Talk about stretching the friendship.
Jeep has just released the 85th Anniversary Wrangler with a few bits and bobs to add some interest.
The fact of the matter is that it is now six years since Jeep ditched the diesel from its rock-hopping champion and there’s still no sign of a hybrid replacement.
Back in 2020 you could get the top of the whiz Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon Auto Rock-Trac for around $71,000, with a diesel as favoured by the off-road community.
That same model is $84,000 today and now comes with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine.
The diesel produced 147kW of power and 450Nm of torque, with fuel consumption of 7.5L/100km and engine emissions of 219 g/km.
In comparison the turbo petrol engine delivers 200kW and 400Nm, takes premium 95 unleaded and uses a claimed 10.2L/100km — with emissions of 223 g/km.
Wasn’t the idea to cut down on carbon Emissions and what pray tell happened to the plug-in hybrid Wrangler 4Xe that we were promised in 2020, the same year the diesel Wrangler was named 4×4 of the year.
Unfortunately, the 4Xe was manufactured only in left-hand drive and Jeep’s mothership, Stellantis, has apparently begun phasing out 4Xe plug‑in hybrids globally, including the Wrangler 4Xe.
So the answer to that question is that we will probably never see the 4Xe.
In fact, Jeep and Chrysler have officially ceased production of plug-in hybrids in the US and that means no more Jeep Wrangler 4Xe, Jeep Grand Cherokee 4Xe, and Chrysler Pacifica PHEV.
Instead reports say it intends to focus on the production of conventional, self-charging hybrids as well as EVs with range extenders.
And, if you believe the headlines, apparently empowered by President Trump’s decision to roll back emissions regulations, Stellantis has begun quietly re-introducing diesel across its brands and lineups.
Jeep Australia remains noticeably mute.
In the meantime, it welcomes the Wrangler 85th Anniversary Special Edition, priced from $88,490 before on-road costs.
It’s part of the 2026 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator ranges which we’re told offer enhanced capability, convenience and personalisation.
The 2026 Wrangler is powered by the aforementioned 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol in-line four, while Gladiator receives the 3.6-litre Pentastar petrol V6.
Both models introduce “thoughtful” upgrades while honouring the iconic brand DNA that has defined Jeep since 1941.
Anniversary edition details:
- Plaid fabric seats with black leather-accented side bolsters
- Plaid fabric dashboard insert
- Bronze 85th Anniversary logo shifter medallion
- Bronze cup holder plaque
- Bronze 85th Anniversary swing gate plaque
- Choice of Bright White or two complimentary premium paints (Black, Granite Crystal)
- Complimentary body coloured fender flares
- Complimentary body coloured 3-piece hard top roof
- Bronze tow hooks on front steel bumper
- Blue agave ‘WRANGLER’ side hood decals
- 17-inch steel oxide alloy wheels with 85th Anniversary logo wheel caps
- 85th Anniversary blue agave swing gate decal
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