Jeep Wrangler: From humble Army prototype to modern-day icon
Heritage and design are the biggest reasons Jeep Wranglers are special, a thriving legacy that lives on as evidenced by HendrickCars.com’s extensive Jeep Wrangler inventory now available.
The first “Jeep,” known as the Willys-Overland “Quad,” was one of two prototypes produced and designed to meet the Army’s request for a ‘light reconnaissance vehicle’ during World War II. With little time to spare, the company introduced the first version in November 1940 after only 75 days of development. A strong foundation was set.
After a bit of reworking, a now familiar design emerged as the MA model in 1941. Drastically different from the original ‘Quad,’ the new prototypes were still 400 pounds heavier than the Army’s desired spec. Additional weight needed shedding.
Changes to the handbrake, single-piece wheels, rounded door cutouts, two-circular mounted instrument clusters and steering column-mounted gearshift resulted in the eventual approval of the Willys-Overland MB. With 16,000 ordered by the Army in late 1941, the ‘Jeep’ concept became a reality.
Eventually, a production-based version known as the CJ made its way to the civilian population. Derived from the original military version, the two-door, open-air, off-roader caught the fancy of outdoor and overland enthusiasts everywhere.
Did You Know? Back in the day, many Jeeps transitioned into Zamboni machines to help with ice resurfacing. The conversions also marketed the vehicle to winter sports fans, leading the way to further development. The move also inspired a foray into farming.
In 1986, Jeep introduced the Wrangler to the world at the Chicago Auto Show, replacing the CJ for the 1987 model year. Its popularity took off, becoming an iconic nameplate that practically fits into its own segment. So much so that 2023 marked an overall sales milestone unmatched by many vehicles throughout history.
“With 5 million Wranglers sold, the Jeep brand continues to grow, fueled by the unwavering passion of the Jeep global community,” said Jim Morrison, SVP and head of Jeep brand North America. “With legendary 4x4 capability, open-air freedom and a timeless design, the Wrangler embodies the spirit and the soul of the Jeep brand
“More than 80% of the 5 million Wranglers sold since 1986 are still on the road, having fun out there and showcasing the amazing staying power of the vehicle,” Morrison added. “Our new 2024 Wrangler raises the bar once again as the most capable Wrangler yet, with more technology, safety features and refinement.”
Familiar Style for a Modern World
Today’s Jeep Wrangler still has a familiar look and feel even after five generations of change and more than 80 years of evolution. Headed by the return of the special edition Rubicon 392, the Wrangler has a variety of trims in two and four-door configurations starting with the Sport and progressing to the Willys, Sahara, High Altitude and Rubicon.
Four powertrains highlight the Wrangler lineup: 2.0-liter turbocharged PHEV (Plugin Hybrid Electric Vehicle); 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4; 3.6-liter V6 and 6.4-liter V8.
For 2024, each trim has a blacked-out, shortened grill area to allow for an optional steel bumper installment and wench. Rubicon models also have the option of a manufacturer-installed Warn wench, which has a load capacity of more than 8,000(!) pounds.
On the technology side, the Wrangler has a host of entertainment and infotainment options. Fully customizable with predictive search navigation, it starts with the 12.3-inch digital touchscreen and highlighted by its Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and an Alexa natural voice virtual assistant. The family will also enjoy 4G LTE Wi-Fi, SiriusXM 360L platform and personalized Pandora stations.
The interior receives further simplification with a revamped dash, weather-resistant fittings and intuitive controls and knob placement. Practicality was at the heart of these updates, and the outdoor adventurer was at the top of that list.
Another feature for enthusiasts is the new Trail Offroad catalog, a detailed guide to 62 of Jeep’s ‘Badge of Honor’ trails – which includes the famous Rubicon Trail (Oklahoma) and Jericho Mountain (New Hampshire).
Jeep Wrangler 4xe Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Let’s talk specifics. The Wrangler 4xe is the model line’s flagship PHEV offering and America’s best-selling plug-in hybrid, based on a 270-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that also produces 279 foot-pounds of torque. When combined with 14 kWh battery supply and a generator, the 4xe offers a combined output of 375 horsepower at 470 foot-pounds of torque.
Available in four doors, the 4xe gives drivers 21 miles of fully electric driving, elevating the vehicle to an EPA rated 49 MPGe. This PHEV provides an extremely efficient option both around town and on the highway with a total driving range of 370 miles.
The Jeep PHEVs also include the new Jeep Power Box, entailing four 120v outlets to power multiple external devices. A traditional Level 1 Charger can fully charge the 4xe in approximately 12 hours, while a fast-charging Level 2 can do the job in two hours. Through a partnership with Qmerit, customers also have the option to install their own personal Level 2 charger at home.
The 4xe is among the five Jeep PHEV selections available to purchase.
Crossing the Rubicon
The 2024 Jeep Rubicon 392 Final Edition was just that … until it wasn’t.
In March 2024, Jeep announced that only 3,700 limited edition Rubicon 392 Final Editions were going to be available before sun-setting its most powerful normally aspirated V8 Jeep. As one would imagine, huge demand ensued … enough that Jeep officials are giving customers another bite of the apple in 2025.
So what’s all the commotion about? The Rubicon 392 might be the ultimate production-based off-roader, outputting an impressive 470 horsepower from its 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine. Mounted with an active transfer case and eight-speed automatic transmission, the 392 is the quickest, most powerful Wrangler ever produced.
Not to mention the 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels centering its 35-inch BF Goodrich all-terrain tires, half-inch suspension lift and heavy-duty rock sliders that give it 12.9 inches of ground clearance, 47.4-degree approach angle and 40.4-degree departure angle. A standard 83-piece toolkit and optional on-board air compressor create additional functionality.
The Rubicon 392 is unmistakable with its Black Nappa leather cover and 12-way adjustable seats accented by gold stitching, which gives way to what Jeep calls ‘Tupelo’ accents throughout. Other Rubicon styling includes hood and front fender decals, a medallion-adorned shifter and a 392 commemorative plague.
The Rubicon 392 may be the adventurer’s ultimate, part-time 4x4, as its low 4-to-1 gear ratio allows it to overcome any obstacle that may be in the way. True-locking differentials and advanced technology, which distributes optimal power and reduces misapplied wheel spin, help this Jeep overcome the biggest of hurdles – including large rocks and terrain. Meanwhile, power is distributed efficiently to all fours during heavy towing situations.
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