Jeep Wrangler

Jeep Wrangler

Is this one of the best off-road vehicles around? Probably. The reputation of the Jeep Wrangler is one of resolute toughness but the latest model shows that this American icon is the most accomplished yet; as much as home in suburbia as it is in the wild places.

The Exterior

Design-wise, the Wrangler has not changed much over the years and that’s a deliberate policy. This Jeep is instantly recognisable. The trapezoidal grille remains as ever, round lights, broad wheel arches, a detachable roof (with options such as a soft top) and detachable doors on some models. But there are modern touches too; the headlights are LED with automatic high beam and the infotainment system is bang up to date.

For the new range-topping flagship model, The Rubicon, there’s a new Off-Road+ mode that provides unique power-train and chassis tuning. The system automatically adjusts the various traction control and transmission calibrations. New and used other models and special editions in the range have low-range gearing, long-travel suspension and vast amounts of ground clearance. Selecting four-wheel drive, the driver can lock the centre differential so the front and rear axles get equal amounts of power at all times, while the low-range gearbox gives finer control at low speeds and multiplies the engine’s torque for steep slopes. This Jeep is the off-road master.

The Interior

The seats are comfortable and there’s a great view of the road ahead. Despite being a big vehicle, it is easy to manoeuvre thanks to all-round visibility too, with a reversing camera and parking sensors optionally available for extra help. The dashboard has been modernised. Entry-level Sahara models come with a configurable and pin-sharp 7.0” LCD display between the dials in front of the driver, as well as Jeep’s biggest 8.4” touchscreen infotainment system. Navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring included.

As well as the usual everyday functions, there are off-road-specific displays that show vital statistics such as angles and temperatures.

Interior quality offers great seats, soft-touch plastic around the centre console and on the door handles, a leather steering wheel and solid-feeling switches.

Space is dependent on the model chosen with the four-door being obviously more roomy than the two-door. That said, the two-door will seat four and both variants have plenty of storage and luggage space.

Driving The Jeep Wrangler

For a car that is geared to rougher terrain, the ride on smooth tarmac is necessarily compromised thanks in part to the big tyres. That’s not a fault, it is part of life with a Wrangler and to assist on-road driving, enhanced additional safety features are now included as standard across the Wrangler range. These may include the addition of adaptive cruise control with stop and go, accident emergency braking and auto high beam. On-road manners are surprisingly civilised provided the driver doesn’t assume sports car handling. Remember, the Wrangler is not a mainstream SUV.

Power is provided in all the latest versions by a two-litre 272bhp Euro6D final petrol engine, combined with an eight-speed automatic gearbox that improves on previous CO² emissions, ranging between 243-251g/km, when fitted to the Sahara and Overland variants, while the off-road focused Rubicon emits between 261-271g/km. Used models have the option of a strong, modern diesel engine which buyers can also import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand and other destinations globally.

Off-road driving has also been enhanced with a series of new features added to the Wrangler range as standard, making it even easier to go anywhere and do anything. ‘Selec-Speed’ cruise control, allows the driver to maintain a steady speed during rock crawling and other types of low speed manoeuvring. Tyre pressures can be monitored through the touchscreen to suit the terrain.

Jeep use the expression ‘Trail Rated’ with which they guarantee the go-anywhere nature of the car. Featuring the Jeep ‘Command-Trac’ four-wheel-drive system it uses the Selec-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case to continuously monitor and manage the torque sent to the front and rear wheels to ensure the Wrangler can master even the most challenging off-road surfaces.

Should You Buy One?

Rural dwellers will appreciate the all-round abilities of this car. It is however becoming increasingly popular with urban drivers who like the rugged demeanour. The Jeep Wrangler has shaken off the problems that blighted much earlier models and reliability is fine. Here at MHH International we offer a selection of Jeep vehicles. Use our search option and find the right Jeep for you.