When it comes to off-road performance, few vehicles can top the iconic Jeep Wrangler. This purpose-made machine is one of the most capable and rugged vehicles on planet Earth. It’s also brimming with charisma, drawing heavily upon its military roots.
Available in traditional two-door and long-wheelbase four-door Wrangler Unlimited configurations, the Wrangler is also a convertible – and one of the most affordable ones to boot. Utilitarian simplicity is predominant in base models offering full manual controls for windows and mirrors, and a wash-out interior complete with drain plugs. Higher trim levels can be fitted with unexpected luxuries like leather upholstery, navigation, and a premium sound system. The Wrangler comes standard with a manually operated soft top with zippers and Velcro; a hard top is optional.
For 2016, the only changes to the Wrangler are cosmetic. The mid-grade Sahara receives body-coloured bumpers, a new Olive Green leather interior option, plus Granite-finish 18-inch wheels, and silver accented grille slots. The 75th Anniversary Edition gets bronze-finish wheels, unique bumpers, a power-dome hood, and grille, plus leather and Ombre mesh upholstered seats. The 75th Anniversary Edition is available in both body styles, and can be had in two unique colours: Mojave and Sarge Green. Two other trail-oriented special editions return for 2016, the Willys Wheeler and the Hard Rock.
All Wranglers come equipped with FCA’s 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine that develops 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is standard, with a five-speed automatic as an option; all models feature a traditional four-wheel drive system, which can be upgrade with different rear axle ratios, different axles, disconnecting anti-sway bars, and serious off-road tires. Due in part to their rugged construction, the Wrangler can tow up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped.
Pricing for the Wrangler starts at $27,495 for the two-door Wrangler Sport and goes up to $44,490 for the Wrangler Unlimited 75th Anniversary Edition.
