Happy birthday, Jeep! Automaker celebrates its 75th with a squad of special editions

By Andrew Hard Published January 6, 2016

If we were to look back through the annals of American automotive history, a few names would undoubtedly stand out: Model T. Bel Air. Corvette. GT40. Mustang. But few nameplates have a bigger place in world history than the iconic Jeep.

The Jeep began its life 75 years ago, just months before the United States officially entered World War II. America knew it was a matter of time before it was forced into the global conflict, so in anticipation, the government solicited domestic automobile manufacturers to build a light, four-wheel drive workhorse to replace the Army’s aging fleet. American Bantam Car Company initially received the bid and created a prototype, but it was a small, struggling company. Eventually, Ford and Willys-Overland Motors were awarded production contracts (and Bantam’s blueprints), and built the GPW and MB, respectively. Later on, the 4x4s became known as U.S. Army Jeeps, and the rest is history.

2016 Jeep 75th Anniversary edition full lineup — 2016 Jeep 75th Anniversary edition full lineup Image used with permission by copyright holder

In honor of the vehicle’s birthday, Jeep has debuted a full lineup of 75th Anniversary models that extend over the automaker’s entire range. The unique Patriots, Renegades, Compasses, Wranglers, Cherokees, and Grand Cherokees benefit from a variety of exclusive green finishes (Sarge Green, Recon Green, or Jungle Green), as well as low gloss bronze wheels, bronze and orange exterior accents, unique interiors and upgraded seats. All models feature 75th Anniversary badging and will be available in the first quarter of 2016.

“Jeep vehicles have defined the authentic SUV and set the benchmark for off-road capability and freedom since they were first produced in 1941,” said Mike Manley, Head of the Jeep brand. “Today, Jeep SUVs continue to deliver 4×4 leadership, as well as fuel efficiency, world-class craftsmanship and premium on-road dynamics.

“In honor of the brand’s 75th anniversary,” he continued, “We have created eye-catching, special-edition models of each vehicle in our lineup that celebrate the unparalleled history of the legendary Jeep brand.”

For more information and a price breakdown of the 75th Anniversary models, click here.

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Former Digital Trends Contributor

Andrew first started writing in middle school and hasn't put the pen down since. Whether it's technology, music, sports, or…

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Jeep just pulled the wraps off the all-new Compass EV, and while it’s an exciting leap into the electric future, there's a catch—it might not make it to the U.S. anytime soon.
This is a brand new electric version of the Jeep Compass, and being built on Stellantis' STLA platform—the same architecture underpinning models like the Peugeot E-3008 and E-5008—it looks much slicker and packs a lot more inside than previous versions of the Compass.
Let’s start with what’s cool: the new Compass EV is packing up to 404 miles of range on a single charge, a 74 kWh battery, and fast-charging that gets you from 20% to 80% in about 30 minutes. Not bad for a compact SUV with Jeep's badge on the nose.
There are two versions: a front-wheel-drive model with 213 horsepower and a beefier all-wheel-drive version with 375 horsepower. That AWD setup isn’t just for looks—it can handle 20% inclines even without front traction, and comes with extra ground clearance and better off-road angles. In short, it’s still a Jeep.
The design's been refreshed too, and inside you’ll find the kind of tech and comfort you’d expect in a modern EV—sleek, smart, and ready for both city streets and dirt trails.
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Plans to build it in Canada were recently put on hold, with production now delayed until at least early 2026. Some of that might have to do with possible U.S. tariffs on Canadian and Mexican vehicles—adding a layer of uncertainty to the whole rollout.
According to Kelley Blue Book, a Stellantis spokesperson confirmed that the company has “temporarily paused work on the next-generation Jeep Compass, including activities at” the Canadian plant that was originally meant to build the model. They added that Stellantis is “reassessing its product strategy in North America” to better match customer needs and demand for different powertrain options.
So while Europe and other markets are gearing up to get the Compass EV soon, American drivers might be left waiting—or miss out entirely.
That’s a shame, because on paper, this electric Jeep hits a lot of sweet spots. Let’s just hope it finds a way over here.