summit joined the lineup in addition to the Trailhawk — the most off-road-capable Grand Cherokee ever. The next generation of Grand Cherokee arrives this spring with the all-new three-row 2021 Grand Cherokee L.
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Jeep Cherokee: 2014–2018
The Jeep Cherokee returned for 2014 as an all-new compact SUV to replace the Liberty in the Jeep lineup. The new Cherokee features a modern, aerodynamic design and is powered by a new 3.2-liter Pentastar V6 engine or a 2.4-liter Tigershark MultiAir 2 engine, both combined with a standard 9-speed automatic transmission. Legendary Jeep off-road capability is delivered with the Cherokee Trailhawk, which includes lifted off-road suspension with skidplates, tow hooks, Selec-Terrain traction control, Jeep Active Drive Lock with rear locker, Selec-Speed Crawl Control with 56:1 crawl ratio and aggressive approach, departure and break-over angles.
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Jeep Renegade: 2015–present
Jeep joined the growing subcompact crossover segment with the 2015 Renegade, a small fuel-efficient model that also offers available Jeep off-road capability. The Renegade Sport and Latitude are both powered by a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine producing 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission. A 1.3-liter turbocharged engine producing 177 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque at 1750 rpm is standard for Renegade Limited and Trailhawk, and optional for Sport and Latitude. The Renegade Trailhawk offers Jeep off-road capability with Active Drive Low 4 × 4 system with 20:1 crawl ratio; Selec-Terrain system with five modes, including Rock mode; off-road suspension with 0.8-inch lift; hill descent control; 17-inch off-road aluminum wheels and aggressive tires; and red two hooks, skidplates, off-road fascias, black accent roof and roof rails.
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Jeep Compass: 2017–present
Jeep introduced an all-new Compass for the 2017 model year that is a much better fit with the lineup than the previous generation. Taking full advantage of the enduring success of the Grand Cherokee, the redesigned Compass has obvious influences from its older sibling, looking very much like a baby Grand Cherokee. Compass is offered in four trim levels for the U.S. market: Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk. A 2.4-liter Tigershark engine producing 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque powers the Compass, delivering decent performance and impressive fuel economy. The Jeep Compass Trailhawk offers proper off-road capability with Active Drive Low, Selec-Terrain with Rock mode, increased ride height, skidplates, red tow hooks, unique fascias for increased approach and departure angles, hill-descent control and 17-inch off-road tires.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk: 2018–present
The Grand Cherokee is well known for mastering practically any terrain, and with the introduction of the Trackhawk, the racetrack gets added to that mastery list. This Trackhawk has a powerplant from the Hellcat series: a 6.2-liter supercharged HEMI V8 that produces a staggering 707 horsepower. This special Grand Cherokee can reach 60 mph in 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 180 mph. But it is still a Grand Cherokee, which means there’s more than 8 inches of ground clearance, full-time all-wheel drive with snow setting and the ability to tow more than 7,000 pounds. This is also the first production Jeep that can exceed $100,000 — depending on options.
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Jeep Wrangler (JL): 2018–present
An all-new Wrangler premiered for the 2018 model year — the first redesign of this iconic off-roader in 10 years. Jeep stayed true to the original, retaining the 7-slot grille and round headlights, although the grille is taller and wider and the headlights have a stylish LED halo around the outer bezel. Available in multiple trims, Wrangler comes with two or four doors and a removable soft-top or hardtop. The new Wrangler is much more comfortable on pavement than its predecessor while retaining legendary off-road capability. The 2018 Wrangler launched with a 285-horsepower Pentastar V6, a new turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with eTorque technology producing 270 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, as well as a new 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel producing 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque.
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Jeep Wrangler High Altitude
For 2020 Jeep added the new top-of-the-line Wrangler High Altitude with luxury materials, premium content and new technology including Nappa leather seats; a leather-trimmed dashboard, center console and door panels; and an 8.4-inch touchscreen with Alpine premium audio.
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Jeep Cherokee: 2019–present
For 2019 the iconic Cherokee received a complete refresh — the first since the model returned to the Jeep lineup in 2014. The new design brings the exterior styling of Cherokee more in line with the traditional look of other Jeep models thanks to larger headlights, a new fascia and an updated 7-slot grille. Inside, the new Jeep Cherokee builds on the previous model with subtle changes to lines and contours, with more premium materials improving quality and comfort. Three powertrains are offered, including a direct-injection turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque with engine start-stop technology. Jeep offers a selection of enhanced 4WD systems as well as a Selec-Terrain traction control system, making it one of the most capable midsize SUVs available.
