Jeep Gladiator Willys '41: Military Heritage Meets Modern Truck

Jeep is delving into its storied military past to inspire a new special edition pickup, the 2026 Gladiator Willys '41. While the original Willys MB is the most recognized military Jeep, this new model pays tribute to another legendary vehicle: the Kaiser Jeep M715. This formidable "5/4-ton" truck, which was based on the civilian Gladiator SJ platform of the 1960s, served as a versatile workhorse for the U.S. military. The new Gladiator '41 edition skillfully merges the rugged aesthetic of its ancestor with the advanced technology and capability of the modern truck.

This new pickup joins a growing lineup of heritage-inspired models from the brand, including the recently announced Wrangler Commando 392. It successfully captures a retro vibe while delivering the performance and comfort today's drivers expect.

Distinctive Military-Themed Styling

The 2026 Gladiator Willys '41 stands out with a unique exterior package designed to evoke the spirit of the M715. The entire body and its accompanying fenders are coated in a special '41 Green paint, setting the tone for its utilitarian-chic appearance.

Key visual and functional enhancements include:

Wheels and Tires: A set of exclusive 17-inch wheels finished in classic Olive Drab, wrapped in capable 32-inch (LT255/75R17) mud-terrain tires.
Hood and Grille: The truck borrows the performance-oriented hood from the Mojave model, which is accented with throwback decals. Protection up front is bolstered by a Mopar triple-hoop grille guard.
Body Protection: Sturdy black steel rock rails are installed to protect the truck's sides from obstacles on the trail.

A Modern Interior with a Nod to the Past

Inside the cabin, the Gladiator Willys '41 features a unique two-tone color scheme with tan seat inserts and vibrant Mantis Green cloth bolsters. For practicality, all-weather floor mats come standard to handle mud and debris. While the style is retro, the amenities are thoroughly modern. The truck is equipped with dual-zone automatic climate control, programmable auxiliary switches for accessories, and ambient interior lighting, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience.

Trail-Ready Performance and Hardware

Beneath the surface, the Willys '41 is built for serious off-road duty, not just for looks. The truck is powered by the proven 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, paired with a smooth eight-speed automatic transmission. Power is managed by the capable Command-Trac NV241 part-time 4WD system.

The most significant upgrade is a heavy-duty 240-amp alternator, replacing the standard 180-amp unit. This enhancement provides ample power for running aftermarket accessories like high-powered lights, winches, and other overlanding equipment. The drivetrain is fortified with robust components to ensure trail-rated credibility.

Axles: Front and rear Dana 44 axles provide exceptional durability.
Gearing: A 3.73:1 axle ratio offers a balance of highway efficiency and off-road torque.
Traction: An electronic-locking rear differential provides maximum grip in challenging, low-traction situations.

The 2026 Jeep Gladiator Willys '41 is now open for orders, with a starting price of $49,835. This represents a premium of approximately $2,600 over the standard Gladiator Willys model. For that price, buyers get a unique piece of Jeep heritage backed by a factory warranty and modern creature comforts—a compelling alternative to sourcing and restoring a classic M715.