Jeep Wrangler launched: Explained in Detail

lmost a year after its global debut, the all-new Jeep Wrangler is launched in India. The new-generation Wrangler is bigger, longer, wider, taller and yet lighter than before and is priced at Rs 63.94 lakhs (ex-showroom all-India). The iconic American 4x4 is offered with fold-down windshield and a removable roof and door configuration. However, it retails only at the 10 Jeep Destination Stores across India. Here is everything you need to know about the all-new Jeep Wrangler JL. 

On the surface, the fourth-generation Wrangler might not appear any different from the model it replaces. So there is the iconic seven-slat grille in the front with circular headlamps, trapezoidal wheel arches, square-shaped taillamps, and all the other elements which make the Wrangler stand out. However, you’ll need a keen eye to note the changes which include – flatter hood, window recesses on the doors, slightly curved grille, X-motif on taillamps, redesigned bumpers, air vents behind the front when arches and on the bonnet and lastly, an LED strip on the fascia. In terms of dimensions, the new Wrangler is longer than its predecessor by a massive 130mm, wider by 17mm, taller by 9mm and has 61mm of extra wheelbase. The Wrangler sits on 18-inch alloy wheels finished in Granite Crystal spokes. 

On the inside, the cabin isn’t bare-bones as you’d expect from a capable off-roader. On the contrary, the rather luxurious cabin comes with black leather seats, soft-touch materials on the dashboard, door panels, grab handles along with contrast stitching. Dominating the centre console is an 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen with UConnect system which also controls climate setting, navigation and comes loaded with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Standard features in the Wrangler includes engine stop/start, cruise control, seven-inch driver information screen, dual-zone climate control, remote key entrance, steering mounted control and a 552Watt Alpine music system.

Powering the new Wrangler is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine which puts out 268bhp and 400Nm. This smaller motor replaces the older Pentastar V6 but promises V6-matching performance while delivering better fuel efficiency. The transmission is a new eight-speed automatic instead of the five-speed unit offered with the previous generation Wrangler. 

In terms of hardware, each Wrangler comes fitted with Trail Rated badge which in Jeep terms means it can conquer the toughest terrains and harshest conditions making use of SelecTrac 4WD system. There is a fulltime 4H gear which can be switched from 2WD to 4WD by a dedicated 4x4 gear selector stick. 

The new Wrangler has a steeper approach angle of 41.8 degrees, break-over angle of 21 degrees and a departure angle of 36.1 degrees with an increased ground clearance of 29mm. The new body structure of high strength steel and aluminium rests on a five-link suspension system with heavy-duty gas shock absorbers. The Wrangler also comes with rear parking sensor with back up camera, ESC, and multi-stage airbags. 

Now at Rs 63.94 lakhs, the Wrangler might appear to be a bargain. But at its price, there are many other viable buys such as Volvo XC60, BMW X4 or the Jaguar F-Pace. On the other hand, BMW Z4, Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet or the Audi A5 offers better driving dynamics with an added sense of uniqueness. And for a little extra cash, Porsche’s updated Macan or Range Rover Velar comes with better snob value. But none of these cars comes with off-road credentials which are guaranteed with Jeep.