Jeep is keeping its 85th anniversary momentum rolling with the 2026 Wrangler Willys 392, a limited-edition model that blends old-school Willys attitude with modern muscle. It is the fourth release in Jeep’s yearlong Twelve 4 Twelve series, and it lands with the kind of headline that instantly grabs attention: a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 under the hood, rated at 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.
What makes this one interesting is how Jeep is packaging the idea. The Willys name has always been tied to the stripped-back, go-anywhere roots of the brand, and Jeep is leaning into that heritage vibe with Willys decals and 4WD graphics while still giving buyers the full-fat V8 experience. The message to the market feels pretty direct: there is still a place for a loud, character-rich off-roader in a world that keeps nudging toward downsized engines and electrification.
From an industry standpoint, the feature list reads like Jeep knows exactly what enthusiasts want on day one. The Wrangler Willys 392 comes standard with 35-inch BFGoodrich KO2 tires on 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, a Selec-Trac full-time transfer case, a Tru-Lok electronic locking rear differential, and heavy-duty Dana 44 hardware including a full-float rear axle. Jeep also includes rock rails, steel bumpers front and rear, and a winch-capable front bumper, which is basically a factory-built check list for buyers who would otherwise spend weeks on the aftermarket.
Jeep also worked in a smart “best of both worlds” touch with the two-mode dual exhaust. Owners can keep it civilized when needed or open it up for the full V8 soundtrack, which matters more than ever as automakers try to preserve personality in an era of tightening noise and efficiency targets. Add in the cold air intake hood with a water separator, and it is clear this isn’t just a graphics package trying to cash in on a name.
Inside, Jeep is going upscale without losing the straightforward Wrangler vibe. Nappa leather heated and power front seats, an Alpine nine-speaker premium audio system with a 552-watt amp, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation bring it in line with what buyers expect from a $70K-plus SUV. Useful items like auxiliary switches and the Trailer Tow Package are included, and Jeep is even expanding the paint palette with a new heritage-inspired color called Goldilocks arriving in March.
The bigger takeaway for new vehicles is that Jeep is actively protecting the space for high-power, enthusiast-focused trims while still modernizing the experience with tech and comfort. Orders open in March, and the starting MSRP is $69,995, excluding the $1,995 destination charge. If Jeep can deliver this mix of V8 performance, factory-ready off-road hardware, and a more attainable entry point than some previous high-spec Wrangler specials, expect rivals and even other Stellantis brands to take notes on how much appetite is still out there for big-engine fun.
Lloyd Tobias is a seasoned automotive journalist and passionate enthusiast with over 15 years of experience immersed in the world of cars. Whether it’s exploring the latest advancements in automotive technology or keeping a close pulse on breaking industry news, Lloyd brings a sharp perspective and a deep appreciation for all things automotive. His writing blends technical insight with real-world enthusiasm, making his contributions both informative and engaging for readers who share his love for the drive. When he’s not behind the keyboard or under the hood, Lloyd enjoys test driving the newest models and staying ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.
