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Retro Willys vibes: Jeep Wrangler JL-2A

[Credit: All images courtesy of Jeep]

 

 

More than 80 years after the Willys CJ-2A brought Jeep capability to civilian life for the first time, the Jeep brand is going back to where it all began with the debut of the 2027 Jeep Wrangler JL-2A, the 11th drop in the yearlong Twelve 4 Twelve series. The vehicle comes in 2- or 4-door options built from a Rubicon base.

"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," said Branden Coté, Jeep brand CEO. "More than eight decades later, the 2027 Wrangler JL-2A brings that story full circle, carrying forward an iconic silhouette shaped by 85 years of continuous 4x4 leadership while honoring the original through unmistakable design details and delivering the freedom, adventure, and legendary capability that will take a new generation wherever the trail leads."

From battlefield to back forty
In July 1945, the battle-proven formula of the military Willys MB was adapted for civilian life with the introduction of the Willys CJ-2A, the first Jeep vehicle designed specifically for civilian use and the beginning of the "CJ," or Civilian Jeep, legacy. Built by Willys-Overland in Toledo, OH, the CJ-2A brought proven Jeep capability to farms, ranches, and industry, adding practical features, including a tailgate and rear power takeoff, along with larger headlights and the now-iconic seven-slot grille.

Bold postwar color combinations, including Harvest Tan with Sunset Red wheels and Pasture Green with Autumn Yellow wheels, brought personality to the purpose-built workhorse and directly inspired its modern-day namesake.

Classic cues, modern capability
The 2027 Wrangler JL-2A reaches back to 1945 for inspiration, reimagining the original's bold colors and iconic design cues with a modern Wrangler attitude.

Exterior highlights include:

• A modern salute to the original CJ-2A's color palette, led by Gobi on the two-door and '41 on the four-door, with Bright White, Sting Gray, Ghost, and Joose also available; Gobi draws inspiration from the original's Harvest Tan finish
• Exclusive 17-in. retro wheels painted Joose, a nod to the original Sunset Red wheels, paired with standard 33-in. BFGoodrich KO2 All-Terrain tires
• Body-color fender flares and three-piece hardtop create a clean, cohesive exterior
• Front and rear orange tow hooks add bold pops of color and unmistakable Jeep character
• Dark Metallic Grey grille accents give the iconic seven-slot grille a distinctive modern look

Willys DNA
Inside, the JL-2A's Willys roots come to life through a newly developed, first-ever Wrangler interior color and material combination that goes beyond unique accents, bringing together premium materials, bold color, and exclusive details inspired by the original.

Exclusive interior highlights include:

• Nappa Heritage Tan leather wraps the seats, along with Nappa PUR instrument-panel mid-bolster, bringing warmth and premium craftsmanship to the cabin
• Rich Bison Brown door panels, lower instrument panel, and center console create a rich striking environment
• Bold Desert Orange accent stitching is featured throughout the cabin, creating a vibrant visual connection to the Joose-painted wheels
• Exclusive Willys-Overland satin chrome shifter medallion and heritage-inspired HVAC vent graphics pay tribute to Jeep brand's Willys roots, featuring the iconic seven-slot grille on one side and a Willys silhouette on the other
• Exclusive rear swing gate plaque recreates original CJ-2A dashboard data plate artwork, with farm and factory scenes recalling the vehicle's original agricultural and industrial mission
• Standard Convenience Group with remote start, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and universal garage door opener
• Standard front TrailCam with integrated washer

The 2027 Jeep Wrangler JL-2A will be available to order in October, with a package MSRP of $4,995, delivering its unique content for $115 more than a similarly equipped Rubicon.

Learn more at jeep.com/twelve4twelve/wrangler-jl2a.html.

Source: Jeep

Published September 2026

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