Jeep unleashes special edition of Wrangler

Jeep is stretching out consumer interest in the outgoing JK Wrangler by offering a number of special limited-edition packages over the next year while consumers await the arrival of the redesigned JL Wrangler in the second half of 2017.

The first two limited runs — the 2017 Wrangler Sport Freedom edition and 2017 Wrangler Sahara Winter edition — were detailed to dealers in their November ordering books, Autonews said.

Both go on sale in December, with the Freedom edition running only until February, and the Winter edition scheduled to run until May, according to dealer ordering information seen by Automotive News.

The moves follow Jeep’s tradition of using limited-edition models to keep demand for the Wrangler strong. Wrangler sales, particularly in the U.S. are on the decline for the first time as consumers await what promises to be a more fuel-efficient but still-capable replacement for the off-roader.

The Wrangler Sport Freedom edition will come with Freedom star hood and rear fender decals, an American flag driver side front fender decal and other interior and exterior badging. It will also feature 18-inch Sahara mid-gloss granite crystal wheels, a new rear heavy-duty cast differential cover, black fuel filter cover and taillamp guards.

The Wrangler Sahara Winter edition features new LED headlamps and fog lamps, standard remote start (with the automatic transmission), premium off-road rock rails and a standard hard top, with optional body coloring. It comes adorned with hood, driver side fender and rear fender decals, along with other special badging and accents.Later in 2017, Jeep plans to offer other limited-run editions. However, their detailed specifications have yet to be announced