The Wrangler moniker came about in the mid-1980s as the singular replacement for the earlier CJs. Although the Jeep Wrangler did its forebears proud in terms of off-road prowess, a combination of that still-short wheelbase, loud and drafty cabin and tepid performance meant it was annoying at best as a daily commuter and road trip vehicle.
For the most recent version of the Wrangler, Jeep has attempted to make it more civilized via a new four-door body style, a more contemporary interior and new safety and convenience features. But die-hard Jeep enthusiasts shouldn't be too worried about this softening: The latest Wrangler stays true to its original purpose of providing rugged off-road capability and distinctive style.
Current Jeep Wrangler
All current Jeep Wranglers come with a 3.8-liter V6 engine capable of 202 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque. The V6 is connected to a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic. Most models are four-wheel-drive, though a rear-drive version of the Unlimited is available.
Three trim levels are offered: bare-bones Sport, midlevel Sahara and serious off-road-oriented Rubicon. The latter trim adds heavy-duty axles, extra-low gearing and electronically locking front and rear differentials. Each trim level is available in two body styles: a short-wheelbase two-door or the long-wheelbase four-door Unlimited. This year's Wrangler features improved interior materials, added acoustic insulation and new amenities like automatic climate control, heated seats and Bluetooth.
Age-old and desirable attributes such as compact dimensions (provided you choose the two-door version), high ground clearance, steep approach and departure angles and a no-nonsense four-wheel-drive system with an aggressive low-range function still apply to today's Wrangler, and it remains a popular choice among hard-core off-roaders.
Make no mistake, the ride is still stiff, and on the road the Wrangler's modest handling and acceleration abilities can actually be bested by most minivans. With its removable doors, zip-up plastic windows and hose-out interior, the Wrangler may be too rough for many consumers. But unlike past Wranglers, the new model is at least more tolerable thanks to a much quieter cabin, more comfortable seats and the availability of luxuries such as a CD changer, a navigation system and power windows.
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