Jeep Wrangler

Jeep Wrangler is one of the best off-road vehicles from the American manufacturer Chrysler, which is one of the branches of Jeep. At the end of November 2017, during the International Motor Show in Los Angeles, there was the premiere of the legendary “passer-by” of the next, 4th generation with the internal index “JL” (taking into account “Willis” in wartime, the 9th generation). The car was specially designed as a military vehicle and supplied to the United States Army. It became the successor of not less famous Jeep CJ. The whole model range is Jeep.

Car history

Jeep Wrangler I (1987-1996)

Production of the first generation was launched in 1987 and ended in 1996. Rectangular headlights became a design feature. The name had a prefix YJ. In addition to the basic model, special restyling versions were also produced, such as: Laredo, Islander Sport, Sahara Renegade and Rio Grande.

During the whole life cycle the construction component and the list of equipment of the machine were changed. Jeep Wrangler of the 1st generation is a compact SUV, which is in a closed and open body version. The total length of the vehicle is 3,879 millimetres. The distance between the bridges is 2,373 millimeters. The width of the car does not exceed 1,676 mm and the height is 1,735 mm.

A fully equipped vehicle weighs between 1,295 and 1,470 kg, depending on the equipment selected. One of the trumps is the high ground clearance of 228 millimeters. Debut models were produced in Toledo (USA) and Brampton (Canada). In addition, the vehicle was produced in China (Beijing) since 1986-1995 and in Tehran (Iran) since 1989-1997.

The model, which was the predecessor of Jeep Wrangler, was one of the debut SUVs – the military version of the Jeep Willys. When the Second World War ended, the civil model of the famous jeep, which was named Jeep Willys CJ, was launched. Seven versions of this vehicle were produced for 41 years, but in 1984, when testing the NHTSA, one of the copies of the car was turned over.

It was Suzuki SJ413. As a result, the car’s reputation has deteriorated, and buying cars has become much less common. Therefore, the management of American Motor Company decided to force the design of a new vehicle, the prototypes of which had already been in operation in 1983. For the first time in the history of the company were able to carry out a list of marketing research of the market.

As a result of such research in 1986, a fundamentally new vehicle – Jeep YJ, which bore the name of Wrangler – appeared. The novelty debuted during the Geneva Motor Show, and production began at the Canadian enterprise of Brampton. The following year, the company AMS joined the Chrysler association. And it, in turn, further produced Wrangler under the previous brand Jeep.

After the Brempton Automobile Plant closed in 1992, the construction of the machines was moved to the Toledo Automobile Plant in America. It is noteworthy that it was there that Willys was produced during the fighting. Then off-road versions were assembled in China and Iran. Despite criticism from fans, the model continued to gain popularity among American buyers.

As of 1987, sales were 16000 vehicles, and as early as 1995, this figure had risen to 93000. That year, the first generation of Jeep Wrangler stopped producing. The first family of the popular car came with 2.5, 4.0 and 4.2 liters engines. The engine and wheels were synchronized by a three-speed automatic or five-speed manual gearbox.

Jeep Wrangler II (1996-2006)

The second generation was presented in 1996. The car entered the market a year later. The model carried the index TJ. The chip with headlights is now a thing of the past, and they have become round again. It managed to improve the smoothness of the chassis. There was even a right-hand drive version. The vehicle was produced in series from 1996 to 2006, after which it was replaced by a third family of SUVs.

If you compare the car with the previous debut generation, the model has been changed externally, improved interior design and technical stuffing. The second family was produced in a two-door version of a compact class SUV. The car was available in open and closed body type.

In addition, a limited number offered an extended version of the American car, the length of which was 4 343 millimeters, and the width of the bases – 2 630 millimeters. The 2nd generation Jeep Wrangler weighed from 1403 to 1750 kilograms. Three atmospheric gasoline engines were installed under the hood of the “American”.

The basic engine was a 4-cylinder 2.4-liter engine, which developed from 143 to 147 “hooves” and 215-224 Nm of torque, depending on the modification. The role of the middle “brother” was performed by a four-cylinder 2.5-liter engine, which developed 118-120 horsepower and has 190-198 Nm of torque.

Topov was considered to be an ordinary six-cylinder 4.0-liter power plant, producing from 178 to 193 “horses” and 290-319 Nm of ultimate traction. The vehicle was equipped with a five-speed manual or three-speed automatic gearbox, and since 2003 the “automatic” has been replaced by a four-range gearbox. A plug-in four-wheel drive with Command-Trac was also provided.

