BACK TO THE ROOTS

4x4magazine | 30/06/2012 | 0 Comments

More than 70 years ago, the U.S. government informed automakers that it was looking for a “light reconnaissance vehicle” for military use. Willys-Overland quickly created the Willys Quad – which became the Willys MA and MB – but the Army, and the world, came to know the vehicle that would help win a world war as the Jeep.

As a tribute to U.S. military members past and present, the Jeep brand has created the new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Freedom edition. Available in red, white or blue, the new Jeep Wrangler Freedom edition features a military-inspired star decal on the hood and rear quarter panels, along with an “Oscar Mike” (military jargon for “on the move”) fender badge.
The new limited-edition 2012 Jeep Wrangler Freedom model is based on the best-selling Sport model with 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, and is available as a two-door Wrangler or four-door Wrangler Unlimited model.
Exterior features include unique Mineral Gray-painted 17-inch alloy wheels borrowed from the Wrangler Rubicon, Mineral Gray-painted grille and front and rear bumper inserts, body-color wheel arches and side steps, prominent “Oscar Mike” star-in-circle fender badges and decals on the hood and rear quarter panels, black sidesteps with matching black tail lamp guards and a Mopar fuel fill door, and a Sunrider soft top with deep-tint rear windows.
Interior treatments include black seats with rugged tectonic fabric, an “Oscar Mike” logo embroidered on the seat backs in silver stitching, French Silver accent stitching on the steering wheel, doors, seats and front arm rest, and “Quick Silver” accents on the front passenger grab handle, door pulls and dash vent rings. Finishing touches include Satin Chrome spokes on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and Mopar Slush Mats.
Other standard features include power windows and locks, remote keyless entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, and UConnect voice command and connectivity group.
Jeep will donate $250 from each Wrangler Freedom Edition it sells to charities that benefit U.S. military members. Specifically, funds will be split between the Fisher House Foundation and the I Support Foundation. Fisher House Foundation provides a “home away from home” for military families to be close to a loved one during hospitalization for an illness, disease or injury, while the I Support Foundation provides resources to troops returning home – such as jobs and various healthcare needs – and issues grants to 40 charities that provide valuable services to U.S. veterans.
Chrysler Group LLC also offers a $500 cash allowance to military members that may be applied toward the retail purchase or lease of an eligible Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram Truck or FIAT vehicle. Eligible consumers include active military, active military reserve, retired military (honorable discharge and 20 years of service required), and retired military reserve (honorable discharge and 20 years of service required).
“The Jeep brand has a long, renowned history that began with its significant presence and success within the U.S. military,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Jeep – and particularly the Wrangler – is the icon for capability and durability, and is a true symbol of American freedom. The new Jeep Wrangler Freedom Edition is created in honor of Jeep’s one-of-a-kind history, and as a tribute to all of the brave men and women who have and continue to serve in the U.S. military.”