The current Wrangler outperforms the model it replaces in every way imaginable, including design, handling, and performance, as well as quality standards never seen before on a Jeep-branded vehicle.
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited maintains its famed off-roading capability while also providing additional cargo room. The Jeep faces its hardest test yet with the debut of the new Ford Bronco, thanks to its classic look, broad lineup, and array of off-roading features. It doesn't help that the Jeep seems utilitarian on the road and has a poor track record of reliability. Jeep, on the other hand, hasn't remained idle in the face of formidable competition.
Exterior:
The Wrangler's ageless shape remains a big part of this rugged SUV's appeal. From the rounded headlamps to the seven-slot grille and the chunky fenders, it looks ready to get its boots dirty. It looks markedly different from trim to trim, though, with the base Sport making do with black fender flares and 17-inch steel wheels, whereas more expensive trims have alloy wheels in a range of finishes and available LED reflector headlamps.
Interior:
Climbing inside, you’ll find the interior is just as rugged as the exterior. The Wrangler Sport is all about its hardy mechanicals and clever off-roading tech, so it isn't particularly well equipped with the comforts some may expect at the price.
The infotainment is a Uconnect 4 7-inch system. It’s easy to use and comes with an audio input jack, a remote USB port, a media hub with two USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity with voice commands, an eight-speaker sound system
Engine and Performance:
Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre Turbo petrol engine producing 268 HP and 400 Nm of torque. Less power than the old V6 but let me tell you, I was not looking for more power. It’s refined and quite smooth when you put your foot down. The body-on-frame construction is a Jeep Wrangler hallmark and endows the SUV with superb off-road capability but exposes some flaws in day-to-day driving, which may disappoint anyone used to more pinned-down crossovers.
While the ride is reasonably composed, there is an underlying firmness and, when coupled with a susceptibility to crosswinds and plenty of road noise - especially in versions not equipped with the hardtop - it can prove tiring. The rattles are annoying, but that's the cost of having removable panels.
Wind noise is also a constant, which one should expect given the upright design. Wind rushes by the side mirrors, and you can feel the headwinds slowing you down. Despite having the aerodynamics of a back ride barrier, the Wrangler nonetheless managed to achieve good fuel economy. That being said, the current Wrangler is quieter than previous generations.
Space and Practicality:
The Wrangler Unlimited has decent space for passengers and the same is true for the cargo capacity. The entire cabin is water resistant, so you can just hose it out after a muddy adventure. The downside of such sturdy construction is that the materials don't have the upscale feel of some rival SUVs. The Wrangler Unlimited has 31.7 cubic feet of space behind its rear seats and a vast 72.4 cubic feet with them folded. That's more than most class rivals offer.
Verdict:
It's difficult to talk about the Jeep Wrangler without discussing the Ford Bronco, the not-so-subtle elephant in the room. Both appeal to nearly identical buyers and have nearly same starting prices, but the Bronco is a brand-new vehicle, whilst the Jeep is beginning to show its age in some areas.
For instance, it is severely lacking in terms of standard safety tech and the interior will feel too basic for some customers for daily use. That said, the Wrangler Unlimited is still a massively capable off-road SUV.
Its ability to make the driver feel like a hero over harsh terrain remains astonishing, and while some will find its back-to-basics nature out of touch with the latest SUVs, others will love it for exactly the same reason. The Jeep's variety of power plants all offer enough power for the task at hand and the broad lineup now has something to suit everyone, even the eco-conscious.
Price:
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport 2.0 4x4: ₱3,890,000
Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2.0 4x4: ₱4,490,000
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 2.0 4x4: ₱4,690,000
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 2.0 4x4: ₱4,990,000
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