Jeep knows the Wrangler is one of the most nostalgic, patriotic vehicles on the market, which is why the automaker continues to develop special editions that lean on that heritage. The latest is the Wrangler JL-2A, a Rubicon platform-based special edition that looks back to the Willys CJ-2A, the first civilian Jeep.
Jeep CEO Branden Cote said, “The original CJ-2A represents a defining chapter in Jeep brand history. It is the moment the Jeep vehicle found a new purpose in communities across America.” The new JL-2A is the 11th model in Jeep’s Twelve 4 Twelve vehicle launches, and it offers a range of exclusive styling elements.
It’s the latest in a planned series of 12 special editions, following the Wrangler Laredo.
Jeep equips unique 17-inch retro wheels painted in an orange-red color to honor the original model’s Sunset Red wheel paint. BFGoodrich K02 A/T tires come standard, along with orange tow hooks and dark metallic grille accents.
2-door versions of the Wrangler are available in Gobi, an exclusive tan color, and 4-door models can be sprayed with white, gray, Ghost, or Joose, which matches the wheel color.
Inside, the JL-2A comes with tan Nappa leather upholstery and a Nappa-wrapped instrument panel. Jeep also fitted Bison Brown door panels, orange accent stitching, and a Willys-Overland medallion in the shift knob. Other standard features include remote start, a front TrailCam system with an integrated washer, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Like other Wrangler models, the new JL sports a series of Jeep-inspired Easter Eggs, including a plaque on the rear tailgate with images recalling the model’s origins as an agricultural and industrial vehicle.
Jeep plans to open preorders for the Wrangler JL-2A in October. While it’s based on the Wrangler Rubicon platform, the package’s $4,995 price tag brings the SUV’s final price to just $115 more than a similarly equipped Rubicon model. However, as with other Wrangler trims, buyers have access to a wide range of upgrades and accessories, so it will be easy to push the final price higher in a hurry.
