At the Los Angeles Auto Show, Jeep took the curtains off its Wrangler Willys Wheeler edition, which is based on the earlier generations vehicles of the company. As reported, the model is expected to go on sale by 2014 in major international markets. In the special edition model of Wrangler, Jeep has resorted to give a purist feel to the car, offering a throwback of its old rugged charm to customers. Elaborating about the car, Mike Manley, President and Chief Executive Officer for Jeep Brand and Chrysler Group LLC was quoted as saying, “The new Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler Edition is a Jeep purist's dream, delivering a Jeep vehicle that harkens back to the original, classic CJs of the 1940s. This new Jeep vehicle delivers pure functionality and rugged capability in a unique package that recognizes the origins of the brand."
In the special edition model, the company has given away extra off-roading equipment that truly showcases the company's ability to manufacture a true off-roader. Largely based on the Wrangler Sport model, the Willys Wheeler Edition gets a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine that produces a maximum power of 285 bhp and 352 Nm of torque. The engine of the car is paired with a standard six-speed manual while the five-speed automatic transmission version is also available. As claimed by the Jeep brand, the car possess an ability to deliver a mileage of about 9 kmpl under different road conditions.
Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler Edition features new and advanced equipment that include Dana 44 rear axle with Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential. In order to give a firm grip on rough terrains, the company has given BF Goodrich KM Mud Terrain LT255/75R17 tires and rock rails. Also to mention, the car is given away with a new Jeep Trail Rated Kit that has D-Ring, tow strap and gloves. To give an improved off-roading experience, the Jeep Command-Trac 4x4 part-time and two-speed transfer case is given in Wrangler Willys Wheeler Edition.
As seen at its exterior design, the auto maker has used gloss black grille with black Jeep badge, 17-inch aluminium wheels, Sun rider soft top and deep-tint sunscreen rear windows, besides the 'Willys' hood decals. As far as optional features are concerned, a premium Sun rider soft top and black-splatter Freedom top are available. Talking about the features of Willys Wheeler Edition, it gets a Connectivity Group with SiriusXM satellite radio whereas in the Sport S-based models, Power Convenience Group and Premium Tire Pressure Monitoring System are given as stock.
It is said that buyers can opt for any colour of Jeep Wrangler in the Willys Wheeler Edition. The upcoming car of Jeep is expected to roll out in 2014 from the Toledo Supplier Park facility. At present, the line-up of Jeep in North America comprises Cherokee, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. The company is likely to debut in India by 2014 as reports have suggested that Cherokee and Wrangler models are expected to be launched at the 2014 Auto Expo.
