80 years of Jeep is marked with the launch of some special edition 4x4s.
2021 marks the 80th anniversary of Jeep. Established way back in 1941 with the legendary Willys MB army-spec 4×4, over the last 80 years it has since become a global and recognisable brand that is synonymous with rugged, off-road ready SUVs.
So in celebration of this historic milestone, the American off-roading marque is marking its 80th anniversary with a series of commemorative cars. To be available on the Renegade, Compass, Wrangler and Gladiator, the full list of special edition additions made to each specific model can be found in the extremely detailed press release below.
Suffice to say however, Jeep has stated that these special edition 4x4s, which are incidentally all based on their respective best selling variants, all share the same ‘unmistakable look’, thanks to low-gloss Granite Crystal exterior accents and 80th anniversary badging. Custom alloy wheels too are to be found on these commemorative SUVs.
Moving inside meanwhile, the traditional utilitarian interior has been jazzed up for these commemorative-spec Jeeps with diamond-pattern cloth or black leather seats, complete with tungsten-coloured stitching. Other interior enhancements on these special edition SUVs include high-gloss black accents on the dashboard, 80th anniversary logo tags on the seats and floor mats, as well as unique graphic elements on the infotainment system.
To be available with either a range of conventional fuel-burning engines or Jeep’s recently launched 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain for the Renegade and Compass models, these commemorative Jeeps will interestingly begin sale in Europe first in Spring, before being available in its home market of America.
Nevertheless, seeing as Jeep back in Malaysia (yet again), there is a high chance some of these 80th anniversary models might well make it into the hands of Jeep fanatics over here. So keep your eyes peeled for these grey-accented special edition Jeeps tackling the rough Malaysian roads in sometime in the near future.
PRESS RELEASE: 2021 is a special year for Jeep as the brand marks its 80th birthday with a celebration of eight decades of 4×4 leadership, open-air freedom and adventure.
The Jeep legend began in 1941 with the fabled Willys MB – the first ever mass-produced 4×4 vehicle – and grew over the decades with the constant launch of new products building an enduring reputation that has seen the brand become synonymous with off-road excellence.
But constant innovation have seen the legend evolve, with comfort, handling and connectivity now every bit as much of the Jeep DNA as its off-road prowess.
Now, as the Jeep brand celebrates its eighth decade, it is entering the next exciting phase in its history: this, of course, involves electrification with the launch of its first plug-in hybrid models in Europe – the new Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe – in 2020.
As the first two vehicles to carry the 4xe badge, Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe are Jeep’s take on electrification and offer zero-emission mobility, when driving in full electric mode. This has been coupled with the all-terrain safety of the Jeep eAWD system that activates when needed. Today “4xe” identifies all Jeep 4×4 vehicles featuring enhanced capability and performance, as all of which provides the best possible balance between efficiency, driving fun and attention to the environment.
In Europe, the 80th anniversary celebrations will play out across through the whole of 2021, with dedicated events created to bring customers and enthusiasts closer to the brand and its heritage. The first event took place today with a web conference, where the new ’80th Anniversary‘ special-edition models were revealed. Not only do these models pay tribute to the brand’s 80-year history, they also continue the long-established tradition, started in 1966, of producing special-edition models to mark special anniversaries or achievements.
New ’80th Anniversary‘ special-edition models
The star of 2021 will be the ’80th Anniversary‘ special series, the celebratory special-edition models available on Renegade, Compass, Wrangler and Gladiator. Each ‘80th Anniversary‘ model is based on the best-selling variant, and offers standard safety and technology features alongside aesthetic flourishes that make them truly unique.
The first Jeep ’80th Anniversary‘ model to debut is the Renegade, which is already available at Jeep dealerships across Europe. Compass, Wrangler and Gladiator ’80th Anniversary’ will arrive in spring.
Although there are many differences between these Jeep SUVs in terms of size and character, they all share an unmistakable look, courtesy of specific design cues, including ’80th Anniversary‘ badging enriched by low-gloss Granite Crystal accents; diamond-pattern cloth or black leather seats with tungsten stitching and ’80th Anniversary‘ logo; interior high-gloss black accents and logo tag on seats and mats. Dedicated alloy wheels complete the exterior look of the new commemorative models.
Powered by internal combustion engines and Jeep plug-in hybrid systems, they will also be packed full of advanced technology and safety features, as all of which enhances Jeep’s unparalleled 4×4 capability.
New high-tech content includes 8.4- to 10.1-inch touchscreens, DAB radio and navigation with smartphone integration and Uconnect services, full LED pack and new ’Since 1941‘ infotainment system screen.
