By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com
For 2014 Jeep Wrangler delivers unmatched off-road capability with legendary four-wheel drive and is produced with more than seven decades of 4×4 engineering experience. Wrangler continues to offer a body-on-frame design, front and rear five-link suspension system, live axles, electronic lockers, and is one of the few mid-size SUVs that offer a six-speed manual transmission in addition to its five-speed automatic transmission.
The Jeep Wrangler is available with several axle gear ratios allowing customers to optimize fuel economy and/or vehicle capability. Wrangler is available with 3.21, 3.73 or 4.10 ratios depending on model. Also, Wrangler offers towing capability up to 3,500 pounds.
The capable driveline of the Sahara models includes a Dana 30 front axle and Dana 44 rear axle. The Command-Trac NV241, part-time, two-speed transfer case, features a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. In addition, an optional Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential provides extra torque and grip in low-traction environments such as sand, mud or snow.
Under the hood, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. It is engineered to provide a broad torque band with a focus on low-end torque, an essential trait needed for extreme off-roading. Engineers also designed the oil sump to provide oil to the pump even at extreme vehicle angles, and the alternator was placed up high so Wrangler can maintain its water-fording capability.
The Wrangler’s interior combines rich styling, versatility, comfort and improved feature use. Highlights include upgraded materials, automatic temperature controls, heated seats, power mirrors and steering wheel controls for vehicle systems. Larger rear windows are engineered for greater visibility. A USB port connects to the media center, 12-volt accessory outlets are located throughout the Wrangler and a 115-volt AC outlet is available to power select two-pronged home electronics.
Jeep Wrangler’s signature features include classic round headlamps, seven-slot grille, trapezoid wheel flares, removable doors, exposed hinges, a fold-down windshield and innovative removable and convertible tops and half-doors that allow the Wrangler to retain the brand’s iconic appearance and function.
The 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is available with an array of safety and security technology features. Standard electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, trailer-sway control, Hill-start Assist and brake traction control are among two dozen available safety and security features. Jeep safety systems are engineered to improve handling and accident avoidance while providing occupant protection.
Jeep Wrangler stays connected with Uconnect systems, including voice recognition, Bluetooth streaming audio, navigation and SiriusXM Radio. New for 2014, Sport models can now be equipped with the Uconnect 6.5-inch touchscreen radio with hard drive storage. The Wrangler’s connectivity systems have improved ergonomics by giving the driver control at their fingertips. Intuitive buttons on the front and rear of the steering wheel control a number of features allowing the driver to keep hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
Wrangler Sahara models offer a body-color hardtop and fender flares. A paint process was developed to match the body color to the sheet molded compound hardtops that exceeds the corporate quality standards of paint adhesion and UV resistance in the harshest environments. The body and top are painted separately with blended and matched paint to assure color continuity.
EPA fuel economy estimates are 16 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. The base manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $31,895.00 for the 2014 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4×4, the one I drove included Leather Trimmed Bucket Seats, Heated Front Seats, Slush Mats by Mopar, 5-Speed Automatic Transmission, Hill Descent Control, Freedom Top / 3 Piece Hard Top, Uconnect 730N CD/DVD/MP3/HDD/NAV, 40 GB Hard Drive with 20 GB Available in addition 1 year subscription of SiriusXM Travel Link and Traffic, and it came in at $40,280.00, which includes a $995.00 destination charge.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
