Jeep’s New Heritage 4×4 Throws It Back to the Very BeginningGear PatrolgvandykeUpdatedMon, September 14, 2026 at 4:08 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleThe seven-slot grille has dropped an old-school Wrangler that looks back to the genesis of its civilian presence.If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn moreFrom old-school plaid seats to '80s-inspired decals, Jeep's yearlong Twelve 4 Twelve special-edition series has produced some compelling heritage-laden Wrangler treatments.Even so, the latest installment lands differently.For the 11th drop in its Twelve 4 Twelve campaign, Jeep has lifted the name and visual identity directly from the postwar vehicle that launched its civilian lineage in 1945.The family resemblance is even more evident with the new shoes. - Credit: StellantisIt's a true throwback to the very beginning.A celebration of the CJ OGIt's called the Wrangler JL-2A, and it's intended to pay respects to the Willys CJ-2A. The first Civilian Jeep (CJ) derived from the military MB, it brought tactical toughness to farms, ranches and private industry.Jeep's Joose orange wheels are meant to evoke the Sunset Red of the CJ-2A. - Credit: StellantisAs part of its adjustment to peacetime, the new CJ-2A improved on the MB in a couple of key ways.AdvertisementAdvertisementBeyond practical additions like a tailgate and larger headlights, this also meant vibrant visual options to attract public interest, such as Harvest Tan with Sunset Red wheels and Pasture Green with Autumn Yellow wheels.Accordingly, Jeep's new JL-2A wears similar paint options as a nod to its predecessor. Along with "Gobi" for the two-door and "41" for the four-door, the brand is offering Bright White, Sting Gray, Ghost and Joose.Being a Rubicon at its core, the JL-2A brings plenty of factory off-road equipment. - Credit: StellantisFurthermore, Jeep is pairing each choice with a set of exclusive 17-inch retro-styled wheels. Painted Joose orange, they're a vibrant addition that's surprisingly cohesive on account of the corresponding interior.That's because, from the Nappa Heritage Tan leather and the Bison Brown door panels to the Desert Orange stitching, the inside is designed to exude old-school charm.The Nappa Heritage Tan leather, together with the Bison Brown, really gives the Wrangler an old-school look. - Credit: StellantisAt first blush, it's an effective overhaul, and Jeep keeps the tribute effort subtle and tasteful. Most notably, the Wrangler gets a special shifter medallion and a swing gate plaque that recreates original CJ-2A dashboard data plate artwork.AdvertisementAdvertisementWhile Jeep doesn't mention any powertrain differences, the JL-2A does at least promise to be a capable off-roader. The package is ultimately based on a Rubicon.The coolest aspect of Jeep's Twelve 4 Twelve program has undoubtedly been the unique swing gate plaques. - Credit: StellantisAs such, between front and rear locking diffs, an electronic front sway bar disconnect and a Dana 44 rear axle, it brings true trail pedigree. Together with features like a trail camera and an infotainment upgrade, it only highlights how much the icon has evolved.Availability and pricingAccording to Jeep's announcement, the Wrangler JL-2A package will be available starting in October at an MSRP of $4,995.Jeep Wrangler JL-2A Package Starts at $4,995 About the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.AdvertisementAdvertisementWant to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.