For Jeep Wrangler II, a good frame structure was used. The car has a dependent suspension (spring-lever type) on each of the axles, where the stabilizers of transverse stability were placed. A strong steering booster is essential, which makes it much easier to control the machine.

The brake system had front disk mechanisms (supporting ventilation function) and drum devices at the back. There was also an anti-locking technology.

Jeep Wrangler III (2006-2017)

The third generation of this most popular SUV, the world saw in 2007. Now the name has got the prefix JK. As for the exterior, there were no special changes, it became only more comfortable and spacious in the cabin.

Exterior Wrangler III

The appearance of the Jeep Wrangler is the most classic and plunges us into the history of the production of the debut machines of high cross-country ability. Many people already know that the first samples appeared in different armies of the world and at the same time had almost the same appearance. However, they were distinguished by their cross-country characteristics.

For this reason, the American car was able to retain its classic exterior, however, it was slightly improved, which increased its elegance. The jeep has a powerful and sturdy front bumper with “foggers” installed in it. The radiator grille, together with the rounded headlights and cornering lights, was placed in a common structural panel. The hood received aluminum open locks and the windshield could be tilted.

It’s obvious that the wheel arches protrude quite a bit. As for the roof, when it was produced, a special three-layer material was used, reflecting the noise, absorbing aerodynamic noise and resisting the appearance of aerodynamic vibrations. All this has significantly improved the overall sound insulation.

Depends on whether the machine has a bodywork with either 3 or 5 doors. In the first variant, the size of the car is modest, so it will be easy to drive in urban conditions, but the second variant has enlarged dimensions, although even this does not prevent it from being a city car and a car for off-road use at once. The doors themselves can be removed due to the construction of hinges – they are external.

The aft area, where the luggage compartment is located, has an open design, which makes it possible to fold one of the sections of the roof of the machine if necessary. A spare wheel is clearly distinguished. When 2010 came, the machine has undergone a significant debut modernization, which almost completely changed the interior, added fresh color options and added new functionality to the newest equipment.

Following this, the model has been upgraded every year. Such restylings concerned not only the cosmetic side, but also the technical equipment. It is hard not to single out the car, noticing a rectangular, angular body style, characteristic grille with 7 “hereditary” holes and rounded headlights.

For those who like to conquer the bad road, the manufacturers have provided versions of Sport, Sahara and Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, known to many people. They differ in the color of arches of the wheels, the size of the “rollers”, inscriptions and other elements of decoration. The third generation of the famous SUV weighs from 1828 to 1926 kg, depending on what modification.

Intrierer Wrangler III

The interior of the “American” is a true “jeep territory”, but it is enriched with features of modern technology. The salon emphasizes the condom room, where there is a sharp front end, decorated with a multimedia system, three-spoke multifunctional “lamb” and traditional “toolkit”. Only materials of proper quality were used inside, and Sahara and Jeep Wrangler Rubicon can be fitted with leather seats as a separate option. Seats have not received a certain relief, but have a soft filler and only mechanical corrections.

The second row has a flat sofa, unsuccessful access and limited space available at the feet and head. The trunk of the car cannot even be stretched with small cars – only 141 liters. However, if necessary, it is possible to add the second row, which will increase the useful space up to 430 liters. The “hold” received a 12-volt socket and a convenient 2-sided mat. It will be nice to have a waterproof tank in the underground.

Specifications Wrangler III

The company’s engineers provide a choice of 2 power units. The gasoline version of the Jeep Wrangler is a 3.6-liter “atmosphere” with a V-shaped six-cylinder filling, where there is a distributed fuel supply. All this allows the Wrangler engine to deliver 284 horsepower at 6,360 rpm and 347 Nm of torque at 4300 rpm.

Together with the “engine” there is a five-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system. The Jeep Wrangler III gains its first hundred in only 8.1 seconds, and its maximum speed is 180 km/h. Indicators are good, but for them it is necessary to pay, as the engine consumes about 14.7 liters of gasoline in mixed mode.

This is followed by a 2.8-litre in-line four-cylinder diesel-powered, turbocharged and direct injection system. It produces 200 “horses” at 3,800 rpm and 410 Nm of peak thrust, which is realized from 2,600 to 3,200 rpm. Together with the engine runs a six-speed mechanical gearbox and all-wheel drive system. Based on this, the diesel version is accelerated to the first hundred kilometers in 13.1 seconds, and the maximum speed is set at 169 kilometers per hour. Average engine consumption in mixed mode is stated at 8.3 liters.

