Jeep’s new Wrangler a more complete product

Fast forward over thirty years 2019 and the current JL Wrangler is the fourth generation of the 4×4, having replaced the popular JK variant.

With the brand being exceptionally quiet locally, the introduction of the latest Wrangler came as a surprise, with the Autodealer only noting its introduction thanks to communication with a local dealership a couple of months ago. The folks at Fiat Chrysler Sandton later offered me the latest Wrangler, in two-door Rubicon guise for a few days, to get reacquainted with one of the latest offerings from Jeep.

Same-same, but different

The new car doesn’t look much different but shares only 5% of its parts with the previous generation. There’s now LED front and rear lights and in the case of the Rubicon, massive all-terrain tyres and red front and rear tow hooks. It is unmistakably a Wrangler, something which fans of the marque should be excited about.

I found the interior to be a massive leap forward, with a lovely infotainment system complete with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay functionality. The audio system is fantastic too, while the general fit and finish are better than before. The removable roof still makes me feel as if I’m in a gigantic cooler box and it creeks as you move along. The front part of the roof is easier to remove now though and for those wanting a convertible off-roader, the Wrangler certainly delivers the goods. As is to be expected, the boot is small in the three-door, so those requiring practicality will have to go for the four-door Unlimited variant, which is just R15 000 more expensive.

Under the hood

In certain overseas markets, the Wrangler is available with a variety of engine options, including a four-cylinder turbo petrol engine, a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine in Europe and soon, a 3.0-litre turbo diesel motor for the American market.  One engine that appears to be a ‘global’ powertrain is the ubiquitous 3.6-litre Pentastar V6, which is the only engine available in Wrangler models locally. It produces 209 kW and 347 N.m and is mated to a superb ZF 8HP 8-speed automatic gearbox. This means that no matter what, your new Wrangler will be thirsty, with my brief 280km stint resulting in a fuel consumption figure of 12.8 L/100km.

Driving Wrangler

The first thing those that have experienced the old product will note when driving the new variant is how much more complaint it is on the road. Even in Rubicon guise, with its lower top speed and massive all-terrain tyres, the new Wrangler is a far more pleasing proposition on the road. That being said, at speed, on the highway and indeed, under braking, the off-road-bias suspension shows itself. The Sahara specification will be more agreeable on the road though, and will likely achieve 90% of what this Rubicon can when the going gets tough.

Speaking of off-road ability, I’m certain that there isn’t another off-roader in SA that one could take from a showroom floor and outperform the Wrangler with. The Rubicon gets front and rear locking differentials and the front sway bar can be decoupled in low range mode, giving you a fully independent front suspension, allowing for incredible rock-climbing ability. The Wrangler made light work of some obstacles at a quarry near my home recently, leaving a lasting impression on me, considering that I’ve conquered the same course with less ease in a Mercedes-AMG G63 and Suzuki’s mighty Jimny.

A niche

To criticise the Wrangler for its lack of efficiency and even its on-road drawbacks would be to miss the point of the car entirely. Buyers in this segment are looking for something very specific, something that matches their lifestyle.

The elephant in the room

One cannot approach the Wrangler without confronting an issue that has plagued the model for years, its safety rating, The 2019 Wrangler scored a one-star Euro NCAP safety rating, mostly due to the fact that there are very few autonomous safety systems available, however the car didn’t perform very well in adult and child occupant as well as pedestrian safety. This will likely not deter buyers looking for the unique proposition that a Wrangler provides, but it is something I feel compelled to share.

Verdict

The latest Wrangler is a better product than the vehicle that it replaces is just about every measurable way. It’s a pity that we aren’t getting the more efficient engines, however, those that decide to add one of these to their garage will have one of the best off-road lifestyle vehicles on the market when capability and cool factor are considered.

Pricing

Jeep Wrangler 3.6 Rubicon R 900 000

Likes

• Unrivalled off-road ability
• Unique offering within the market
• Improvement in daily usability

Dislikes

• It’s not exactly cheap
• Poor safety rating
• Lack of boost space in three-door