In case you hadn't noticed, Christmas is approaching, and with many of us most likely opting to stay home for a quieter-than-usual festive period this year, the receiving (and giving) of Lego is going to be more important than ever.
A more affordable Lego set
Thank Santa, then, that Lego has just released its latest Technic kit, featuring a plastic-brick likeness of the new Wrangler Rubicon. Unlike, say, the massive Porsche 911 GT3 or Bugatti Chiron kits, which cost damn near as much as the real cars (well, not really, but you know what we mean) the Lego Technic Jeep Wrangler is rather more affordable - it will retail at €49.99.
It's a 665-piece kit, which, as Lego puts it, will provide a thrilling building experience for "fans of all ages as they recreate the high-performance 4x4 systems, rugged tyres, fold-down rear seats and classic seven-slot grille in Lego Technic form."
Long-travel suspension
There's a clever button-operated steering system, and long-travel suspension for maximum axle articulation, so the Lego Wrangler will be able to climb across almost any household obstacle, from a stack of books to an unsuspecting cat.
"The Jeep Wrangler is an icon in the off-road world," said Lars Thygesen, designer, Lego Technic. "The Rubicon has a lot of the iconic details loved by 4x4 fans the world over, so it was important to me to pack as many of the authentic, powerful features of the real vehicle into the Lego Technic replica. I hope Lego fans and vehicle lovers enjoy all aspects, including the suspension, winch and open-air design that we developed alongside the talented Jeep design team."
"With an 80-year legacy that reaches around the world, our owners, fans and followers have quite literally grown up with us," said Christian Meunier, global president of the Jeep brand. "Our partnership with the Lego Group gives our enthusiasts another inclusive opportunity to share the passion they have for the Jeep Wrangler, a global automotive icon that represents fun, freedom and unbridled adventure."
Take it apart, reconfigure it
"Ask any Jeep Wrangler owner and they'll tell you that their vehicle is just a bigger version of this new Lego set," said Mark Allen, head of Jeep design. "The design of the Jeep Wrangler allows them to take it apart, top off, doors off, reconfigure it, add new pieces from our Mopar team, and then put it back together again. This Lego Technic Jeep Wrangler should bring a new level of joy to our Jeep enthusiasts and help inspire future designers to the brand."
Oh, one small problem - the new Jeep Wrangler set doesn't go on sale until January 1st. Looks like it'll be Lego vouchers for me this Christmas...