The 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys ‘41 Special Edition is a plug-in hybrid tribute to Jeep’s military roots, blending retro styling with modern electrified capability. It’s a rugged, nostalgic nod to the original Willys MB, but it comes at a premium—and not just in price.
The Jeep Wrangler has always worn its heritage proudly, but the 2025 Willys ‘41 Special Edition takes that pride and paints it olive drab—literally. This limited-run model is a visual homage to the original Willys MB that helped win World War II, and it leans hard into that legacy with military-inspired styling, exclusive badging, and a single, extra-cost paint colour: Heritage Verde Green. Jeep knows its audience here—this is a vehicle for enthusiasts who want their off-roader to look like it just rolled out of a 1940s motor pool, albeit with a lithium-ion battery pack under the floor.
At its core, the Willys ‘41 is based on the Wrangler 4xe, Jeep’s plug-in hybrid variant that pairs a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two electric motors and a 17.3-kWh battery pack. Combined output is a healthy 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission and Jeep’s full-time four-wheel-drive system. The result is a Wrangler that can crawl rocks in near silence, cruise on electric power alone for up to 35 km, and still deliver the kind of torque-rich performance that off-roaders crave.
On the trail, the Willys ‘41 performs like any well-equipped Wrangler 4xe. It comes standard with Rubicon shocks, 33-inch mud-terrain tires, Tru-Lok rear differential, and rock rails, giving it serious off-road chops. The electric torque delivery is especially useful in low-speed technical terrain, where throttle modulation and instant response are key. Jeep’s Selec-Trac 4×4 system and Off-Road+ mode allow drivers to tailor traction and throttle settings to the terrain, and the Willys ‘41 doesn’t shy away from mud, sand, or snow.
But while the off-road capability is impressive, the on-road experience is still very much Wrangler. The ride is firm, the steering vague, and wind noise is ever-present at highway speeds. The plug-in hybrid system adds weight—over 5,200 pounds curb weight—which slightly dulls handling and braking response. And while the electric-only range is useful for short commutes or trailhead approaches, once the battery is depleted, fuel economy drops to around 9.4 L/100 km combined, which is only marginally better than a standard V6 Wrangler.
Inside, the Willys ‘41 Special Edition gets unique touches like canvas-style seat upholstery, vintage-inspired graphics, and a dashboard plaque commemorating the original 1941 Willys. It’s a clever blend of old and new, with modern tech like a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Jeep’s latest Uconnect 5 system. The cabin still feels utilitarian—this is a Wrangler, after all—but the special edition details give it a sense of occasion that elevates it above the standard fare.
Tthe Wrangler 4xe already starts around $62,000 CAD, and the Willys ‘41 Special Edition pushes that figure well into the $70,000–$75,000 CAD range depending on options.
Still, for the right buyer, the Willys ‘41 is more than just a vehicle. It’s a rolling tribute. It’s for those who want to celebrate Jeep’s military lineage while embracing the brand’s electrified future. It’s a conversation starter, a collector’s piece, and a capable off-roader all in one. And in a world where many SUVs are becoming indistinguishable crossovers, the Willys ‘41 stands out by leaning into its past with unapologetic flair.
That said, it’s not without its compromises. The hybrid system, while innovative, still feels like a transitional step rather than a fully realized EV experience. The electric range is modest, and the fuel economy gains are incremental at best. The ride and handling remain unchanged from the standard Wrangler, which means it’s not the most comfortable daily driver. And the price especially with the special edition markup, puts it in competition with more refined and efficient alternatives.
In the end, the 2025 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys ‘41 Special Edition is a niche offering with a clear mission: to honor Jeep’s roots while showcasing its electrified ambitions. It’s not the most practical or affordable way to go off-road, but it might be the most characterful. For those who want their Wrangler to make a statement and have the budget to match; it’s a compelling, if imperfect, package.