Pros: The Jeep Wrangler has beautifully stood the test of time since launching in 1987 as a replacement for the Jeep CJ, a civilized version of the iconic military-spec Willys MB. Always trendy and affordable, it delivers stellar off-road capability, particularly in Rubicon trim. Furthermore, the new management that was put in place following Chrysler's 2009 bankruptcy has endowed the Wrangler with more refined powertrains and interior layouts. Buyers after extra space will certainly appreciate the long-wheelbase Unlimited configuration.
Cons: If you're not a die-hard Jeep or 4x4 enthusiast, you'll regret having to sacrifice everyday comfort and quietness. Fuel consumption can be scary-high in some cases, too. The clutch in manual versions remains not-so driver-friendly.
2014 Jeep Wrangler Price: No fewer than 7 models are available from the base Sport at $23,195 to the top-of-the-line Unlimited Rubicon at $37,095.
2014 Jeep Wrangler Fuel Economy: Wrangler drivers should expect to burn 12.7L/100 in the city and 9.3L/100km on the highway.
Improvements and Changes: For 2014, the various packages have been upgraded, and a few colours are new.
2014 Jeep Wrangler Powertrain: Making things ever so simple, Jeep's only engine option with the 2014 Wrangler is a 3.6L DOHC Pentastar V6 that generates 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Available transmissions include a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. A choice of rugged four-wheel drive systems obviously complements this off-roader.
Cargo Capacity: The smallish trunk expands from 362 to 1,560 litres when you fold the rear seats, or 1,733 litres when you remove them entirely. Unlimited models are naturally more capacious, offering 892-2,000 litres of cargo room.
Safety: The 2014 Jeep Wrangler comes standard with ABS, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, stability and traction control, as well as hill-start assist.
Comparing the 2014 Jeep Wrangler: Few trail-oriented SUVs can challenge the legendary Wrangler, but the Nissan Xterra and Toyota FJ Cruiser both make strong cases.
Cons: If you're not a die-hard Jeep or 4x4 enthusiast, you'll regret having to sacrifice everyday comfort and quietness. Fuel consumption can be scary-high in some cases, too. The clutch in manual versions remains not-so driver-friendly.
2014 Jeep Wrangler Price: No fewer than 7 models are available from the base Sport at $23,195 to the top-of-the-line Unlimited Rubicon at $37,095.
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| Photo: Jeep |
2014 Jeep Wrangler Fuel Economy: Wrangler drivers should expect to burn 12.7L/100 in the city and 9.3L/100km on the highway.
Improvements and Changes: For 2014, the various packages have been upgraded, and a few colours are new.
2014 Jeep Wrangler Powertrain: Making things ever so simple, Jeep's only engine option with the 2014 Wrangler is a 3.6L DOHC Pentastar V6 that generates 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Available transmissions include a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. A choice of rugged four-wheel drive systems obviously complements this off-roader.
Cargo Capacity: The smallish trunk expands from 362 to 1,560 litres when you fold the rear seats, or 1,733 litres when you remove them entirely. Unlimited models are naturally more capacious, offering 892-2,000 litres of cargo room.
Safety: The 2014 Jeep Wrangler comes standard with ABS, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, stability and traction control, as well as hill-start assist.
Comparing the 2014 Jeep Wrangler: Few trail-oriented SUVs can challenge the legendary Wrangler, but the Nissan Xterra and Toyota FJ Cruiser both make strong cases.