Seven unique concepts unveiled at Jeep Easter safari
BY ROBBIE WALLIS | 21st Mar 2018
The first of the Wrangler concepts is the 4Speed, which is a stripped-out take on the new-generation two-door version, and features weight-saving measures, including the use of carbon-fibre for the wheelarch flares, hood and rear tub.
Further weight savings are achieved by removing the doors and using lightweight bodywork in the rear, which allows for the 4Speed to sit two inches higher than a stock Wrangler.
Overall vehicle length has been shortened by 22 inches while keeping the same wheelbase, increasing approach and departure angles which is also aided by the use of 35-inch BF Goodrich mud-terrain tyres.
The 4Speed is powered by Jeep’s new 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Also revealed is the Wrangler Sandstorm, inspired by Baja desert racers and featuring a modified suspension system that allows for 14 inches of travel in the front and 18 inches in the rear thanks to custom coilovers and bypass shocks.
Its tough look is enhanced by a vented carbon-fibre hood, high-clearance front and rear fender flares, modified cage with custom wheel carrier, high-clearance front and rear bumpers, integrated on-board air compressor and 17-inch beadlock rims shod in monstrous 39.5-inch BF Goodrich Krawler rubber.
Inside, the Sandstorm gains leather-trimmed front seats, low-back rear racing seats, a racing-inspired instrument cluster and 7.0-inch GPS unit.
Motivation comes courtesy of a massive 6.4-litre V8 engine from the Mopar performance catalogue, mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
Joining the Sandstorm with a bright yellow paint job is the Nacho Jeep, another two-door Wrangler that has ticked as many Mopar options as possible to serve as an example of those wanting to take their Jeep customisation to the next level.
Features include a raised hood to accommodate the cold-air intake, satin black Mopar grille, Rubicon bumper with integrated Warn winch, A-pillar and brush guard-mounted LED lights, 2.0-inch lift kit with 2.5-inch diameter aluminium body shocks, thick rock rails, heavy-duty spare tyre carrier and 17-inch beadlock rims with 37-inch BF Goodrich mud-terrains.
Inside the Nacho gets Black Katzkin leather seats with light tungsten accent stitching, while power comes from the new 2.0-litre turbo four-pot.
The Jeep Jeepster is a throwback to the original 1966 Jeepster, with its two-tone red-and-white paintwork and custom windshield that gives the Jeepster a more compact appearance.
Custom modifications include off-road LED lights mounted on the A-pillar and Rubicon steel bumper, concept storage packs mounted to the tailgate, grab handles, black fuel door, 2.0-inch lift kit with 37-inch BF Goodrich mud-terrain tyres and 17-inch beadlock rims with red accents.
Inside, the Jeepster comes with a custom roll cage with in-cabin spare tyre mount and the same Katzkin seats from the Nacho with Rubicon red Jeep grille logos, red accent stitching and instrument panel inserts.
The last Wrangler, and arguably the most conservatively styled, is the J-Wagon, a more premium vehicle designed to offer a blend of off- and on-road performance and comfort.
Beginning life as a Wrangler Sahara, the J-Wagon is painted in a conceptual Warm Neutral Grey hue with brass accents, and comes with a snorkel, custom hood latch, 5-inch LED lights, Sahara bumper, 17-inch slot-design wheels, rock rails and 35-inch BF Goodrich mud-terrain tyres.
Jeep has gone retro with a modern, tough take on an old classic – namely a 1966 Wagoneer that uses its original steel body, while the chassis and drivetrain have been uprated.
The Wagoneer Roadtrip’s wheelbase has been stretched by five inches, while a wider track, reshaped wheel wells, bumpers, rock rails and custom fender flares help to keep it to scale while giving it a subtly tough look.
Hinting at its 1960s heritage is a custom pastel green paint job offset by a while bumper and rims, and a razor grille instead of Jeep’s signature seven-slot grille.
Off-road prowess is bolstered by Dana 44 axles with front and rear diff locks, four-link suspension with coilover springs, and 17-inch hoops wrapped in 33-inch BF Goodrich muddies.
The Wagoneer’s original bench seats have been retained and trimmed in Oxblood-coloured leather, while other interior details include a wicker headliner, custom cooler and a tool box crafted from the valve cover of the Wagoneer’s original engine.
As the first 4x4 offered with an automatic transmission, the Wagoneer Roadtrip is fittingly matched with a four-speed automatic transmission and 5.7-litre V8 engine.
The last concept is the B-Ute, a take on the Renegade baby SUV that includes unique front and rear fascias and upper grille area, a hood with heat extractors, roof rack, rock rails and wider flares.
Performance upgrades include a 1.5-inch lift kit, 17-inch rims with a 30mm offset, and BF Goodrich Baja champion all-terrain tyres.
The interior features custom trimmed seats with mineral inserts, carbonite finish on the shifter, speaker and vent surrounds, piano black inserts and Mopar all-weather floor mats.
Motivation comes from the 2.4-litre Tigershark aspirated four-pot petrol engine mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Head of Jeep brand Mike Manley said the Easter safari was a great opportunity to introduce new concept ideas in front of loyal Jeep fans.
“Pushing the limit is something the Jeep brand is no stranger to and these seven new, exciting and capable concept vehicles are the latest example of that,” he said.
“Every year, we look forward to introducing new concept vehicles and ideas to our enthusiasts. The Moab Easter Jeep Safari presents a unique and perfect opportunity to collect valuable insight from our most loyal customers.”
