Jeep’s New Retro-Inspired Wrangler Option Makes Classic Off-Road Style Accessible

With its 85th anniversary on the horizon, Jeep is going all out in its celebration efforts. Along with dropping a military-inspired Willys ‘41 Buzz Gladiator, the brand has also announced a Twelve 4 Twelve program bringing a new special-edition Wrangler each month.

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November heralded the arrival of the very purple Moab 392, and December’s release is no less eye-catching. It’s called the Whitecap, and it’s a treatment that has the Wrangler reprising one of the brand’s most distinctive looks.

Less is more

According to Jeep, the Whitecap draws inspiration from the CJ-5 or ‘Universal’ sold between 1955 and 1983. Like many 4x4s of the day, the model donned an Arctic White top as part of a two-tone look that remains distinct to the era and classic even now. 

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The brand’s press release is full of lofty language, but the reality is that it’s a simple package. Along with a Bright White painted hardtop, it also includes a Bright White painted iconic seven slot grille, some body-colored fender flares, as well as side stripes and hood decals. 

While it’s strictly an aesthetic overhaul — the 2.0-liter turbo four and 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 remain as the standard engine options — it’s nevertheless an impactful special edition. The two-tone look is transformative without trying too hard.

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Moreover, it’s accessible. Unlike some special editions that tack a hefty premium onto an already expensive price tag, the Wrangler Whitecap keeps things pretty reasonable. 

Granted, it’ll cost you less the higher up in the lineup you’re willing to go. On the Sahara, it’ll run you some $2,690 with the optional body-color hardtop, and on the Rubicon, it’ll cost you $3,185 with the optional hardtop and body-color fender flares. However, if you spring for the top-tier Rubicon X, it adds just $495.

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Duck duck goose

Being only the second installment in the Twelve 4 Twelve anniversary celebration initiative, Jeep is just getting started when it comes to special editions.

Jeep

If you haven’t already had a chance to check out the landing page, it’s worth a look. Along with dropping hints in each of its announcement videos, Jeep has been teasing forthcoming drops through a series of duck designs.  

As we covered in the Moab drop, these quaint little characters pay tribute to the practice of “ducking,” which is a central part of Wrangler culture. Having originated with one pioneering owner, it’s since become core to the brand.

Jeep

Unfortunately, at this stage, Jeep hasn’t announced any intention to sell corresponding ducks alongside each of its special editions. However, maybe another auspicious Wrangler owner will take matters into their own hands and bring these designs to life.

Just the beginning

In any case, if you’d like to get your hands on the Wrangler Whitecap, you can head to Jeep’s website to learn more. As mentioned, the package retails from $495 to $3,185 depending on your chosen Wrangler model.

See you on January 12th in time for the next drop.

Stellantis

Jeep Wrangler Whitecap

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