Jeep might revive its legendary Willys as a compact electric 4×4.
Jeep might bring back one of its most iconic models from history. At the 2026 Auto Show, the American brand mentioned the possibility of developing a small electric vehicle inspired by the legendary Willys. This remains a very vague idea, but it could allow Jeep to enter a new market segment. Perhaps even as a cousin to the future Citroën 2 CV?
A small electric Jeep inspired by the Willys?
JEEP has no intention of settling for its current SUVs. Present at the Paris Motor Show, the manufacturer unveiled the outlines of its European strategy through 2030, as well as some ideas for the following decade. Among them is a particularly interesting concept: compact, electric vehicles inspired by the brand’s golden era. With a reference that is no coincidence at all—the famous Willys. Does that ring a bell?
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For context, this military vehicle that appeared during World War II is the origin of the Jeep identity. With its compact size, instantly recognizable silhouette, and off-road capabilities, it still represents a certain vision of automotive freedom today. Nearly 90 years after its introduction, this concept could inspire a new generation of vehicles. Jeep has mentioned a possible “compact and electric” vehicle, without specifying its exact powertrain.
The manufacturer also does not confirm the development of a production model. At this stage, it is merely a reflection on possible directions for the brand after 2030. But the mere fact of publicly discussing this possibility shows that Jeep is not ruling out vehicles smaller than those in its current lineup.
A cousin to the future Citroën 2 CV?
This consideration comes at a particular time. Within Stellantis Group, several brands are seeking to develop more affordable electric vehicles with dimensions and features suited for everyday commuting. Citroën has notably announced the return of its iconic 2 CV in a modern, 100% electric version. Could the idea of a simplified, cheaper-to-produce small electric car also serve Jeep’s ambitions?
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On paper, some combinations seem feasible. Both brands belong to the same group and could benefit from shared components and technical solutions. They might even produce vehicles in the same factory. A small Jeep Willys could thus adopt certain principles of a future affordable electric car while retaining its distinctive body design and positioning.
Caution is still needed, however. No platform sharing between a potential electric Willys and the future 2 CV has been officially announced, despite Xavier Peugeot, head of Jeep Europe, suggesting it himself. Jeep has not provided any details on dimensions, technical specifications, or a release timeline for such a vehicle. Moreover, another question arises: how can Jeep preserve its off-road DNA in a small electric car designed primarily for accessibility? The brand insists that its future models maintain the qualities that have built its reputation.
The Renegade will return by 2030
While waiting for a possible revival of the Willys, Jeep has confirmed a much more tangible new arrival: the return of the Renegade. Having disappeared from several European markets, this compact SUV will return with a new generation by 2030. This move is significant for the manufacturer. Since its launch in 2014, over 610,000 units of the Renegade have been sold in Europe. Its return is intended to help Jeep strengthen its position in a highly competitive urban SUV market.
The manufacturer has not yet detailed the powertrains for this next generation. It does confirm, however, its intention to continue offering various types of powertrains depending on the models and customers’ needs. The future Renegade will fit into an European lineup that could include up to six models by 2030. Jeep also aims to maintain a four-wheel-drive option for each model.