If the 2020 Jeep Wrangler is on your shortlist, be sure to read what experts have to say about the safety of this iconic off-roader before you start shopping.
How safe is the 2020 Jeep Wrangler?
The NHTSA has not yet given the 2020 Jeep Wrangler an overall rating, but it did receive a 4-star Frontal and 3-star Rollover rating. The IIHS gives its Front Crash Prevention test a Superior mark.
You might have noticed that the 2020 Wrangler did not receive the coveted “top” score from either testing organization. What’s behind these average safety marks? Let’s take a look.
Jeep Wrangler Safety Rating – Crash Test Results
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety Results
The IIHS has only put the 2020 Jeep Wrangler through its crash avoidance and mitigation string of tests as of November 2020. Using the optional forward collision detection and emergency braking system, it earned a Superior mark.
It does not offer pedestrian detection. Meanwhile, its projection-type LED, and halogen headlights are rated as “Poor” as they do not use automatic high beam, self-leveling, or cornering technology.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Results
The NHTSA has not given the Jeep Wrangler an Overall Rating since at least 2011. It earns a 4-star rating for its frontal crash test, in which the SUV is sent into a barrier at 35 mph to simulate a head-on collision with another car.
The driver’s compartment and door are inspected for damage. It did not go through the Side Crash Test. It has a 3-star rollover rating with a rollover risk of 27.9% and a “No Tip” result in the Dynamic Tip test.
That Viral Rollover Video
If you wander into almost any online Jeep Wrangler chat room, they are probably talking about a video of the 2019/2020 Jeep Wrangler rolling over during a test at the IIHS. The video below is from the Small Overlap Test.
The test is to determine the type of damage incurred to the driver’s side compartment when the wheel impacts another vehicle. A news release by the IIHS stated that the Wrangler would receive a “Marginal” safety rating due to the rollover when their findings are released.
Jeep Wrangler Safety Rating – The Tech Behind it
If you are looking for a complete suite of driver-assist technology on a Wrangler, check out the 2021 model. The 2020 Jeep Wrangler can be equipped with the following smart safety features when you opt for the package:
- Blindspot and rear cross-traffic monitoring: This feature uses active sensors to detect when another vehicle approaches your blind spots behind and on the side of the car. The audible and visual alerts give you time to double-check your surroundings before changing lanes or pulling out of parking spots.
- Rear Park Sensing Monitor: Small sensors located in the rear bumper warn you when you come too close to a stationary obstacle like a toy or bicycle. Your camera may not show you small items on the ground.
Every 2020 Jeep Wrangler includes airbags, electronic stability control, and tire pressure sensors.
Other Questions People Also Ask About the 2020 Jeep Wrangler
Why is The 2020 Jeep Wrangler so Expensive?
If you compare the Jeep Wrangler with other compact SUVs designed for shuttling the kids to soccer practice, you will notice that the Jeep is often more expensive by $5,000 to $20,000. This is because the Wrangler is built as an off-road-ready vehicle.
It has a more rugged frame, heavier suspension, and true four-wheel drive. For a true price comparison, place the Wrangler against the Land Rover and Toyota Land Cruiser.
How Long Will The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Last?
Many Jeep Wranglers are still on the road with 200K miles on the odometer when you stay up to date on its routine maintenance. Some of these off-road vehicles can last for up to double the mileage.
What is the Difference Between the 2019 and 2020 Jeep Wrangler?
The big change for the 2020 year is the introduction of the 2.0L turbocharged and the 3.0L EcoDiesel engines that deliver improved fuel economy and towing ability compared to the long-running 3.6L V6 motor.
Which is the Best Trim for the 2020 Jeep Wrangler?
If you’re hunting for an epic off-road machine, the Rubicon comes equipped with an upgraded suspension, extra fender clearance, and an electronic sway bar and differential disconnect. Should you be looking for a more luxurious ride, consider the High Altitude with heated leather seats and navigation.
Photos: Stellantis
