SEMA 2007 Preview: Jeep Wrangler JT
click above image to view new high-res pics of the Jeep JT
Jeep first unveiled the Wrangler JT earlier this year at the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah, and we got our first up-close look in June at Chrysler's proving ground. Jeep created the JT from a four-door Wrangler Unlimited by sealing off the space for the rear doors and inserting a five foot bed in the back. The JT is based on the same concept of the J8 military utility truck the automaker recently started building in Egypt and has a simple, no-nonsense look. The JT only has about five unique parts, and thanks to the positive response it's gotten it is being studied for production. Since it was first shown last spring, the spare tire has been moved from the bed and now hangs of the tailgate.
Click here to listen to Mark Allen discuss the design and construction of the Jeep Wrangler JT.
Gallery: Jeep JT
Gallery: Jeep Wrangler JT Concept
Jeep Wrangler JT
Designer: Mark Allen, Chief Designer – Jeep/Dodge Truck Studios
Built from the military version of the all new Jeep Wrangler, the Jeep Wrangler JT showcases just how flexible this new platform can be. Revealed at the 2007 Easter Jeep Safari in Moab [Utah], it dominated the steep climbs and descents on the slopes of the Hell's Revenge trail. Its 4x4 capability was established as it negotiated the slick hot tubs and waterfalls – at times, almost completely vertical to the ground.
Beginning with the new 116-in. wheelbase platform for the Wrangler Unlimited, the design team managed to create a very nimble, trail-savvy Jeep with a 5-ft. pickup bed and an easy-to-handle removable hardtop.
Off-road enhancements include:
3-in. suspension lift provided by Superlift
35-in. BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires
Rear bumper and tire carrier from Mopar
Front bumper from Mopar
Warn 9500ti winch
The Wrangler JT is painted Hearing Aid Beige.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 3)
STOPKADR 6:06AM (2/13/2008)
He is small for the American!!!! I am pleased more with ours UAZ!!! Russia more abruptly
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victor 1:01PM (4/29/2008)
We need a wrangler that gets 50mpg and is still jeep capable. A smaller lighter wrangler with the right turbo diesel could achieve this. If chrysler had this vehicle now, they could not make enough of them. Why don't they?????
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Shipey 10:06AM (10/26/2007)
This thing is awesome. Gimmie one with a turbo deisel and I'll be set.
Oh, and I want those crazy-plain wheels too.
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BassClef 10:23AM (10/26/2007)
That 4.2L Cummins V6 would be nice in there...
Bob 10:55AM (10/26/2007)
Amen. Turbo-diesel please!
S K 10:14AM (10/26/2007)
What does JT stand for ? Jeep truck or Justin Timberlake ? Excuse me for my ignorance!
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dan spalinger 10:21AM (10/26/2007)
Like I said when it first was shown last spring...I will buy one in a heartbeat...especially in khaki and with those simple steel wheels...
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spots 6:45PM (10/26/2007)
Same here- I like the color and the plain rims- make the whole truck just as simple and plain- all I'd want would be a turbodiesel, AC and maybe a CD player- that's all- no power accessories, no sat-nav, no carpet, no leather, none of that stuff....
BUILD IT NOW JEEP!
Mike 10:25AM (10/26/2007)
I WANT ONE RIGHT NOW, NO JOKE.
BUILD IT BUILD IT BUILD IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Resh 10:31AM (10/26/2007)
I'm not a Jeep or truck guy by any means, but this thing is awesome! It would make a great work vehicle. And I second everybody's remarks on the steel wheels... simple is good!
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snakesausage 10:40AM (10/26/2007)
I like the JT but I still prefer the Gladiator. I saw the Gladiator in person last week at the state fair auto show and it was AWSOME! Regardless of which one they will build (or both if we are lucky) they MUST offer it with a small diesel. This does not need a 6cyl, a 4-banger will do.
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Schmeltz 10:41AM (10/26/2007)
I think that building this truck is as big of a No-brainer as the 4-door Unlimited was. Even many outside of the Jeep fanbase would consider this one. It's only real competition is the Tacoma, however this would be a different animal entirily. Build it - Jeep.
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BassClef 10:47AM (10/26/2007)
Especially since the Dakota is pretty much a full-size truck these days. If Jeep sold this with a small diesel, manual transmission, 4WD (duh), and a 5,000lb towing capacity they wouldnt be able to build them fast enough. What competition would this thing even have? The Ranger and Tacoma?
Jesse 10:46AM (10/26/2007)
I'm not a Jeep or Truck guy by any means either (I own a Mazda 3 sedan for the love of god) but there is something about this Jeep that I find so incredibly appealing. If it comes with a manual and it's not too expensive I might actually consider buying it. If there's an option for a turbo diesel engine then I think I might have to buy it.
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shrique 12:03PM (10/26/2007)
(chuckle)
I have a Protege5 and I like this thing. Simple and with a nice torquey (sp) Diesel would be awesome.
Frank the Tank 10:55AM (10/26/2007)
This thing is so cool, I would definitely buy one....I hope they make a model with a removable hardtop!
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J. D. Billiford 11:15AM (10/26/2007)
>>> The Wrangler JT would make a fine, and logical, addition to the Jeep lineup. I surely hope it makes it into production.
Definitely two thumbs up on this one!
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Matt 11:05AM (10/26/2007)
BUILD IT
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pedro 11:14AM (10/26/2007)
I echo Jesse's comments! I've never been a Jeep guy, and currently own a BMW 528, but this truck is just. so. fantastic. Keep the price low and keep it simple, with a manual and turbodiesel! This truck calls to me.
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calebe 11:36AM (10/26/2007)
Build it. Until Chrysler came into the picture Jeep always had a pick up truck. Chrysler also needs to come up with a better engine. Diesel or otherwise. There are many outlets for a small diesel. There is just something deeply wrong with a Jeep sharing an engine with a minivan.IMO
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