Jeep mulls Willys revival as it plots affordable EV for after 2030

Jeep is considering a revival of its legendary Willys MB military off-roader to help combat new Chinese competition in Europe. Speaking at the Paris motor show, new Jeep chief Xavier Peugeot identified the Willys as a key future focus for the American brand. While plans remain at an early stage with no concrete launch date confirmed, Peugeot indicated that the project is targeted for after the completion of Jeep’s current ‘Road to 2030’ strategy, with ideas around the Willys to be confirmed by the turn of the decade.

Peugeot highlighted key attributes for the potential model, including BEV affordability — pointing to a purely electric powertrain — along with compactness and 4×4-compatibility, ensuring every model in the future range remains 4×4-compatible. A teaser image shows a short, boxy silhouette with bluff ends and a tailgate-mounted spare wheel, reminiscent of the Suzuki Jimny. The Willys project could utilize a new architecture developed around the EU’s planned ‘E-car’ regulations, aligning with similar affordable EV efforts from Stellantis sibling brands Citroën and Fiat.

Before the Willys decision, Jeep will overhaul its European line-up, introducing up to six new models by 2030 to expand European market coverage from around 50% to 90%. The renewed line-up will be spearheaded by the second-generation Renegade, which will use the STLA One platform shared with the Peugeot 208, Vauxhall Corsa, and DS N°3. The original Renegade achieved 610,000 sales since its 2014 launch and was retired in Europe in 2025; the new iteration will be on the road by 2030, slotting between the 4.1m-long Avenger and 4.5m-long Compass. Additionally, the Recon off-roader — an electric Wrangler — launches in Europe next year, though it will not be offered in the UK due to a lack of right-hand drive conversion plans. Jeep will also launch a second D-segment SUV next year, likely a new Cherokee or an adjacent model.