The ’80th Anniversary‘ special edition will also be the first version of New Compass to debut in the European market, ahead of the official launch of the new model with a dedicated event later this year.
A year of exclusive events and services for all members of the Jeep family
This year’s product news will be accompanied by special communications initiatives and dedicated events, to bring even more customers and enthusiasts closer to the Jeep tradition.
One such initiative is Jeep Wave, the new programme offering Jeep owners exclusive services and special benefits to enhance their sense of belonging to the community at the heart of the Jeep experience around the world. Jeep Wave will be offered from January on the ’80th Anniversary‘ special series and all 2021-purchased or leased Jeep vehicles. It is marked out by a logo inspired by the traditional greeting of Jeep owners – a raised hand waving, or two or four fingers extended upward from the steering wheel. This gesture of friendship is part of Jeep history, and all ‘Jeepers’ are pleased to uphold this tradition.
The main benefits of Jeep Wave include: the first two scheduled vehicle services (within 24 months of the purchase), thanks to the ’EASY CARE‘ two-year maintenance programme, a 24/7 roadside assistance service, a Priority Customer Service provided by a dedicated, multi-lingual Jeep Call Center and privileged entry to brand events and partnerships. The new Jeep Wave program has already been launched in the main European markets and all the others will follow in the coming months.
80 years of innovations and a new era of sustainable mobility
Of course, there have been many changes since 1941, but the way Jeep conceives its vehicles – and how most owners live them everyday – have been constants. This has created the global perception of Jeep as a symbol of freedom, adventure, authenticity and passion.
Just think back to the 1941 Willys MB, followed in 1949 by the four-wheel drive Willys Wagon that kicked off the Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV) category, and the ‘invention’ of the ‘Premium’ SUV with the Wagoneer in 1963. In its eight decades of history, Jeep has always been a pioneer of new segments and new technologies. It is now ready to write a new page in its long history with the new Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe models.
These pioneers will be soon joined by the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid – the most technologically advanced and capable Wrangler ever – unveiled last September in Detroit (USA). Among other epic journeys, the new model has recently managed to complete – in full-electric mode – the Rubicon Trail on the Sierra Nevada mountain range, one of the world’s most challenging off-road tails and the terrain Jeep has long used to test and improve the off-road capability of its SUVs.
Jeep Renegade “80th Anniversary”
The exterior of the new Jeep Renegade “80th Anniversary” features a distinctive styling with low gloss Granite Crystal accents on the vehicle’s iconic seven-slot front grille, 18-inch alloy wheels and exclusive 80th Anniversary commemorative badge.
Blacked-out windows and the Full LED pack with LED daytime running lights, headlamps, fog lamps and tail lamps complete the exterior look of this new special edition model.
Inside the cabin are diamond pattern dark grey cloth seats (also available in black leather) with tungsten stitching and 80th Anniversary tag.
Black headliner and Berber floor mats with commemorative badging enhance the dark, all-black environment where a host of user-friendly technology is found, which includes the UconnectTM infotainment system with 8.4-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB radio with GPS navigation and UconnectTM services. Unique to the ’80th Anniversary‘ trim is a new infotainment splash screen featuring a ‘Since 1941‘ theme.
Advanced safety and security features available on the new Renegade “80th Anniversary” include Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Path detection, Forward Collision Warning Plus, Lane Departure Warning Plus, Intelligent Speed Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition, front and rear parking sensors and Drowsy Driver Detection, which detects the level of driver’s fatigue in order to prevent accidents.
The engine range features a choice of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid electric powertrains, which are all Euro 6D Final compliant. Specifically, the offer includes an updated 1.6-litre Multijet II, delivering 130 hp at 3,750 rpm, and 320 Nm of torque at 1,500 rpm. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive, this diesel engine has received performance upgrades and now features a 10 hp increase in power delivery versus the 1.6-litre diesel available on the previous model year.
The petrol range includes a 3-cylinder 1.0-litre turbo engine producing 120 hp and 190 Nm of peak torque, combined with a six-speed manual transmission, and a 4-cylinder 1.3-litre turbo engine delivering 150 hp and 270 Nm of peak torque, paired with a Dual Dry Clutch Transmission (DDCT). Both petrol options are fitted with front-wheel drive.
A 4-cylinder 1.3-litre turbo engine with plug-in hybrid technology, delivering 190 hp and 270 Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and eAWD completes the engine offer on the Renegade 80th Anniversary special-edition model, which is already available at Jeep dealerships across Europe.
