If you’ve been looking for a crossover that utilizes a car-like unibody construction, reliable and powerful drive train, and has a proven track record, the 2020 Jeep Wrangler may well be the vehicle of your dreams.
Old Meet the New
When Willys-Overland delivered its four-wheel-drive Jeep to the U.S. Army in 1941, it was destined to become the off-road vehicle of choice around the world.
The new Jeep Wrangler still retains the iconic Jeep style known to many but has features worthy of a new millennium.
What Jeep Wrangler specs should you know about?
Some of the most notable are:
- 3.6L V6m engine
- 286 horsepower
- 260 lb-ft.
- Six-speed manual transmission
Although its appearance is attention-grabbing, there’s a lot more to consider when buying an on/off-road vehicle. That’s why we are here to help you discover what the Jeep Wrangler offers in ground clearance, engine and transmission options, and all the bells and whistles those GI’s in World War II would have never dreamed of.
Different Models – Same Great Jeep Wrangler
The 2020 Jeep Wrangler comes in several configurations.
It comes in three primary trim levels: Sport, Sahara, and Rubicon. Those three have several sublevels: The Sport has Sport S and Black and Tan variants, and Unlimited models have an additional Altitude variant on Sport and Sahara trim levels.
Which Jeep Wrangler is Right for You?
That depends on what you plan to use your road warrior for the most. Here’s a look at some of the basic models to help you decide.
Sport – With an MSRP starting at $28,295.00, the Sport has a towing capacity of 2,000 lbs. and a gross combined weight rating of 8,016 lbs. This four-wheel-drive has Electro-hydraulic power assist steering activation, 17-inch wheels, and a torque of 260 lbs @ 4,800RPM.
Willys Sport – The Sport has virtually the same specs as its older brother, but as its name implies cloaks its off-road specs with a downtown look.
Sahara – Along with the same basic specs as the Sport, and Willys Sport, the Sahara adds 18” premium wheels, side steps, color-matched hardtop, and fender flares, for a bit classier look and more comfortable ride. The interior also allows for an upgraded stereo system with Alpine speakers. Interior LED lights and a leather seat option finish out the Sahara.
Wrangler Rubicon – This is the only Wrangler with a steel front and rear bumper. The Rubicon also has upgraded performance suspension and brakes.
Proving its claim to being an off-road king, the Rubicon comes standard with a 4:1 Rock-Trac HD Part-Time 4WD system off-roading tires, and a locking rear differential.
The Rubicon adds:
- Front air conditioning, dual-zone automatic
- SiriusXM AM/FM/Satellite, seek-scan Radio
- 2 – 1st row LCD monitor
- 17″ machined w/painted accents Aluminum Wheels
- Heated mirrors
- Keyfob (all doors) Remote keyless entry
- Premium cloth seat trim
North Edition 4×4 – Costing $10,000 more than the Sport, the North Edition is a four-door utility/luxury vehicle that seats four with room to spare and offers an upgrade to a diesel engine.
Offered mid-2020, the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine is rated at 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft. The diesel version is only available when paired with the optional eight-speed automatic transmission. It provides 260 horsepower and 442 lb-ft. and can two 3,500 lbs.
Unlimited – With a top price of $42,195 MSRP, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited also offers the EcoDiesel V-6 as an option. What sets the Unlimited apart are trim options that require some time on Jeep’s website, configuring it to whatever specifications you want.
The Pros and Cons of the Jeep Wrangler
Pros:
- Superior off-road capability
- Iconic Jeep styling
- Handles better on the road than past models
- Choice of power trains
- Easy to remove doors, top, and windshield
- Power-sliding top available
Cons:
- Expensive base price
- Less comfortable than rivals
- Dash obscures tops gauges
- Poor fuel economy
- Non-standard LED headlights
You’ve probably already decided the 2020 Jeep Wrangler is just what you want in an all-purpose vehicle. Before you sign on the dotted line, get a Vehicle History report. You should trust your dealer, but it is also important to know for sure that Jeep’s history is clear of accidents, branded titles, and all those other potentially costly issues.
