As 2020 draws to a close, it’s time to look forward to 2021 – a year which brings with it some notable anniversaries in the car world. Jeep will enjoy one of the most significant as it celebrates 80 years, and it has already given us a flavour of how it intends to mark it by unveiling an array of 80thAnniversary special-edition models.
Over the years, the US company has established one of the strongest brand identities in the world, with its name developing into ubiquitous generic terminology for a certain type of rugged off-road vehicle. It’s done this via a succession of charismatic and occasionally iconic models that, frankly, just wouldn’t have had the same appeal had they sported a different badge. Here we salute six fantastic Jeeps that define the enduring allure of one of the world’s best loved car brands.
Willys MB, 1941
The whole essence of Jeep’s all-American appetite for adventure can be traced back to this beautiful model, which proved an unbreakable companion for thousands of GIs during World War II, saving many lives along the way. Willys’ four-wheel-drive jeep skilfully incorporated a blend of durability and versatility to become the most iconic vehicle of the conflict, famously hailed by General George Marshall, US Chief of Staff during WWII, as “America’s greatest contribution to modern warfare.” Although no powerhouse – it had a 60hp straight-four engine – it provided decent pace and its design is considered an all-time classic, having featured in an exhibition alongside icons such as the original VW Beetle and Jaguar E-Type at the New York Museum of Modern Art. And once the war was over, it importance was reconfirmed as the basis for the CJ, the first civilian vehicle of the new Jeep brand.
Jeep Cherokee, 1984
While the Cherokee first appeared in 1975, it was to all intents and purposes a successful reimagining of the Wagoneer. The 1984 version took a different approach; it was shorter and lighter as Jeep bosses correctly realised the sales potential of a more compact (and affordable) SUV. Buyers lapped it up – just under three million were sold globally during its lifespan, with many buyers of traditional saloons, hatches and estates converted worldwide. The Cherokee offered comfort, reliability and – of course – off-road ability at a relatively affordable price and is considered by many as the true pioneer of today’s obsession with crossovers and SUVs. And it looks great too – while the design is very much of its time, the front end is a great manifestation of the brand’s famous seven-slot grille.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer, 1984
Fans of the brand will be aware that a reborn Grand Wagoneer is on the way, with a concept revealed earlier this year showing what we can expect from the posh SUV when it returns to production in 2021. It’ll do well to match the impact made by the original version, which could trace its roots back to 1963. Launched as the Wagoneer, before the Range Rover had even been contemplated, it arguably invented the idea of a plush 4WD SUV and was a significant presence throughout the Sixties and Seventies. The first Grand Wagoneer arrived in 1984 and was unmistakably the pinnacle of the range. Looking back now, its wood-clad exterior panels and opulent cabin appear dated and, some might say, verge on kitsch. But it had an army of fans, and there were plenty of tears when it was discontinued in 1991, a victim of safety regulations and high fuel prices.
Jeep Wrangler YJ, 1986
Think of Jeep now and the model most people will associate with the brand is the Wrangler, the small go-anywhere 4WD that has built up a huge following. But you may be surprised to learn that the badge didn’t appear until 1986 on a model that was known internally as the YJ. This was a replacement for the long-running CJ – which followed the Willys MB, remember – and although the name was new, the recipe was the same: extreme off-road ability in a compact package. What marked the YJ out from its predecessor (and successors, too) were its rectangular headlights. This controversial styling cue continues to divide fans to this day; while some felt it was sacrilege, others love the fact it makes the YJ so distinctive. Whatever, its status as the first Wrangler means its significance is assured.
Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk 2017
Another reason to love Jeep is that it does things that conventional car makers just wouldn’t consider, and a perfect example of that is the ridiculous Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. In no logical world does a large SUV require a supercharged 6.2-litre engine that produces 707bhp and 881Nm and can deliver a 0-62mph time of 3.7 seconds, plus a top speed in the region of 180mph. (For the record, a Lamborghini Urus puts out a measly 641bhp). The Trackhawk is neither light (at 2.4 tonnes) nor cheap (£90,000 when it went on sale in the UK in 2018) and there will be fun sponges who argue that it is a wholly unnecessary automotive folly. But it’s a great example of Jeep’s long-held maverick spirit.
Jeep Gladiator, 2019
Having arrived in US showrooms only a year ago, the long-term impact the Gladiator will have for the brand is still a little unclear. But on paper at least, it should become one of Jeep’s definitive vehicles, given America’s love for the pick-up and the fact it leans heavily on the iconic Wrangler for inspiration. An unapologetic blend of classic design, exceptional off-road practicality and typical truck practicality, it’s a hugely distinctive presence compared to some big-selling but rather anonymous rivals, and in many ways makes you wonder why Jeep hasn’t sold a pick-up since the Comanche in the very early Nineties. The perfect vehicle to lead Jeep into its next 80 years? Time will tell, but the signs are good.
Keyword: Six great Jeeps worth celebrating