Torque Staff Report
Welcome to the Seven Slot Dispatch, our weekly aggregation of Jeep news and events from around the automotive landscape. Every week, we’ll be shifting into low range to bring you the latest news, gear drops, and industry moves shaping the Jeep world.
Whether it's fresh concept news from Moab, Utah, new initiatives from Stellantis, a dive into Jeep’s latest model, or a closer look at the community that's been living the Jeep life for decades, you'll find it all here — served up with the same grit and passion that built the brand itself.
Here’s the latest news and information.
Jeep Unveils Limited-Run Wrangler Commando, Blending Military Heritage With Modern Capability
Jeep has recently revealed the Wrangler Commando, a limited-run special edition that leans heavily into the brand’s military roots while pairing that heritage with modern Wrangler capability. Inspired by classic military-spec Jeeps, the Wrangler Commando features a unique exterior appearance package highlighted by a retro olive-drab–inspired paint finish, heritage badging, and exclusive trim details that set it apart from standard Wrangler models. The design pays homage to Jeep’s long history of service vehicles while still appealing to enthusiasts looking for something distinctive and collectible.
Underneath the heritage styling, the Wrangler Commando retains the same proven off-road foundation Wrangler owners expect. Based on a well-equipped trim level, it includes Jeep’s 4x4 hardware, solid axles, and trail-ready suspension, ensuring the Commando is more than just a cosmetic package. The interior continues the theme with subtle military-inspired accents and durable materials designed to balance ruggedness with everyday usability.
As a limited-production model, the Wrangler Commando is aimed squarely at collectors and longtime Jeep fans who appreciate special editions tied to the brand’s past. While availability will be restricted and pricing reflects its exclusive nature, the Commando reinforces Jeep’s ongoing strategy of celebrating its heritage through thoughtfully executed, enthusiast-focused models that stand out both on the trail and at events.
2026 Jeep Wrangler Lets You Remove Doors Without Tools for Easier Off-Road Freedom
Jeep is making one of its most iconic features even more user-friendly for the 2026 Wrangler by redesigning the doors so they can be removed without needing tools. Previous Wrangler models required owners to use Torx bits and screwdrivers to detach upper and lower hinge pin screws and check arm screws before lifting the doors off. For 2026, Jeep has simplified the process with quick-release latch mechanisms and removable hinge pins, allowing owners to take off their doors faster and more easily than ever before — embracing the open-air driving experience the brand is known for.
While you still need to disconnect wiring harnesses for power windows and other electrical features, the new system eliminates much of the hassle that used to come with door removal by ditching traditional fasteners in favor of intuitive levers or pins. This design change is poised to make doorless driving more accessible for Wrangler enthusiasts, letting them spend less time in the driveway and more time enjoying trails, scenic drives, and warm-weather adventures. The tool kit isn’t going away entirely, it will still be useful for other tasks like hardtop removal, but the streamlined door removal marks a notable convenience upgrade for the 2026 model year.
Jeep Recalls Nearly 113,000 Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe SUVs Over Engine Sand Contamination Risk
Stellantis has issued a major safety recall affecting nearly 113,000 Jeep Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid SUVs after federal safety regulators determined that some engines may contain sand contamination left over from the casting process. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), engines built between mid-2023 and early 2025 may have had sand debris trapped inside the block, which can circulate through internal parts and cause premature wear, a loss of propulsion, or even catastrophic engine failure and under-hood fires. Federal documents show the recall includes about 76,019 Wrangler 4xe and 36,840 Grand Cherokee 4xe vehicles produced during the affected period, and a remedy is still under development.
Owners of the recalled vehicles have been advised to check their VINs on the NHTSA recall website and are being urged to park outside and avoid driving the vehicle until a permanent fix is available. Reports associated with the recall include dozens of warranty claims, customer assistance records, engine fires, and loss-of-propulsion incidents, with some drivers noting engine knocking noises or check engine warnings prior to failure. As Jeep continues to work on a long-term solution, interim owner notifications are planned for late December 2025, with full repair instructions to follow once they are finalized.
