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Jeep's February Drop is its Most Affordable HEMI Wrangler Yet, the 2026 Wrangler Willys 392

Jeep appears to have learned its lesson about Wranglers being too expensive. The 2026 Wrangler Willys 392 is about 30 grand cheaper than some previous HEMI models.
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Author: Mary Conway

Jeep’s latest offering in its Twelve 4 Twelve celebration will thrill off-roaders who want true HEMI power at a more affordable price. It may anger some people who bought the 2024 Jeep Wrangler 392 Final Edition because the 2026 version is $30,000 cheaper. Of course, the 2026 Wrangler Willys 392 doesn’t have all of the upgrades and luxury appointments of the Final Edition, but most Wrangler buyers don’t care. In fact, many have complained about too much technology being forced on them as the prices climbed higher and higher. Many Wrangler buyers just want a vehicle that they can hit the trails and have fun with. It appears that the 2026 Wrangler Willys 392 is exactly that vehicle. 

“Our Wrangler Willys has always represented the purest expression of Jeep capability,” said Bob Broderdorf, Jeep CEO. “Our community has been clear, they want a Wrangler that returns to a more classic, back‑to‑basics formula, paired with the unmistakable power of a V-8. The Wrangler Willys 392 is our answer, building on our commitment to expand V-8 availability across the Wrangler lineup. It delivers the heritage simplicity people love, the HEMI performance they’ve been asking for and the kind of value that makes this Jeep more accessible than ever. It celebrates everything that built this brand while pushing Jeep excitement into its next era.”

Twelve 4 Twelve Jeep Wrangler Willys

Don’t get me wrong, the latest limited-edition still has lots of modern technology. It also has the 6.4 liter HEMI V-8 that many loyalists love. The 6.4 liter HEMI has 470 horsepower and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. It also has some of the Willys inspired design that buyers want. Willys models often are a little less expensive and have a little less equipment. The Willys 392 also is debuting a new Jeep color called Goldilocks. 

Jeep says this is the most advanced off-road powertrain ever offered on a Willys model. A two-mode dual exhaust system enhances performance. It allows drivers to select between a subdued tone or a louder, distinctive, performance-oriented exhaust note.

The 2026 Wrangler Willys 392 features include:

  • 35-inch BF Goodrich KO2 tires on 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels (11.1 inches of ground clearance)
  • Tru-Lok electronic locking rear differential
  • Selec-Trac full-time transfer case
  • Third generation Dana 44 heavy-duty solid front and full-float rear axles
  • 4.56 axle ratio
  • Rock rails
  • Winch capable steel front bumper
  • Steel rear bumper
  • Cold air intake hood

The 2026 Wrangler Willys 392 also has Willys hood decals and heritage 4WD rear graphics, LED exterior lighting and Nappa leather heated/power front seats. It comes with an Alpine nine-speaker premium audio system and a 12.3-inch touchscreen radio with navigation. The Trailer Tow Package is also included which is often popular for off-roaders hauling ATVs or jet-skis. 

HEMI is Back in a Big Way

2026 Jeep Moab 392

This is the second Twelve 4 Twelve limited-edition featuring a HEMI 392. The 2026 Jeep Wrangler Moab 392 was the very first of the twelve new Wrangler editions designed to draw buyers back to the brand and reinvigorate sales. The 2026 Wrangler 392 is almost exactly $20,000 dollars cheaper than the 2025 model. The head of Jeep is using phrases like “no frills” and “back to basics” to describe the more affordable HEMI-powered Moab Wranglers. The 2026 Jeep Wrangler Moab 392 has a starting MSRP of $79,995, plus $1,995 destination charge.

The 2026 Jeep Wrangler Willys 392 is even more affordable. It has a starting price of $69,995, plus $1,995 destination charge.

Jeep’s Other Twelve 4 Twelve Special Editions

2026 Jeep Whitecap

Jeep’s second special edition is throwing it all the way back to 1941 with special detailing honoring the classic CJ-Universal and its iconic Arctic White top. The 2026 Jeep Wrangler Whitecap has a white painted hardtop and grille making it look retro. The special edition is only available on the Sahara and Rubicon trims, so while it looks old-school, it will have the most modern off-road equipment.

2026 Jeep 85th Anniversary Edition

Jeep’s third special edition honors 85 years of off-road leadership. The 85th Anniversary Edition Wrangler harkens back to some earlier Jeep Americana with plaid upholstery and other retro design touches.

Clearly, Jeep is listening to buyers and equipping the limited-editions with what potential buyers want. While technology is important, the Wrangler legacy is built on having the capability to go anywhere. 

Jeep Photo

Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin.

Follow Mary Conway at @MaryConwayMedia and send her car news tips for future stories. 

 

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