Not impressed by Jeep’s recent Whitecap “buzz model” drop last month? Apparently, even Jeep thought they could do better—at least in Japan. Enter the Jeep Wrangler Snow Trace, a fresh winter-themed take on the Wrangler. What makes it stand out? For the first time, it comes with two different center caps for the wheels, letting you quickly switch up the look without any hassle.
Radical Ski-Ready Graphics Package
The most noticeable updates on the Wrangler Snow Trace are the eye-catching graphics. On the hood, you’ll find a Jeep grille design set inside a snowboard, along with three pairs of skis featuring different Jeep-themed logos. Along the sides, the Jeep snowboard graphic is shown catching some air over a jump on one side, while a skier takes flight on the opposite side—adding a playful, winter-sports vibe to the SUV.
A small but fun detail appears on the left rear window: a Yeti—not a Sasquatch—walking in front of a vintage Willys MB. Unlike the typical Jeep “Easter eggs” that are etched into the glass during manufacturing, this one is an added-on sticker.
The light blue graphics give the Jeep a cool winter vibe. They were created by Jeep’s US product team, which the Japanese team considers a pretty big deal. But this package isn’t just about stickers on a white Wrangler Sahara—it also includes white mirror caps and a hard spare tire cover, complete with matching graphics.
The Jeep Snow Trace also comes with some pretty cool wheels. Jeep Japan calls them “2-way” wheels, and at first, we thought that meant they could somehow be mounted both ways, like a reversible belt. But it’s actually much simpler—they come with two different center cap designs for two completely different looks.
One set of white steel wheels has a black center cap with chrome lug nuts. The other features a big matte-silver dog dish hubcap with a vintage Willys design. Honestly, those dog dish wheels are pretty awesome.
Stellantis Japan is only making 150 copies of the Snow Trace. Once they’re gone, that’s it… no trace left. (Sorry, we couldn’t resist the pun.)
Take A Test Drive, Get Jeep Swag
There will actually be a few “traces” left behind, because Jeep is giving buyers some fun test drive gifts. These include a Jeep- and K2 Skis-branded toque or neck warmer. If you buy the Snow Trace, you’ll also get a Jeep- and K2-branded blanket. On top of that, Jeep is giving away 10 snowmobile trips to the top of the mountain at Kawaba Ski Resort. Winners will get the chance to hit the powder at dawn—before anyone else even gets on the slopes.
This limited-edition Jeep costs 9,090,000 yen, including tax. That’s about $58,000—surprisingly, almost cheaper than a stock Sahara in the U.S.
Jeep releases a lot of special editions in Japan. Over the past three months, they’ve launched the Snow Trace, as well as the Jeep Renegade North Star, which features seats made from a new fabric that’s three times stronger than regular cloth.
The third model was a Compass called the Trail Edition, which added bold red trim to the black-and-gray bodywork. But the standout of the year might have been the Compass Black Shark. It featured a striking shark logo and sleek blacked-out trim that really made it pop.
FAQ’s
1. What is the Jeep Wrangler Snow Trace?
The Snow Trace is a special edition Jeep Wrangler created by Jeep Japan with unique winter-themed graphics, wheels, and accessories.
2. Is the Jeep Wrangler Snow Trace available in the US?
No, this edition is exclusive to Japan and is not officially sold in the United States.
3. How many Jeep Wrangler Snow Trace models will be produced?
Jeep Japan is producing only 150 copies of the Snow Trace, making it extremely limited.
4. What makes the Snow Trace different from a standard Wrangler?
It comes with custom winter-themed graphics, unique wheels with two center cap options, white mirror caps, and a hard spare tire cover with graphics.
5. What colors are the Snow Trace graphics?
The graphics are light blue, giving the Jeep a distinctive winter look.
6. What is unique about the Snow Trace wheels?
The Snow Trace features “2-way” wheels with two different center cap designs for two distinct appearances.
7. What is the purpose of the two center cap designs?
They allow the owner to change the wheel’s appearance easily, offering a more classic or modern look.
8. What is the price of the Jeep Wrangler Snow Trace in Japan?
It costs 9,090,000 yen, which is roughly $58,000 USD, including tax.
9. Are there any special accessories with the Snow Trace?
Yes, owners receive special edition gifts like Jeep & K2 skis-branded toques, neck warmers, and blankets with purchase.
10. What special experience does Jeep offer for Snow Trace buyers?
Jeep is giving away 10 snowmobile trips at Kawaba Ski Resort to winners for early-morning powder runs.
11. What vehicle is the base for the Snow Trace edition?
The base is the Jeep Wrangler Sahara, enhanced with winter-themed graphics and accessories.
12. What is the hood graphic design on the Snow Trace?
The hood features a Jeep grille inside a snowboard along with three pairs of skis with Jeep-related logos.
13. Are the graphics on the side of the Jeep Wrangler Snow Trace unique?
Yes, the side graphics show the Jeep snowboard kicking over jumps and a skier performing a trick on the opposite side.
14. What is on the left rear window of the Snow Trace?
A Yeti figure walking in front of a vintage Willys MB, a small detail not part of the usual Jeep Easter eggs.
