2026 Easter Jeep Safari Concepts: The XJ Pioneer Restomod and V8 Wrangler ‘Anvil’ Take Center Stage

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      The Easter Jeep Safari has been held for 60 years, showcasing some of the most impressive factory concepts unveiled at the Moab come-and-crawl event. The Jeep Chief from 2015 and the Quicksand hot rod from 2017 particularly stand out in my memory. Each year, Jeep aims to outdo itself with a new lineup of custom creations that set a high standard. For 2026, Jeep’s offerings include a homage to the XJ Cherokee and a refreshed Wrangler powered by a 392 V8 engine. Will these meet the lofty expectations?

      The decision is yours. One way or another, it won’t be long before I reveal my personal favorite.

      **Jeep Wrangler Anvil 715 Concept**

      Among the builds for the 2026 Easter Jeep Safari, this one is undoubtedly the most intense. It features the only 392 Hemi V8, generating approximately 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. An onboard air system with quick-disconnect fittings allows for quick adjustments to varying terrains, and steel front and rear bumpers offer protection if you miscalculate a climb or descent.

      Jeep claims that the redesigned front end is inspired by the 1960s SJ model, which I find appealing. A staggering amount of auxiliary lighting ensures it retains a modern look, along with the large screen displaying Trails Offroad mapping inside. It’s noteworthy that Jeep opted for this instead of the standard infotainment screen, but it undeniably improves navigation visibility.

      Notably, the top is fixed and cannot be removed. It feels almost sacrilegious, yet many classic Jeeps, including the SJ, had a permanent roof.

      **Jeep Wrangler Buzzcut Concept**

      On the flip side, we have the Buzzcut concept, a vibrant two-door model in Vitamin C orange. Jeep reduced the roofline by two inches and added 37-inch tires for enhanced clearance. Initially, the fastback design surprised me, but the more I observe it, the more I appreciate it.

      The robust front bumper includes a Warn winch and 7-inch TYRI lights, complemented by 5-inch A-pillar pods and three 12-inch LED bars on top. Also featured are a snorkel, tailgate reinforcements for the large spare tire, and a neatly integrated handle on the C-pillar for accessing roof storage. What you might only notice upon deployment is the AMP Research power bumper step at the rear.

      Inside, the striking orange-and-black contrast continues. The Katzkin seats feature accent stitching, and the seatbelts are orange—very nice! Jeep has also replaced the rear seats with a Diabolical Slipstream security enclosure that includes locking drawers and MOLLE panels.

      Traditionalists might be displeased to find a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine under the hood, which I understand. However, it still offers more torque than the Pentastar V6.

      **Jeep Grand Wagoneer Commander Concept**

      If any of these concepts were to hit production immediately, it would be the Grand Wagoneer Commander. Jeep equipped it with 35-inch Nitto Recon Grapplers mounted on 20-inch Raceline wheels, and added underbody protection, making it resemble more of an off-road upgrade package rather than a revolutionary redesign. Surprisingly, the interior remains stock.

      One detail easily missed in photos is the vinyl side graphics. Instead of the classic Grand Wagoneer wood grain, Jeep chose a topographical design that extends from the front to the rear fenders, cleverly blending traditional and modern overlanding elements.

      **Jeep Wrangler Laredo Concept**

      “Laredo” is a phrase familiar in the Jeep community, and in Spanish, it refers to a sandy, rocky location. (If that’s incorrect, please forgive me—I relied on Google Translate.) Regardless, this concept pays tribute to the American Southwest with a retro white-and-tan two-tone color scheme and a fantastic interior reminiscent of a saddle blanket.

      The roof is a manual Sky Slider model, which feels much more authentic than a bland push-button option. The theme of analog continues throughout this build with a six-speed manual transmission paired with a 3.6-liter V6 engine. It exudes a charming old-school vibe, along with 17-inch slotted mag wheels fitted with BF Goodrich KM3 37s.

      The half-doors really enhance the design as well.

      **Jeep XJ Pioneer Concept**

      Finally, we have the standout of the selection: a 1984 Jeep Cherokee XJ. Staying true to the timeless principle of “Keep It Simple Stupid,” the Jeep team kept modifications minimal. It retains the classic XJ appearance, with just subtle enhancements that require a keen eye to notice.

      The build includes a two-inch suspension lift paired with 33-inch BF