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Jeep Gladiator: 2020–present
After years of rumors about a Wrangler pickup, Jeep’s Gladiator pickup arrived last year. Even though it shares the looks of the Wrangler four door, Gladiator is more than a Wrangler with a pickup bed. The new truck retains attributes and standout features of Wrangler, including off-road capability, open-top driving, and even the removable doors and folding windshield, but it is also a proper truck with the utility and equipment to match or exceed other midsize trucks. Gladiator has a 285-horsepower V6 engine combined with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission, and is offered in five trim levels: Sport, Overland, Mojave, Rubicon and High Altitude. For 2021 Jeep added the Gladiator EcoDiesel — a 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine producing 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque.
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Jeep Gladiator Mojave: 2020–present
Gladiator Mojave is designed and equipped for high-speed, off-road capability and performance in tough desert conditions. The Gladiator Mojave uses Jeep’s proven Command-Trac 4-wheel-drive system with a 2-speed transfer case, a low-range gear ratio, heavy-duty Dana 44 front and rear axles, and an electronic locking rear differential. The Mojave design achieves higher speeds while in low range to keep momentum while attacking sand dunes and other desert challenges. With 11.6 inches of ground clearance, the Gladiator Mojave possesses the capability to tackle nearly any obstacle. The Mojave also gets high-performance FOX 2.5-inch internal bypass shocks, a front skidplate and 33-inch Falken Wildpeak All-terrain tires which add to the pickup’s overall capability.
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Jeep Grand Wagoneer Concept
In September 2020 Jeep announced the return of the Grand Wagoneer via the debut of the Grand Wagoneer Concept. Jeep introduced the Wagoneer in 1961 and the Grand Wagoneer in 1984 — Jeep’s first premium SUV. Inspired by the original, the Grand Wagoneer Concept has traditional boxy SUV styling with distinctly modern details such as a stylized 7-slot grille with integrated LED lighting. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer Concept takes Jeep luxury to a new level by incorporating sustainable materials such as PUR, a synthetic leatherlike material used to trim the seats, doors, instrument panel and center console. Jeep describes the Grand Wagoneer Concept as a plug-in hybrid, although powertrain details are not available.
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2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
Also in September 2020 Jeep announced a new plug-in hybrid Wrangler 4xe with electric-only operation — including while off-road — with the same off-pavement capabilities as its non-electric siblings. Wrangler 4xe is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder gas engine and two electric motors for a total output of 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Wrangler 4xe EPA fuel-economy ratings have not been released, although Jeep estimates 50 MPGe in electric mode and an electric-only range of about 25 miles. All high-voltage electronics that connect the battery to the powertrain are sealed and waterproof, ensuring that Wrangler can still navigate up to 30 inches of water without any danger of a short circuit.
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2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392
In November 2020 Jeep announced the 2021 Wrangler Rubicon 392 — the first Wrangler powered by a V8 since 1981. In the ‘80s Wrangler’s 5.0-liter V8 produced a mere 125 horsepower. Fast-forward 40 years and Wrangler Rubicon 392 gets a 6.4-liter 392-cubic-inch V8 producing 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. According to Jeep, Rubicon 392 can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and complete the quarter mile in 13 seconds. Rubicon 392 is lifted one inch higher than the standard Rubicon and features 17-inch bronze wheels with a beadlock option and 33-inch off-road tires. Jeep’s Selec-Trac four-wheel-drive system is standard and heavy-duty front and rear Dana 44 axles with electronic locking differentials add to the impressive capability.
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2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
The best-selling model in the Jeep lineup, Jeep debuted the next-generation Grand Cherokee with the 2021 Grand Cherokee L, the first time Grand Cherokee has been offered with seating for seven. Styling for the Grand Cherokee L is similar to the Grand Wagoneer Concept with slim LED headlights, a smaller forward-leaning 7-slot grille, a roof that tapers to the rear spoiler and slim wraparound taillights. Grand Cherokee L is 15 inches longer than the previous generation Grand Cherokee, and the wheelbase increases by 7 inches to offer third-row seating. Initial engine choices are a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 producing 290 horsepower and 257 lb-ft of torque, or a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 producing 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. For the first time ever, the Grand Cherokee features front-axle disconnect to reduce drag on the system when four-wheel drive is unneeded.
