The 2026 Jeep Wrangler has earned top honors in the J.D. Power 2026 U.S. ALG Residual Value Awards, securing the highest projected residual value in the Compact SUV segment over a three-year period of ownership. This recognition solidifies the latest Wrangler—described as the most technologically advanced version ever—as a standout choice for buyers focused on long-term value, not just upfront capability.
J.D. Power’s ALG Residual Value Awards are widely regarded as a key industry barometer, signaling which models are expected to retain the greatest percentage of their original manufacturer’s suggested retail price over time. For consumers, a strong residual value rating can translate into lower depreciation, potentially more favorable lease terms, and greater confidence when it comes time to trade in or sell.
Jeff Kommor, head of U.S. retail sales, emphasized that the Wrangler’s latest accolade reflects the strength of the nameplate in a highly competitive market. He pointed to capability, authenticity, and long‑term value as core reasons customers continue to select the Wrangler, adding that the new award reaffirms its status as the benchmark in the compact utility segment.
Off-Road Capability and Performance Highlights
Jeep continues to position the 2026 Wrangler as a reference point for factory off-road performance, especially in Rubicon trim. The Wrangler Rubicon delivers a best-in-class available 100:1 crawl ratio, engineered for precise low-speed control on technical terrain such as rock gardens and steep ascents. It also offers best-in-class available 5,000‑lb towing capacity, enabling owners to tow small campers, trailers, or recreational equipment without leaving the trail-focused ethos behind.
Further underlining its off-road credentials, the four-door Wrangler delivers a best-in-class available approach angle, allowing the vehicle to take on taller obstacles with reduced risk of front-end contact. Jeep also equips the Wrangler with segment-exclusive integrated off-road trail guides, blending navigation and trail information into the vehicle’s technology suite to support enthusiasts on remote routes.
These hardware and software features work together to differentiate the Wrangler from more road-biased compact SUVs. By pairing advanced driveline engineering with digital tools designed specifically for exploration, Jeep aims to appeal to both long-time off-road purists and newer buyers looking to expand their adventures beyond paved roads.
New Year, New Wrangler Special Editions
Jeep is leveraging the momentum of the residual value award as it rolls out a series of 2026 Wrangler variants, headlined by the new Wrangler Moab 392. This HEMI‑powered model is now available to order in all 50 states, including traditionally stricter markets such as California, Massachusetts, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and Washington. The Moab 392 targets customers seeking a blend of V8 performance, trail capability, and factory-backed exclusivity within the Wrangler family.
The brand has also launched its “Twelve 4 Twelve” campaign, a yearlong rollout of monthly Wrangler “buzz models” celebrating 85 years of Jeep off-road heritage. Recent examples include the 2026 Wrangler Whitecap and the 2026 Wrangler 85th Anniversary editions, with additional special models scheduled throughout the year to maintain showroom interest and offer more tailored configurations to enthusiasts.
These limited and special editions are designed not only to commemorate key milestones for the Jeep brand but also to keep the Wrangler lineup fresh. By offering distinctive styling cues, feature combinations, and in some cases performance upgrades, Jeep is aiming to strengthen the Wrangler’s appeal across a broad spectrum of buyers while reinforcing its long-term desirability.
Heritage-Inspired Wrangler Willys ’41
As part of the 2026 lineup strategy, Jeep has introduced the limited-edition Wrangler Willys ’41, a model that pays direct tribute to the original WWII military Jeep. The Willys ’41 can be equipped with a standard 2.0‑liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 270 horsepower paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, or an available 3.6‑liter Pentastar V‑6 delivering 285 horsepower with the same eight-speed automatic. This dual‑powertrain approach gives buyers a choice between a modern turbocharged setup and the well-known naturally aspirated V‑6.
The Willys ’41 stands out visually with exclusive ‘41 military olive drab‑style paint and matching wheels, complemented by tan interior accents that evoke the utilitarian look of early Jeep vehicles. Underneath the heritage-inspired finishes are functional upgrades, including a rear axle locker, 33‑inch tires, and steel bumpers, all aimed at improving trail readiness straight from the factory.[media.
Modern technology rounds out the Willys ’41 package, helping bridge the gap between its nostalgic appearance and current-day expectations for connectivity, comfort, and safety. In doing so, Jeep positions the model as both a rolling tribute to the brand’s origins and a fully capable off-roader suitable for today’s drivers.
Jeep Brand: Eighty-Five Years of SUV Leadership
The Wrangler’s latest recognition arrives as Jeep approaches 85 years as a global leader in SUVs, a legacy built on off-road capability, advanced technology, and everyday versatility. The brand continues to expand its portfolio with vehicles powered by internal combustion engines, hybrid systems, and all-electric drivetrains, signaling a commitment to innovation across multiple propulsion technologies.
Jeep frames its identity around four key pillars: freedom, adventure, authenticity, and passion. Those values underpin the development of models like the 2026 Wrangler, which is engineered to tackle rugged terrain while still delivering the refinement and connectivity demanded by modern drivers.
By combining strong residual values with a steady cadence of new and special-edition products, Jeep aims to maintain the Wrangler’s position as a benchmark compact utility vehicle in both capability and ownership experience. The brand continues to share news, product updates, and video content through its blog, media site, and social channels, keeping its community informed and engaged as it enters its next chapter of off-road innovation.