15. What other Jeep special editions were released in Japan recently?
Alongside the Snow Trace, there was a Jeep Renegade North Star and a Jeep Compass Trail Edition and Black Shark edition.
16. What makes the Renegade North Star special?
It features seats made from a new fabric that Jeep claims is three times stronger than standard cloth.
17. What is the Compass Trail Edition?
The Compass Trail Edition has red trim added to the black and gray bodywork for a more aggressive appearance.
18. What is the Compass Black Shark edition?
This edition features a shark logo and blacked-out trim, giving it a bold and unique look.
19. What is the significance of the Snow Trace’s winter theme?
The theme emphasizes skiing and snowboarding culture in Japan, reflected in the graphics and design elements.
20. Are the Snow Trace graphics stickers or painted?
They are add-on stickers applied over the white Wrangler Sahara body.
21. Are the Snow Trace’s mirror caps unique?
Yes, they are painted white to match the vehicle’s winter theme.
22. What is special about the Snow Trace spare tire cover?
It has custom graphics that complement the Jeep’s winter-themed aesthetic.
23. Does the Snow Trace have any mechanical upgrades?
No, the Snow Trace primarily focuses on cosmetic upgrades and accessories rather than mechanical changes.
24. What kind of Jeep model is the Snow Trace based on?
It is based on the Jeep Wrangler Sahara, a mid-range trim of the Wrangler lineup.
25. Are Jeep special editions common in Japan?
Yes, Jeep Japan frequently releases limited special editions, often with unique themes and styling.
26. What is the main appeal of the Snow Trace edition?
The unique graphics, limited production, and winter-themed design make it a collector’s item.
27. Is the Snow Trace suitable for winter sports?
It is primarily a themed vehicle and is not specially modified for skiing or snowboarding activities.
28. Can the Snow Trace be legally imported to the US?
Technically yes, but it would require compliance with US regulations, making it expensive and complicated.
29. What is the significance of the vintage Willys MB in the design?
It pays homage to Jeep’s historic military vehicle roots.
30. What do the Snow Trace graphics represent?
They highlight Jeep’s winter adventure theme, showcasing snowboards, skis, and mountain imagery.
31. What is the Snow Trace’s wheel material?
The wheels are steel with customizable center caps.
32. Are the Snow Trace wheels functional in snow conditions?
Yes, they are standard Jeep wheels suitable for winter driving conditions.
33. What is the significance of “2-way wheels”?
They allow owners to switch between two visual styles without changing the wheel itself.
34. How does the Snow Trace compare to US Wranglers?
It is similar mechanically but has unique styling and accessories only offered in Japan.
35. Is the Snow Trace limited to the Sahara trim?
Yes, it is based specifically on the Wrangler Sahara model.
36. Are there any unique interior features?
No, the interior largely remains the same as a standard Sahara; most upgrades are exterior-focused.
37. Does Jeep offer warranty for the Snow Trace?
It carries the same warranty as the standard Wrangler Sahara sold in Japan.
38. What is the significance of the hood snowboard graphic?
It reinforces the winter sports theme, integrating Jeep’s iconic grille into a fun design.
39. How are the Snow Trace graphics applied?
They are adhesive vinyl stickers applied to the body and rear spare tire cover.
40. Can the Snow Trace be customized further?
Owners can add aftermarket accessories, but the 2-way wheels and graphics are standard for the edition.
41. Are Snow Trace graphics removable?
Yes, the vinyl stickers can be removed without damaging the paint.
42. What is the Snow Trace’s target market?
Jeep Japan designed it for collectors and winter sports enthusiasts who want a unique, limited-edition Wrangler.
43. How does the Snow Trace celebrate Jeep’s heritage?
Through the vintage Willys MB graphics and Jeep grille motifs in the winter-themed designs.
44. What other limited-edition Jeeps were released recently in Japan?
Besides the Snow Trace, Jeep Japan released the Renegade North Star, Compass Trail Edition, and Compass Black Shark.
45. What makes the Compass Black Shark special?
It features a bold shark logo and all-black trim for a distinctive appearance.
46. How does the Snow Trace differ from the Compass Trail Edition?
The Snow Trace is a Wrangler with winter graphics, while the Trail Edition is a Compass with red trim on black-and-gray bodywork.
47. Are the Snow Trace accessories included with purchase?
Yes, buyers receive branded toques, neck warmers, blankets, and entry into select sweepstakes events.
48. What is included in the test drive gifts?
Jeep & K2-branded toques, neck warmers, blankets, and a chance to win a snowmobile trip at Kawaba Ski Resort.
49. Why is the Snow Trace so limited?
Jeep Japan intentionally limited production to 150 units to create exclusivity and appeal to collectors.
50. How does the Snow Trace celebrate winter culture?
Through ski and snowboard graphics, winter color schemes, and themed accessories.
51. Is the Snow Trace more expensive than a standard Sahara?
Yes, the limited edition costs about $58,000, which is slightly less than a US Sahara but includes unique styling.
52. Can the Snow Trace be seen outside Japan?
While rare, some imported models may appear in car shows or private collections abroad.