Jeep Wrangler 3 families in the versions Sport and Sahara has an attached all-wheel drive Command-Trac, where there is a two-stage transfer case, a self-locking differential on the rear axle and a reduction gear, which increases the torque at minimum speeds by 2.72 times. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon version is equipped with an improved transmission Rock-Trac, which has an upgraded “dispenser” that can open the front stabilizer and forcibly block the interwheel differentials. The degree of lowering is 4.1:1.

Interestingly, that three-door off-road car Jeep Wrangler 3 generations possesses excellent characteristics of geometrical passability. The angle of exit and entry is 28 and 35 respectively. The car is not afraid of water obstacles, the depth of which does not exceed 480 millimeters. Moreover, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon can overcome water depths up to 760 millimeters!

As a basis for the SUV decided to take a powerful spar frame, which consists of parts with a closed box section. “Three-door” received a spring suspension of a dependent type. Ahead of the designers installed a five-lever structure with a Panara thrust, where there were twisted springs and a stabilizer.

The rear part has an improved DANA 44 bridge with levers of longitudinal type and stabilizer. On Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, a similar scheme is used in front. The “American” has a hydraulic power steering and braking system, which combines the front ventilated disc brakes and rear disc mechanisms. The set includes ABS+EBD.

For our country, “trash” is in two executions. The Sahara version is estimated from 2 450 000 rub. It has a front Airbag, high-quality audio system, functional steering wheel, leather trim, cruise control, automatic climate control, soft folding top, a means to control stability on the slope, ABS, ESP, a means to stop the overturning of the car and so on.

The Rubicon version costs 100,000 rubles more, and in addition to the above mentioned functions, it has all-wheel drive transmission Rock-Trac, improved front axle Dana 44, mechanized locking of two axles and other equipment. Interestingly, although the car is still home off-road, it is also well adapted to the urban type. For this purpose, fuel consumption was reduced. So wherever you go on this “beast”, you can have fun and feel confident.

Jeep Wrangler IV (2017 – present)

Exterior Wrangler IV

As mentioned at the beginning, the Jeep Wrangler 2017-2018 was officially launched during a special event in Los Angeles in late November 2017. The car was able to retain its recognizable appearance as a real off-road “hard worker” and received the factory index JL.

The American has a frame construction, continuous axles on both axles and a reduced transmission. However, at the same time, the new vehicle received more economical power units running on gasoline and diesel fuel, a soft hybrid power variant for a surcharge (engine-generator, which received a small capacity), current safety features and comfortable interior with an abundance of advanced equipment.

In addition, in order to interest the Jeep as many motorists as possible, there is a huge choice of versions of roofs, windshields, side doors. In addition, there are all sorts of engine power, 3 gearboxes on the mechanics and 2 on the “machine” (one version is made by the Germans – ZF, and the other own company), some choice of the number of wheels and different versions of all-wheel drive system.

It feels as if in front of you is not a car, but a transformer. However, the company did not stop at this. In the near future, it is planned to deliver a hybrid version of Wrangler and a car in the back of a pickup truck. Side mirrors have been increased, which has a positive effect on the quality of visibility, and the side steps have become even wider, so it is even more convenient to sit down and get up from the SUV.

 

The profile part has as if chopped axe shapes with overwhelmed frontal glass. All this looks rather brutal and attractive. The corporate appearance remains, where it is easy to see the pronounced wings, a classic radiator grille with 7 vertical slots, rounded headlights and a modest bumper. Regardless of its rather ordinary appearance, the new Jeep Wrangler 4 generation looks fresh, modern and stylish. A distinct difference in body appearance, if compared to the previous model, can be considered as installed on the wings of turn signals (on the 3 generation they were under the headlights), headlights, which received LED rings of daytime running lights, massive bumpers, glass doors with rounded corners and increased inclination of the windshield frame.

It’s nice that Jeep Wrangler 2018 stopped installing simple doors with plastic glass. The new generation now has only full-size doors with window lifters. However, if necessary, the doors can be removed quickly and the front glass can be folded forward on the hood. It is noteworthy that the bumper has removable corners, which makes it possible to place massive off-road type wheels in them. Tuning enthusiasts will love it! There are also changes in the body structure of the “American” car. Steel spar frame has been made stronger and stiffer, and the doors and hood of the car are lightened by using aluminum alloy as a material. In addition, you can choose one of the four roof versions for your car.