Renegade MY 2021 range
The introduction of the 80th Anniversary series follows the market launch of the Renegade model year 2021, which features a revised internal combustion engine range, updated to enhance the performance of the front-wheel drive versions and meet Euro 6D Final standards.
For 2021, the Renegade is available with petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid engines, four trim levels (Longitude, Limited, S and Trailhawk) as well as the new 80th Anniversary special-edition model.
To enhance the peculiar flair for personalisation of the Jeep compact SUV, a choice of 7 specific wheels and 18 different color configurations are available on the 2021 model year also in combination with black roof.
Jeep Gladiator ’80th Anniversary’
The new Jeep Gladiator ’80th Anniversary‘ features 18-inch alloy wheels with Granite Crystal accents, Neutral Grey Metallic front grille and fog lamp bezels and Neutral Grey Metallic headlamp rings, body-colour hard top and fender flares and celebratory badges. A spray-in bedliner and side steps add functionality and practicality, completing the aesthetic characterisation specific to this special-edition model.
In the cabin, the special series features black leather seats with tungsten stitching and 80th Anniversary badge, which are further enhancements to an already generous interior in terms of equipment. Standard technology and safety features include a 9-speaker Alpine audio system with a 552W subwoofer, Uconnect™ 8.4 NAV system with 8.4-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Path Detection and Keyless Enter ‘N Go™. Dedicated floor mats and a premium interior headliner are also included in the standard equipment.
Arriving at Jeep dealerships in spring, the new Gladiator “80th Anniversary” is powered by a 3.0-litre MultiJet V-6 diesel engine with 264 hp and 600 Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Wrangler ‘“80th Anniversary’
The iconic Jeep Wrangler is also available as exclusive ’80th Anniversary‘ special-edition model, featuring distinctive design elements such as Neutral Grey Metallic grille, headlamp and fog lamp bezels and specific 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels with Granite Crystal accents. Full LED high-visibility headlamps, body-colour hard top and the special ’80th Anniversary‘ badge on the front fender flares add to the aesthetic characterisation and mark the exclusivity of this commemorative special-edition model.
The interior features black leather seats with tungsten stitching and the ’80th Anniversary‘ badge, along with a leather wrapped dashboard with contrast stitching and specific black mats. Standard technology content includes the Uconnect™ 8.4 NAV system with 8.4-inch touchscreen, smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 7-inch TFT display and a 9-speaker Alpine audio system with a 552W subwoofer.
Standard safety features include Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Path Detection, rear camera, front and rear parking sensors, Keyless Enter ‘N Go™ and electric rearview mirrors.
The new Wrangler ’80th Anniversary‘ special-edition model will be available in Europe in spring with a 4-cylinder 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine delivering 272 hp and 400 Nm of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and with the advanced Jeep plug-in hybrid system fitted on the 4xe version.
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the most capable Wrangler ever. It offers a maximum combined output of 380 hp, courtesy of the pairing of two electric motor-generators, a high-voltage battery pack, a high-tech turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine and TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.
This is the most advanced powertrain ever developed and fitted to the Jeep icon, and it optimises efficiency of consumption and CO2 emissions, offering the option to drive in full-electric mode with a range of up to 50 km*. The electric powertrain is also perfectly integrated into the 4×4 system, enhancing the off-road performance of the Jeep Wrangler.
Wrangler MY 2021 range
For 2021, the Wrangler has been made even more efficient, safe and suitable for both everyday driving needs and off-road adventures, courtesy of the Euro 6D-Final-compliant 2.0-litre petrol engine, front camera for on- and off-road driving (standard on Rubicon and optional on Sahara and 80th Anniversary). New to the Rubicon is the Offroad+ mode which specifically calibrates the kinematic chain and chassis to tackle sand and rocks on extreme off-road trails, exploiting all the capability of the Rock Trac 4×4 system. For the first time, body-colour fender flares, roof and half doors are available on the Rubicon (half doors are also available on Sahara).
New Jeep Compass ’80th Anniversary’
The New Compass features a refreshed high-tech profile, while maintaining its distinguished urban, modern and sophisticated spirit. The first version of the New Compass to arrive in the European market will be the ’80th Anniversary‘ special edition. Flagship of Jeep’s “80th Anniversary” range, this commemorative model will be marked out by exclusive design cues, such as celebratory badges and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels. It will be available at Jeep dealerships in Europe in spring.
The New Compass boasts a refreshed exterior and completely new interior, a choice of petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid powertrains, as well as a suite of new technology content for a more comfortable and smarter urban driving experience. New safety systems will also enhance the on-road behavior and Jeep’s renowned 4×4 capabilities.