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Wagoneer Brand
Wagoneer returns for 2022, expanding on the Jeep brand for Stellantis — the parent company recently formed by the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and Groupe PSA. Although Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will not be marketed as Jeep models, Stellantis describes Wagoneer as “a premium extension of the Jeep brand.” Grand Wagoneer takes luxury and refinement to an even higher level with unique styling, premium materials and exclusive features. The 2022 Wagoneer will be available in both 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive, while Grand Wagoneer will be exclusively 4-wheel drive.
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2022 Wagoneer
The production version of Wagoneer / Grand Wagoneer closely follows the design of the Grand Wagoneer Concept. Wagoneer is offered in three trim levels: Series I, Series II and Series III. All versions are powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 392 horsepower and 404 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 48-volt mild hybrid eTorque system and an 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission. Available all-wheel-drive systems are Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II and Quadra-Drive II. Inside, Wagoneer features a 10.25-inch frameless digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch center display featuring the all-new Uconnect 5 infotainment system with an Android operating system, as well as a reconfigurable touchscreen with split-screen capability.
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2022 Grand Wagoneer
The Grand Wagoneer has paint-over-chrome laser-etched grille rings, “Grand Wagoneer” lettering on the top edge of the grille rather than the hood, a black roof and chrome window surrounds. At the rear, Liquid Chrome trim gets added around the taillights, along with a black textured finish between the lights. The 2022 Grand Wagoneer is offered in four trim levels: Series I, Series II, Obsidian and Series III. Grand Wagoneer is powered by a 6.4-liter V8 engine producing 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque, combined with an 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission. Inside, Grand Wagoneer adds a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 12-inch center touchscreen, along with a 10.25-inch comfort display touchscreen below and a 10.25-inch comfort display touchscreen for the second row. An available 10.25-inch passenger display gives the passenger control with four major functions: Co-Pilot (navigation, device management), entertainment, Fire TV for Auto and view the exterior vehicle cameras.
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2022 Jeep Compass
At the 2021 Chicago Auto Show in July, Jeep revealed the 2022 Compass with a refined exterior design, a modern interior, new technology and semi-autonomous driving. The interior design features a high center console, a wrapped middle pad on the dash, double the storage, a new 10.1-inch Uconnect 5 center-stack display, an available 10.25-inch frameless full-color thin-film transistor digital cluster, and available heated rear seats. Two Jeep 4WD systems and the Select-Terrain traction management system offer traditional Jeep off-road capability. The 2022 Jeep Compass is offered in five trim levels: Sport, Latitude, Latitude LUX, Limited and Trailhawk.
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Wrangler Xtreme Recon Package
At the 2021 Chicago Auto Show Jeep also revealed the new Xtreme Recon Package for Wrangler — an off-road package that includes 35-inch tires for the first time ever from the factory. Priced at $3,995, the Jeep Wrangler Xtreme Recon Package is available on either the Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited 3.6-liter V6 eTorque, or the Wrangler Rubicon 392. The package includes 35-inch LT315/70R17C BF Goodrich KO2 all-terrain tires, 17-inch by 8-inch beadlock-capable wheels, swing gate reinforcement, a 4.56:1 axle ratio and 1.5-inch factory suspension lift with unique shock tuning. When equipped with the Xtreme Recon Package, Wrangler off-road specs improve to a 47.4-degree approach angle, a 26.7-degree breakover angle, a 40.4-degree departure angle, 12.9 inches of ground clearance and 33.6 inches of water fording.
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2022 Grand Cherokee
In September Jeep revealed the fifth-generation 5-seat 2022 Grand Cherokee including the Grand Cherokee 4xe, the second plug-in hybrid following the Wrangler 4xe. The exterior design of the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is no surprise since the Grand Cherokee L debuted last January, but the Grand Cherokee does have a different roofline and profile, sitting on a 5-inch-shorter wheelbase with the overall length 11.4 inches less than Grand Cherokee L. Like the L, the Grand Cherokee roofline is lower and tapered, while the beltline is also lower and a gloss black roof is offered for upper trim levels. The interior is the same as the L, although Grand Cherokee adds an available 10.25-inch front passenger interactive display. The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be offered in seven trim levels: Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Overland, Trailhawk, Summit and Summit Reserve with the standard Pentastar V6 engine. A 5.7-liter V8 engine is available on Overland, Trailhawk, Summit and Summit Reserve.
