jeepin.jason

Turns out those spy photos of the leaf-sprung JKs with Dana60 rear ends were indeed of test mules for Jeep’s new military hopeful. But of course we all already knew that. But, to quell any lingering doubt, the fine folks at Chrysler LLC decided to finally put out an official press release on the vehicle, dubbed the J8.

Unfortunately I don’t really expect to see these heavy-duty rigs state-side though, given that they’re RHD, use a non-emissions-compliant diesel motor, and are going to be built in Egypt. Too bad really, and somewhat ironic that the Jeep, one of the most iconic US military vehicles, is no longer used by the US military but is used by the military of other countries.

The J8 is based off the new Jeep JK Wrangler Unlimited. Highlights include a beefed up frame for increased payload capacity, leaf-sprung rear suspension, 1-ton Dana 60 rear axle, D44 front axle, 2.8L CRD motor, and a short ‘snorkel’ intake protruding from the hood. It’ll be available in regular 4-door trim or as a long-wheelbase 2-door model (shown above), ala the popular JT concept that Jeep debuted in Moab at EJS 2007.

Peep the complete press release and photos here.

You can check out full high-res photos on my flickr account.