The History of Jeep’s Off-Road Legacy
I’ve always been fascinated by the legacy that Jeep has bestowed on the industry, being the only brand who consistently has people referring to their flagship Wrangler model as just a “Jeep,” or even co-opting calling other brand’s models as “Jeep” with how distinct the Wrangler design has permeated modern culture. Still, Jeep’s history and story are a lot more nuanced than that, with almost 85 years of hard work and performance beginning with World War II. What better example to speak to the brand’s off-road legacy than having been built for the U.S. Army? That’s the story of Jeep, which I’ll invite you into, just a slice of it to understand how Jeep remains an off-road force.
The Birth of Jeep in WWII & Its Name Origins
It’s true, the first Jeep model as we know it today, was at its inception created by Willys-Overland, which eventually became the Jeep we know now. A request came from the U.S. Army for a vehicle that could stand up and perform against the rigours of war, putting forth a number of criteria to be met from a variety of manufacturers to meet these standards. The Willys Quad was designed and delivered for the army in November of 1940. Further, it would be tinkered with and updated in the MA and MB versions, and quickly became referred to as “Jeep.” While no true explanation can be settled on for how the name came to be, maybe from the Eugene the Jeep character from Popeye’s, or maybe from how the military shortens General Purpose to GP. However, it came to be, Willys seized the iconic name, registering it after the war, and taking their newfound prowess for off-road utility to make vehicles that could perform on all terrains, especially for tough work on the farm.
Jeep Wrangler: The Arrival of an Icon
Now that you know how “Jeep” came to be, let’s take a look at the exact vehicle you think of now when you hear “Jeep.” I bet it was the Wrangler, wasn’t it? While saying “Jeep” technically could mean any of a Grand Cherokee, Gladiator, Compass, Wagoneer or more in the brand’s broad lineup, let’s be honest and know you’re probably thinking of the iconic Wrangler, THE SUV design that screams off-road prowess.
The first Wrangler was actually intro’d in 1986, taking many features of the classic military-esque design from the 1940s, like its body-on-frame style and axle design. This off-road titan has seen four generations since, let’s go through them. The Wrangler YJ existed until 1995, a two-door model that, perhaps, is most well-known for its unique square headlights. The Wrangler TJ existed between 1996 and 1997, inviting a coil-spring suspension and an Unlimited model. The Wrangler JK debuted in 2006 with an entirely new design, as well as introducing the more modern 4-door Unlimited model. Finally, we have the Wrangler JL, bringing forth the new-age of Wrangler design, including new powertrains and a drive toward hybrid and electric models. No vehicle incites immediate dreams of conquering rough terrain like the Wrangler, a reputation it has thoughtfully developed over decades, doing just that.
Jeep Trail Rated & Off-Road System Prowess Into The Future
What other brand has a certification that literally demonstrates its expertise off-road? Jeep does. The Trail Rated certification covered five different categories that the vehicle must hit to be rated such a superior Jeep model: Traction, ground clearance, maneuverability, articulation and water fording. Not only that, but the litany of Jeep 4×4 systems speaks to the many abilities and confidence that every model bestows for superb traction, on and off road. 4×4 systems include Rock-Trac, Command-Trac, Selec-Trac, Quadra-Drive, Quadra-Trac, Active Drive and more. From the Wrangler to the Gladiator to the Grand Cherokee and beyond, you’ll always be off road with the best of the best.
Find Your Next Jeep at Cars.ca
That’s the beauty of a Jeep, on road or off road, it transitions beautifully to either. But, c’mon, a Jeep is made to push the limits and explore the off-beaten path, so let Cars.ca introduce you to your next all-terrain master. Explore both our new and used inventory now, along with the latest can’t miss deals.