It includes a Soft Top fabric roof (disassembled by hand), a rigid Hard Top roof that is bolted to the body, a removable Freedom Top type targar (disassembled by 2 sections above the driver and front passenger) and a rigid fixed Power Top roof.

The latest version has an electrically operated hatch. Those who find this choice scarce can still pay attention to the Dual Top roof. This roof has a soft and hard top. The rear part has new rear combined LED lights and hanging on the door luggage compartment “reserve”.

Interrier Wrangler IV

Many people are wondering what to expect from the new generation of Jeep Wrangler in the salon? In short, the interior is similar to the previous generation, however, the level of materials used for finishing has improved significantly. The interior looks elegant. The design composition was able to significantly change the central console, along with the front panel of the machine.

The driver’s gaze immediately turns to the unique dashboard with a mechanical engine speed sensor and speedometer. In the middle there is a 7-inch on-board computer screen (available as a separate option, the basic version comes with a 3.5-inch black and white screen). A convenient multifunctional steering wheel is installed before the “device”.

Ventilation deflectors, which have a round shape, look very elegant. Here it is possible to carry also controls “climate” and the most “fresh” multimedia complex which has received the touch screen 8.4-inch display (the base complete set can brag only the screen calculated on 5 inches). Supported by Apple Car and Android Auto. The company said that the multimedia system can show on the screen different information about the operation of off-road vehicle systems.

It displays this location of the car on the roadway and even information about the depth of the ford, which can cope with the “American”. To select all-wheel drive mode, the normal lever is used, and the differentials can only be locked using the buttons. The power pack can now be started by simply pressing the corresponding button. The front seats have electrical lumbar support adjustments.

I am glad that the new model also allows you to remove the doors (they have convenient handles for carrying). It will be pleasant for fans of driving on stone paths, where it is important to observe the condition of wheels hour after hour. On the previous generation, the hood locks were often vibrated while driving, so they were reinforced in the new car.

Engineers have made it much easier to tilt the windshield onto the hood. Previously, to do this, it was necessary to unscrew 28 bolts, but now – only 4. But the frame, where the rear-view mirror is installed, remains in place. In the field of ergonomics, the machine is not so good (for example, here is inconveniently placed buttons of window lifters), but the assembly and used materials at a high level.

There’s room for four people inside. Sitting high, so good visibility is ensured. The dashboard itself and the window sill are located high, which will require a little getting used to. Looking back is no longer so comfortable, because they block the entire view of the headrests of the rear row of seats, and behind them a spare wheel. Taking into account a camp condition, cargo compartment of Jeep Wrangler IV has received 897 litres of useful space (if loaded under a roof).

Specifications

Powertrain

For the American version with the JL index, 3 motors are available. The basic engine is a gasoline, atmospheric, V-shaped, six-cylinder, 3.6-liter Pentastar engine, which has a distributed fuel injection and 24-valve structure of gas distribution mechanism with variable phases of gas distribution.

All this allows the power plant to produce 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 353 Nm of torque at 4,800 rpm. Next comes the gasoline, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder Tigershark unit, which has a common architecture, turbocharger, direct fuel supply, 16-valve mechanism and gas distribution phase control system.

As a result, the engine develops 270 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 400 NM of torque at 3,000 rpm. The motor is equipped with a belt driven combination starter generator and a 48-volt traction battery from the factory. Thanks to this device, it is possible to start and stop the “engine” while driving and accumulate energy during braking.

Jeep Wrangler 2018 is equipped with a 3.0-liter diesel V-type six-cylinder engine with a Common Rail “power supply” system, turbocharger and 24-valve gas distribution mechanism. It develops such a variant of about 260 “horses”.

Transmission

The buyer can choose between two checkpoints. It can be a 6-speed manual transmission or an 8-range automatic transmission. It’s nice to have something to choose from in terms of drive type. Command Trac has a hardwired front axle and a demultiplier.

The Rock-Track is used on the extreme version of the Vrangler Rubicon Jeep and is complemented by a “creeping” reduction speed. The automatic all-wheel-drive system completes the list. It features a multi-disc clutch and a friction differential or honest locking of each axle.

