September 14, 2011
Haven’t you always wished that the video games you play at home could somehow translate into real-world experiences, allowing you to take out zombies, maneuver mechs, or be transported back to the weird, Wild West? Well, it seems that one lucky group of gamers will now have the chance to enjoy a little slice of their favorite game outside the home when Jeep launches their 2012 Wrangler special edition, which features a collaborative effort with the team responsible for Activision’s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3.
Of course, anyone familiar with the franchise will no doubt recall that a similar team-up took place last year, when Jeep released the limited edition Call of Duty: Black Ops Wrangler that was featured in the game of the same name. With a blacked-out body, spiffy wheels, game logos, and a whole host of Mopar add-ons, the vehicle did quite well, despite the inflated price tag (which started at about $2,000 over regular sticker price). Of course, last year’s model also benefitted from a totally redesigned interior (which will still appear in the 2012 model, plus some other extras).
The big upgrade for this year’s Wrangler model is the new engine, a 285-hp V6 from Pentastar that rests beneath an attractive domed hood (courtesy of Mopar). But lovers of the CoD franchise will not be disappointed by more minor extras, such as the many game logos located on both the inside and exterior of the vehicle, from the gauges, floor mats, head rests, and seat backs to the front panels, the spare-wheel cover, and even the fuel door. But that’s not all; Mopar also ponies up quite a package for the exterior, including bumpers, rock rails, and a fuel door in black satin, as well as an optional winch package for the front bumper.
Of course, you’ll probably want to take this Jeep off-roading, so there are some extras you’re going to like. BF Goodrich provides 32-inch Mud-Terrain tires to cover the 17-inch cast-aluminum wheels (sporting stealth and style in semi-gloss black), so you’ll have plenty of grip on mud, ice, and snow. And all models come with a removable soft-top (a Jeep hallmark) so you can feel the sun on your face, the wind in your hair, and the enemy all around you. Options provide for a removable hard top as well as a lift kit that provides for stability control (thanks once again to Mopar). And the two-speed transfer for 4-wheel drive will blow away other models like the Cherokee transfer cases.
This model will also feature a new color. Those who grew tired of the Black Ops-inspired black-out will be happy to learn that this year’s model is also available in silver and comes in both 2- and 4-door models (based on the Rubicon). While not every fan can afford to ride in style by purchasing a vehicle based on their favorite video game, everyone can have a crack at commandeering the car in question. The special edition Wrangler will not only be in showrooms (test drive?) come November, it will also be available for in-game missions, meaning most gamers can try it out virtually, from the comfort of their own homes.
