2014 Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler Edition Goes Back To The Beginning

Chrysler is stuck in the past. Retro models like the slew of Mopar Dodge vehicles unveiled at SEMA and the Fiat 500 1957 Edition capitalize on nostalgia associated with different nameplates. Now, Jeep is getting in on the action. Set to debut at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show tomorrow, the 2014 Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler Edition is an off-roader meant to recall early Jeep models like the CJ-2A.

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The Willys Wheeler Edition is based on the Wrangler Sport and features Chrysler's 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, with 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It comes coupled to either a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic.

Off-road hardware includes a Dana 44 rear axle with Trac-Lok limited-slip differential, BF Goodrich KM Mud Terrain tires (sized LT255/75R17), rock rails, and a "Jeep Trail Rated Kit" with a D-ring, tor strap, and gloves for getting the Wrangler unstuck.

Exterior changes include a grille, bumper appliques, and 17-inch aluminum wheels painted gloss black. In keeping with the "Willys" theme, this special-edition Wrangler also gets satin black "4 Wheel Drive" tailgate and "Willys" hood decals.