Carriage

The 4 families were based on a spar frame, which was made with high-strength steel. The hood, together with the tailgate, doors and windscreen frame, was made of aluminum. All wheels are equipped with spring suspensions with continuous Dana axles and stabilizers of transverse stability.

All wheels have disc brakes and the front wheels are ventilated. They are synchronized with ABS and EBD systems. The machine is controlled by a rack and pinion steering system, which has received electro-hydraulic power steering.

Price and equipment

In the United States of America, the new product will be sold in January 2018. The basic equipment has 4 airbags, air conditioning, power windows, ABS, EBD, ESP, button start, mountain start assistance system, 17-inch rollers, wheel pressure sensors, audio system and other modern equipment.

There are also adaptive head optics, navigation system, electric heating of all seats, electric mirror heating, climate control, cruise control, emergency braking assistant, hydraulic power steering and rear camera. The Jeep Wrangler JK Unlimited Sport version will cost about $30,000.

Competitors of Jeep Wrangler

In reality, the real rivals of the “American” are not so many, but still they are. “Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Toyota Land Cruiser can reach him. Although the vehicles look different, they share common components. All 3 vehicles have a frame and real “dispensers”, lockable differentials and real bridges as a body base. All three vehicles have military roots, and one of them is still in the army. However, Toyota is one of the three cars with an independent suspension ahead. When comparing these three cars off-road, the American wins.

But it is worth making a small correction that when testing these three machines, used a version of Rubicon, which improves off-road performance of the “American”. We can say that the Jeep is a kind of benchmark – if Wrangler could not overcome the problem area, the “German” and “Japanese” can not do it. The most important criteria here are tires, suspension and geometric cross-country ability. How Jeep is able to climb steep rocks, just surprises.

Owner’s Comments

It’s worth saying right away that an American car is more suitable for men who love off-road driving. According to Jeep Wrangler’s owners, the model has a lot of possibilities for tuning, and the spare parts are not as expensive as Japanese cars. Brake system is excellent. The landing is high and comfortable. Despite the good visibility, it is still not ideal because of the small mirrors.

The quality of the music system is acceptable. Due to the fact that the chassis is simple, there are no special problems with it. Many drivers like the function of all-wheel drive disconnection, good height of ground clearance, modern interior, especially considering the latest 4th generation. If you type in Internet Jeep Wrangler reviews of owners, you understand that the car has a large margin of safety and is very reliable.

If you are a fan of hunting, fishing or travel – Jeep Wrangler for you! It won’t let you down at the right time and will take you out of there, where not all SUVs can get out. On the other hand, some people don’t like uncomfortable front seats that don’t have good side and lumbar support. There are complaints about the incomprehensible electrical stabilizer. As soon as moisture gets inside, it dies, and the car becomes in emergency mode.

If you drive in the city limits, the car will be a little harsh, so before buying you should think again about where you plan to use the car. Sometimes the rear door hinges break because of the spare wheel. There is not always enough headlamp light. And when it rains, the water from the roof, if the front doors are open, will intrusively drip right under the interior mat.

Pluses and minuses

We sum up

In general, Jeep Wrangler will be suitable for thrill seekers, travelers, hunters and fishermen. The car will become your loyal friend and reliable assistant. High ground clearance will allow you to pass where even other SUVs will not pass. Quite powerful motors will allow you to feel confident, and the system of real four-wheel drive will help you get out of the most difficult road situation.

Those who want to use this car in the role of a city one will throw away money for nothing. Off-road vehicle is not designed for asphalt. The model starts to make noise, the suspension will be rigid, and fuel consumption will upset you. Connoisseurs of the brand will soon be able to feel all the joy of the latest 4th generation of Jeep Wrangler, which has become even better, more modern and more comfortable, despite the fact that it has not lost its recognizability and traditional exterior elements.

It’s much nicer and more comfortable inside now. The dashboard has a colour screen that displays various technical information. And on the central console there is a large touch screen display. It is not as convenient to sit on the back row as it is on the first one, but two people can be easily placed there. However, a large amount of space should not be expected. The volume of luggage compartment has slightly upset, however, if you add up the back row of seats, you can achieve more free space.

Actually it is visible that the American company Jeep managed to keep what many motorists love so much about it – simplicity, comfort, off-road characteristics, unpretentiousness and possibility of various tuning. Americans wanted to make the fourth generation so that it could continue to compete with other off-road cars. It would be desirable to notice that they have managed it.

We advise you to read the article: History of Jeep

Jeep Wrangler IV photo

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