The War Hero That Took Over the Streets

Born on the battlefields of World War II, the Jeep CJ came to life when the rugged Willys MB military jeep was transformed into a civilian vehicle after the war. Launched in 1945 by Willys-Overland, the CJ (Civilian Jeep) kept its core qualities of durability, simplicity, and 4×4 capability, quickly winning over enthusiasts and workers who needed a versatile ride for tough terrain.

The Jeep CJ didn’t just make off-road vehicles popular for everyday use; it created a lifestyle built around adventure and freedom. Its functional design and unmatched capability made it a forerunner to modern SUVs, directly influencing the auto industry and starting a lineage that has evolved into the globally recognized Jeep models of today.

The most famous model is the Jeep CJ-5, introduced in 1954 and produced for over 30 years. The CJ-5 is especially prized for its perfect balance of compact size, 4×4 power, and versatility, making it an icon among off-roaders, collectors, and fans of the Jeep culture.