Jeep Revives 1945 Civilian Icon With 2027 Wrangler JL-2A
Auburn Hills, Mich. – – September 16, 2026 -- Jeep has unveiled the 2027 Wrangler JL-2A, a special edition that pays tribute to the Willys CJ-2A, the first Jeep vehicle built specifically for civilian buyers in 1945. The model is the 11th release in the brand's yearlong Twelve 4 Twelve series and will be available to order in October.
Built on the Wrangler Rubicon platform, the JL-2A adds a package priced at an MSRP of $4,995, just $115 more than a similarly equipped Rubicon.
The original CJ-2A brought Jeep capability from the battlefield to the farm
In July 1945, Willys-Overland of Toledo, Ohio adapted the military Willys MB for civilian use, creating the CJ-2A. The vehicle introduced a tailgate, rear power takeoff, larger headlights and the now-iconic seven-slot grille, serving farms, ranches and industry. It also debuted bold postwar color pairings like Harvest Tan with Sunset Red wheels.