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2022 Grand Cherokee 4xe
The 2022 Grand Cherokee adds a 4xe plug-in hybrid version combining two electric motors, a 400-volt battery pack, a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, a TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission, and a Quadra Trac II 4WD system with a 2-speed transfer case. Total combined output for Grand Cherokee 4xe is 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, and the estimated all-electric range is expected to be 25 miles. The Grand Cherokee 4xe will also have a fuel economy rating of 57 MPGe and a total range of 440 miles. Grand Cherokee 4xe is rated to tow up to 6,000 pounds. The Grand Cherokee 4xe is offered in Limited, Overland, Trailhawk, Summit and Summit Reserve.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe 30th Anniversary
To celebrate 30 years of the iconic Grand Cherokee, Jeep created a special edition of the plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee that combines electrification with legendary 4-wheel-drive capability. The 2023 Grand Cherokee 4xe is rated at 56 MPGe, with all-electric range of 25 miles from a hybrid system that produces 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The Grand Cherokee 4xe 30th Anniversary edition can be identified by a unique blacked-out exterior treatment with a modified front fascia, signature blue tow hooks, dual exhaust, a dual-pane sunroof, new 20-inch black wheels and special-edition badges. The rear fascia is body color as well as the lower moldings, sill cladding and wheel flares. Inside, the Grand Cherokee 4xe 30th Anniversary features black Capri leather seats, ventilated front seats, a wireless charging pad, a nine-speaker Alpine audio system, a 10.1-inch touchscreen with Uconnect 5, navigation with 3D graphics, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
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2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe
For 2023 Jeep adds the Wrangler Willys 4xe, combining the heritage and vintage look of the Wrangler Willys with the modern technology of the 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain. Powered by the same hybrid system in the Grand Cherokee 4xe producing 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, the Wrangler Willys 4xe is rated at 49 MPGe with an all-electric range of 21 miles. The Wrangler Willys 4xe is easily identified by its Willys decal on the hood trimmed in 4xe’s signature Electric Blue, and an Electric 4-Wheel Drive badge on the rear swing gate. The front and rear tow hooks are Electric Blue, and the Jeep and Trail Rated badges also have blue accents. Standard equipment includes factory suspension lift that provides 10.1 inches of ground clearance, as well as a 2.72:1 Selec-Trac full-time 4WD system, heavy-duty Dana 44 axles and LT255/75R17C mud-terrain tires.
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2023 Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L
For 2023 Stellantis adds Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L — extended-length version of models introduced in 2022 that feature two new powerful twin-turbocharged inline 6-cylinder Hurricane engines. The 2023 Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L are 12 inches longer overall than the standard models. The additional length creates 44.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity behind the third row — 15.8 cubic feet more than the standard-wheelbase variant. Wagoneer L is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder Hurricane engine producing 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm. The Grand Wagoneer L is powered by the Hurricane 510 producing 510 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque at 3500 rpm. Engineers estimate both engines will achieve a 1-2 mpg improvement for the U.S. EPA combined fuel-economy rating compared to the V8 engines they replace.
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Jeep Recon
In September 2022, Jeep announced more about its future plans for electrification, including two new all-electric models for the U.S. market. Jeep Recon and Wagoneer S are expected to make their public debuts in 2023 with production scheduled for 2024. The Jeep Recon has been developed from the outset as an electric vehicle, but the design and features are clearly influenced by the popular Wrangler. Recon will have enough capability to be fully Trail Rated by Jeep, thanks to a Selec-Terrain traction management system, underbody protection, an e-locker axle, tow hooks and aggressive off-road tires. This electric Jeep features a one-touch power top and removeable doors.
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Wagoneer S
Although the Wagoneer S is not marketed as a Jeep model per se, it still draws upon longstanding Jeep heritage. Stellantis will be offering this all-new take on the flagship Wagoneer as a battery-electric vehicle. The second electric vehicle planned for North America, this e Wagoneer S is a sleek, futuristic look at a family sized Wagoneer. Expect full 4WD capability and the most advanced technologies in this latest electric utility vehicle, enabling a targeted driving range of 400 miles on a single charge. Stellantis says the Wagoneer will generate 600 horsepower and have the ability to sprint to 60 mph in around 3.5 seconds — performance on the level of the Grand Cherokee Trackhawk.
