2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys '41: A Classic Reborn in Electric Glory

When Jeep unveiled the 2025 Wrangler 4xe Willys '41 Special Edition, their aim was straightforward: to pay tribute to the iconic 1941 Willys MB while also moving toward an era that calls for greater fuel efficiency, adaptability, and technological advancements.

Following an entire week of driving, I can confidently state that Jeep got it right.

Heritage That Drives Forward

Before exploring the performance of the Willys '41 in modern times, it's crucial to grasp its origins.

In 1940, the U.S. Army requested that automobile manufacturers develop a lightweight, durable scout car. In response, Willys-Overland presented what eventually became known as the Willys MB—a vehicle renowned for its dependability, sturdiness, and exceptional off-road performance during World War II. Troops lovingly referred to this creation as the "Jeep," a term that has become an enduring part of American lore.

The 2025 Wrangler 4xe Willys '41 captures that original essence through its intentional design and enhanced contemporary features, resulting in a distinctive creation.

Initial Impressions: Tough Yet Refined

At first glance, the exterior narrates its tale. This particular Jeep model boasts an olive drab paint job inspired by military aesthetics, enhanced with genuine drab blue hood graphics reminiscent of those found on vintage warJeeps. The design also incorporates army-themed decals for added authenticity. Completing the look are distinctive 17-inch wheels finished in matching olive drab, fitted with robust 33-inch all-terrain tires that clearly underscore its off-road prowess.

Inside, the Willys '41 pays homage with tan Heritage cloth seats, an olive drab fabric dashboard insert, and a ‘41 emblem integrated into the gearshift. This design maintains a thoughtful respect for history without coming across as overly kitschy.

Ease, Efficiency, and Daily Usability

Although the Willys '41 showcases its military heritage with pride, it also offers daily comfort and convenience.

• Sky One-Click Electric Sunroof At the press of a button, the complete rooftop retracts, providing an open-air feel without the inconvenience of lifting cumbersome sections. This feature significantly enhances everyday commuting as well as impromptu excursions.

• Optional Soft Top For those seeking the traditional Wrangler style along with the complete ability to remove the roof, an exclusive tan soft top will be offered.

• Premium Touchpoints Even though the Willys '41 has a tough exterior, it boasts soft-touch materials within the cabin and maintains robust construction standards overall.

• Infotainment A big, user-friendly touch screen offers integration with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, includes built-in navigation, and supports voice commands, ensuring drivers stay connected.

• Power Outlets Various USB-A, USB-C, and 12V ports are conveniently located, facilitating simpler device charging during travel.

• Smart Storage The lockable central compartment and rear storage area provide safety for your belongings when you're enjoying an open-top drive.

Safety Features That Matter

Despite its traditional design, the Willys '41 includes contemporary safety and driving aid features, such as:

• Forward Collision Warning

• Adaptive Cruise Control

• Blind Spot Monitoring

• Reverse Cross Traffic Alert

• Electronic Stability Control

• ParkSense Rear Parking Assist System

• Trailer Sway Control

These characteristics hold particular importance for individuals who intend to use their Wrangler for regular driving or extensive road trips—not merely for off-road adventures.

The Drivetrain: Where Efficiency Encounters Adventure

The 2025 Willys '41 comes exclusively as a plug-in hybrid 4xe model. This setup combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four gasoline engine with dual electric motors and a 17-kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

The result?

• 375 horsepower

• 470 pounds per foot of torque

• As much as 21 miles of electric-only driving range

• Approximate 49 MPGe combined efficiency

This indicates that you have the option to cruise through town using only electric power, or unleash substantial torque whenever off-roading requires it—for instance, during steep ascents, driving over loose gravel, or navigating muddy paths.

While testing the vehicle in an off-road setting within a rocky pit, I found that the immediate torque provided by the electric engines made navigating difficult terrains nearly seamless. The Willys '41 handled even sharp ascents and scenarios where only three wheels were touching the ground with ease.

It did exceptionally well, taking the top spot as my personal off-road champion for 2025, surpassing even the GMC Sierra AT4X AEV.

Pricing and Availability

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys '41 has a base MSRP of $61,825 (including destination). Orders are currently available, with shipments anticipated to arrive by year-end.

AutoNsider’s Buyer’s Guide: 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys '41

Pros:

• Genuine Jeep off-roading capability paired with contemporary fuel efficiency

• Design elements reminiscent of the past that seem genuine rather than contrived

• The plug-in hybrid system provides an actual electric-only range suitable for brief journeys.

• The Sky One-Touch roof offers an open-air experience without inconvenience.

• Fully loaded with amenities and security features

Cons:

• More expensive than regular Wrangler models

• Restricted distance when driving solely on electricity relative to certain more recent electric vehicles

• The ride quality has become smoother compared to before, yet it remains firmer than that of a crossover.

Best for:

• Fans of Jeeps who value their heritage

• Motorists seeking robust off-road performance alongside contemporary technology

• Shoppers seeking a plug-in hybrid SUV that maintains a tough and exploratory vibe

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys '41 goes beyond a distinctive paint scheme; it represents a significant advancement in the Jeep heritage.

It brings authentic styling, meaningful history, real electric driving, and serious off-road talent into one highly capable package.

If you appreciate Jeep’s heritage and future direction, the Willys '41 could very well be the perfect way to honor both aspects.