Despite the challenges facing its parent company, Stellantis, the Jeep brand continues to see robust sales. Once considered the crown jewel of the lineup, the Wrangler’s sales have declined as consumer preference shifts toward models like the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Nevertheless, the Wrangler remains a popular choice, with over 113,000 units sold in the U.S.
Jeep Wrangler 80th Anniversary
By Jeep
Reason 1: Manual Transmission Still Offered
Interestingly, Jeep has kept manual transmission options available for the Wrangler, a rarity in today’s automotive landscape. While earlier models primarily paired this feature with the Pentastar V6 engine, the 8-speed automatic transmission was previously exclusive to the four-cylinder turbo and 4Xe variants. However, for off-road enthusiasts, nothing beats the thrill of shifting through gears in a vehicle that weighs between 4,000 to 4,600 pounds, boasting 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
In contrast, the Wrangler’s truck counterpart, the Gladiator, has eliminated the manual transmission option. The Ford Bronco stands as the Wrangler’s only competitor that still offers this coveted feature.
2024 Jeep Wrangler
By Jeep
Reason 2: Innovative Interior Enhancements
The 2025 Wrangler showcases significant interior advancements. The notable inclusion of a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen integrated with Stellantis’s advanced Uconnect 5 system, coupled with a customizable 7-inch digital display, makes for an engaging driving experience. Additionally, the horizontally oriented screen is positioned just beneath the windshield line, reducing the need for drivers to divert their gaze downwards to access critical information.
2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Rubicon with Level II Upfit by American Expedition Vehicles (AEV)
By Stellantis
Reason 3: Robust Solid Axles
In off-road conditions, articulation is essential. The Jeep Wrangler’s front and rear solid axles provide excellent tire contact, crucial for navigating rocky terrain, deep ruts, and steep inclines. This design enhances its legendary off-road capabilities, as solid axles are less prone to failure in rugged environments, despite not being ideal for everyday road performance. Fortunately, the Wrangler has benefitted from decades of refinement in this regard.
2025 Jeep Wrangler
By Jeep
Reason 4: Open-Air Freedom
While the Ford Bronco offers both soft-top and hard-top options, the Wrangler’s Sky One-Touch sliding sunroof presents a unique offering. This retractable feature allows drivers to enjoy open-air driving with minimal effort. Complementing the soft top, the removable side panels allow for maximum exposure to the elements.
2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe Summit Reserve
By Stellantis
Reason 5: Capable Hybrid (4Xe) Off-Road Performance
Contrary to popular belief, the heavier, more technologically advanced Jeep Wrangler 4Xe does not compromise off-road capabilities. In fact, the Rubicon version’s hybrid system delivers a combined output of 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, compensating for the added weight effectively. While it can operate in all-electric mode, this is most effective for brief distances. For optimal performance, letting the hybrid system work its magic is advisable. Notably, the fire-breathing 392 Hemi engine will not be part of the 2025 Wrangler lineup.
2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
By Jeep
Reason 6: Iconic Styling
Jeep designers face a considerable challenge in maintaining the Wrangler’s iconic aesthetic. With modifications often minimal—like a subtly altered grille—Wranglers remain instantly recognizable from any angle. As one of the most customizable vehicles in the world, aftermarket modifications for the Wrangler have created a multi-billion-dollar industry, ensuring its status remains intact.
2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
By Jeep
Reason 7: Joyful Urban Driving
The driving experience in a Wrangler around the city is undeniably enjoyable. Even base models exhibit sufficient power for everyday commuting, turning heads as drivers cruise with the top down. The exhilaration of partially or fully removing the top and doors offers a unique driving sensation reminiscent of motorcycle riding, albeit with a cautious reminder to keep limbs safely inside.
Jeep Wrangler Renegade
By Jeep
Reason to Consider 1: Comfort and Practicality Constraints
Despite its outstanding off-road capabilities, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon may not be the most comfortable vehicle for urban commuting. Accessibility can be challenging due to height and design, and interior space—especially in the two-door model—leaves much to be desired. Engineered for rugged terrain, these features compromise everyday utility when compared to rivals like Toyota and Ford.
Jeep Wrangler 4xe Powertrain
By Jeep
Reason to Consider 2: Fuel Efficiency Predicaments
Though the 4Xe model boasts possibilities for better fuel economy, its traditional powertrains—featuring a 4-cylinder turbo and Pentastar V6—fall short in efficiency. For instance, the V6 Unlimited 4-door with a manual transmission is rated at an average of 19 mpg combined, while the turbo variant achieves slightly better. The 4Xe claims an estimated 49 miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) with mixed gas and electric use, and around 20 miles on electric power alone when fully charged.
2024 Jeep Wrangler
By Jeep
Reason to Consider 3: Price Escalation
While the Jeep Wrangler offers competitive pricing against rivals like the Ford Bronco and Toyota 4Runner, prices for higher-end models can climb rapidly. The base price for a stripped-down 2025 Wrangler 2-Door Sport starts at $32,690, whereas the Unlimited 4-door begins at $37,290. Current incentives can lower these figures further, but the days of budget-friendly Wranglers appear to be fading.
Final Thoughts
The evolution of the Wrangler has seen prices rise alongside its capabilities. While an entry-level model may still offer affordability, the demanding consumer for off-road features will find the Wrangler Rubicon starting at over $52,000, and the hybrid variant can be even pricier. Customizations and special editions can deepen one’s financial commitment significantly.
In summary, prospective buyers might consider whether the high-end features and off-road capabilities justify the investment. With careful planning and minimal upgrades, it remains possible to own a Wrangler that delivers much of its beloved experience without overspending. A hardtop 2025 Jeep Wrangler Sport with the 8-speed automatic transmission hovers around $40,000, striking a balance between fun and function, leaving ample room for customization in the future.
Related: Cybertruck hype fades: Once hot, now not, Tesla’s pickup sits on lots.
Source:www.autoblog.com
