Chrysler introduces the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Freedom Edition

The Jeep Wrangler began its life almost 70 years ago (then known as the Willys CJ) having been based on the military-use WIllys MB and it was with that army background t in mind that the Chrysler Group has put together the new Jeep Wrangler Freedom Edition for the 2012 model year.

The 2012 Jeep Wrangler Freedom Edition is available on both the standard 2-door Wrangler or the 4-door Wrangler Unlimited and this new patriotic package is based on the top-selling Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited Sport trimline. Like all other 2012 Wranglers, the new Freedom Edition is powered by the 3.6L Pentastar V6 packing 285 horsepower and 260lb-ft of torque with this power channeled to all four wheels via a standard 6-speed manual transmission.

The 2012 Wrangler Freedom Edition is offered in Deep Cherry Red and Bright White (both of which are offered on other Wrangler models) but specific to the Freedom Edition is a new dark blue paint option appropriately named True Blue. The Freedom Edition then adds Mineral Gray painted 17 inch aluminum wheels similar to those found on the Wrangler Rubicon and that Mineral Gray theme is mirrored in the grille, the front bumper, the rear bumper and the unique star-in-circle military style decals on the hood and on the passenger’s side rear corner. The exterior upgrades are capped off by a set up unique military style badges on the fenders that read “Oscar Mike” (military slang for “on the move”), a Mopar fuel filler door, a set of black side step bars, black taillight guards and a Sunrider soft top with tinted rear windows in addition to the standard Wrangler hard top.

Inside, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Freedom Edition sports black seats that offer leather bolsters and a cloth center section with a unique pattern. On the seat backs is an embroidered star-in-circle design in silver with more silver accents on the leather wrapper steering wheel, the door panels, the seats and the central armrest. There are also unique “Quick Silver” accents on the front passenger grab handle, the door-mounted handles and the vent rings. Finally, Chrysler adds Satin Chrome trim on the spokes of the steering wheel and on the Mopar brand slush mats. The Wrangler Freedom Edition also includes power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, audio controls on the steering wheel, UConnect voice controls and the connectivity group – which adds a remote USB port and an electric vehicle information center.

"The Jeep brand has a long, renowned history that began with its significant presence and success within the U.S. military," said Mike Manley, President and CEOof the Jeep Brand. "Jeep – and particularly the Wrangler – is the icon for capability and durability, and is a true symbol of American freedom. The new Jeep Wrangler Freedom Edition is created in honor of Jeep's one-of-a-kind history, and as a tribute to all of the brave men and women who have and continue to serve in the U.S. military.”

The 2012 Jeep Wrangler Freedom Edition carries an MSRP of $28,165 while the larger Wrangler Unlimited Freedom Edition starts at $30,670. From each sale of a Freedom Edition Wrangler or Wrangler Unlimited, the Chrysler Group will donate $250 to two military charity groups – the Fisher House Foundation and the I Support Foundation. Fisher House provides a home away from home for family members of military members who are hospitalized while dealing with an illness or injury. The I Support Foundation provides jobs and healthcare services to soldiers returning home – while also providing grants to 40 other military related charities.

"It is with both pride in our history and gratitude to all those who have served that we have chosen to donate $250 from each Jeep Wrangler Freedom Edition to be divided between these important charitable organizations that benefit current and returning military members," said Jeep CEO Manley.