With a nod to its military history, the special edition Wrangler Willys is more than a reminiscent stroll through Jeep history. The new 2020 model is representative of the crossover that moved the military vehicle into the mainstream civilian world.

Like its predecessor, the four-wheel drive (4WD) Willys is poised to cross some diverse terrain. Jeep’s 75th anniversary unveils a Wrangler that’s as intentional in respecting the basics as the original was focused on producing a quality workhorse that could withstand the rigors of a WWII military vehicle.

What are the features of the 2020 Jeep Wrangler Willys?

Based on the Wrangler JL Sport S trim, the 2020 Willys falls somewhere between a base model and the more option-infused Rubicon.

Available in two or four-door options, the basic features of the 2020 model include 32-inch Firestone Mud-Terrain tires framing 17-inch black gloss five-spoke wheels. High-performance shock absorbers and heavy-duty rock rails provide capable control and protection.

With its classic retro styling, the Willys emanates adventure. The design offers a black gloss grill with headlamp inserts complete with Sport LED lighting, including fog lamps and reflector headlamps.

No detail is too small for this special edition Wrangler. The hood decal symbolizes the Willys’ heritage, and the 4 X 4 emblem on the rear swing door proudly displays Wrangler’s historical prowess.

The interior provides a standard all-weather floor mat package, a nine-speaker Alpine Premium Audio System, cloth seats, adaptable, storage space, dual-zone temperature control, and clear view exterior mirrors.

With the seven-inch screen, Apple Car Play and Android Auto, your favorite apps are just a touch away. In fact, you can request Alexa to warm your Wrangler up while you’re still in the house.

The upgraded safety features that come standard on the Willys include the back-up camera and a rear park assist system. It’s also featured with blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high-beam headlamps.

What makes the Willys different?

With the off-road capabilities borrowed from the Rubicon, like the shocks and rock rails, and adding heavy-duty brakes, 32-inch tires, and limited-slip rear differential is more than nostalgic styling. Each element allows the 2020 Willys to cross new terrain. In fact, the Mud-Terrain tires feature a more aggressive tread than the standard rubber on the Rubicon.

The Command Trac 4WD system, complete with a two-speed transfer case and low gear ratio along with the standard 2.0-liter turbo engine with 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque provides impressive traction. Equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, it fills the gap between off-roading and rock climbing. The ground clearance on the Willys is a cool 10.9 inches compared to the Rubicon’s 10.8-inch clearance. 

A 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine comes as an option, as does the 3.0 EcoDiesel. This special edition really comes equipped with new features inside and out.

Is the 2020 special edition Jeep Wrangler Willys a good value?

Wrangler offers the Willys in a choice of 10 exterior color options, including ocean blue, granite crystal, firecracker red, and black. The two-door version starts at $33,990. The four-door Willys brings the price up to $37,490 with standard features.

It’s about $3,000 more than the Sport S model; however, with the added capabilities and special styling, the price bump seems minimal for the payoff. 

The real benefit appears between the price comparison between the more premium Rubicon, starting at $42,320 for the four-door. With a savings of approximately $5,000, the benefits are noteworthy. 

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Willys provides more than ample power, 4WD traction, and spacious ground clearance to catch the attention of the most budget-conscious shopper without feeling like you’ve compromised on features.