The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic and popular member of the Jeep lineup. It is an excellent purchase for an off-road capable SUV. However, before you go to a dealership to purchase a Jeep Wrangler for sale, you might want to know more about it. Check out our complete Jeep Wrangler buyer's guide below.
Jeep Wrangler History and Overview
The Jeep Wrangler is known as an off-road champ and an iconic vehicle. However, the roots of this vehicle go back to World War II.
In the early 1940s, there was a rush to make different gear and war supplies. Some of those supplies included vehicles, and a company called Willys-Overland created a vehicle that the US military selected as its primary small vehicle. This vehicle was known as the MB, but people later started to call it the jeep. After the war, Willys created a civilian version of this vehicle to sell, but it wasn't until years later that this vehicle was officially called a Jeep.
In 1987, we got a more modern version and what would be recognized today as the Wrangler. This vehicle was called the Jeep Wrangler YJ. It was still the open body Jeep from the past, but it had lots of updates and new features. There were three original trims for the Wrangler, and this vehicle could produce up to 117-horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque.
Since then, there have been different generations and many upgrades for the Jeep Wrangler. This vehicle is known for its off-road capability, open-air adventure, and unmistakable style. The current Jeep Wrangler JL generation has more to offer than ever. Below, you can learn more about the specifics of the Jeep Wrangler, including different model years, performance features, off-road capabilities, and much more.
What's New for the 2020 Wrangler?
Each year, brands update their models to give you a new style and some new features. What's new for the 2020 Jeep Wrangler? Let's find out.
There are a few changes to the 2020 Wrangler that may make it worth it to upgrade. First, there are some performance differences for the new Wrangler. The 2020 Sahara trim will feature an eTorque mild hybrid technology that pairs with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This technology will help to recharge the battery while the driver is braking, which can improve acceleration in your Sahara and provide you with more torque.
Also, there is the addition of a new 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine option for the 2020 Wrangler. This engine will produce 260-horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. The diesel engine will be a late-availability engine, but it is exciting to see it on the list, and it certainly could be worth the wait.
Performance changes are not the only 2020 changes to the Wrangler. There will also be three new special editions for this model year. These will include the Willys edition, the Freedom edition, and the Black & Tan edition.
As you can see, the 2020 Wrangler offers some nice updates, which can make it a good investment for you. However, you may be asking if you should purchase a 2020 Wrangler or a different model year. Learn more about this below.
Should You Buy a New or Used Jeep Wrangler?
Whether you choose a brand-new 2020 Jeep Wrangler or an older model depends on your specific needs. Each year, the Jeep Wrangler gets an update that adds features and capabilities that you may want in your Wrangler. However, you may also prefer certain styles or features from previous years.
In 2018, Jeep did a complete redesign of the Wrangler for an all-new JL generation. The previous generation was the Wrangler JK, which ran from 2007 to 2018. JK models have a lot to offer you in terms of off-road performance, but they do not have as much of the newer technology features that can be found in the JL models. Consider what is important to you when you are looking at your different Jeep Wrangler options.
Trim Options and Pricing
Next, let's take a closer look at the different trim and special edition options that you can find with the Jeep Wrangler. This vehicle has several distinct trim levels that each offer you a different style and different features so that you can get the Wrangler that is best for you. Below, we will take a closer look at each of these options and their pricing. Also, almost every trim option is available in two different body styles -- the two-door option and the four-door Unlimited model.
- Sport – The price of the base Jeep Wrangler Sport model for 2020 will start around $28,000 for the two-door model, and your four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport model will be over $31,000. This trim will give you the 3.6-liter V6 engine standard, but you can upgrade to the optional turbocharged four-cylinder engine for an additional $1,500. Standard features in the Sport trim include four-wheel drive, all-season tires, tow hooks, skid plates, fog lights, a folding soft top, and 17-inch steel wheels. You also get technology features like Bluetooth, a rearview camera, a 5-inch touchscreen, a USB port, and a push-button start.
- Sport S – This trim option starts at around $31,000 for the two-door and $35,000 for the four-door. You get the same features from the Sport model, but you add features like remote keyless entry, air conditioning, power windows, 17-inch alloy wheels, and heated side mirrors. You do have the option to add some different packages to get additional features like the Technology package, which can give you Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a 7-inch touchscreen, and more.
- Black & Tan – This option is a special edition for the 2020 model year, and it starts at a price of around $32,000. The Black & Tan special edition offers you the same features as the Sport S trim, but it provides you with unique styling. For example, you get a tan soft-top roof and tan cloth seats for an unmistakable appearance. You also get all-terrain tires and the content of the Technology package standard.
- Willys – The Wrangler Willys adds a few off-road features that make it stand out from previous trim options. The interior features are similar to that of the Sport S trim, but you get some extra off-road features to go with it. These off-road features include more heavy-duty brakes, mud-terrain tires, a rear limited-slip differential, and rock sliders. You also get Mopar all-weather floor mats to help keep your interior more protected after you go off-road. You can get the Willys trim for around $34,000 for the two-door model and $37,000 for the four-door model.
- Sport Altitude – This trim option is only offered as a four-door model. The Sport Altitude has a starting price a little less than $37,000 and has many similar features to the Sport S, but it comes with a hardtop roof. You also get 18-inch alloy wheels with this trim.
- Sahara – The Jeep Wrangler Sahara is only offered as a four-door model, and it starts at a price just below $39,000. This vehicle also comes standard with the 3.6-liter V6 engine, but it also offers you the eTorque mild-hybrid technology that can help improve torque and acceleration. The Sahara is the only trim that offers you this eTorque mild hybrid technology. This trim option also gives you features like 18-inch alloy wheels, three USB ports, and the Technology package with features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 7-inch touchscreen. You can also add the Infotainment package to get a larger touchscreen, navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, but at an additional cost.
- Rubicon – The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is known for its off-road capabilities. This vehicle starts at around $38,000 for the two-door models and $41,000 for the Unlimited Rubicon models. With the Rubicon, you have many of your interior features carried over from previous models, but you add several off-road features. Some of these off-road features include locking front and rear differentials, rock sliders, BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tires, a sport-tuned suspension, a front stabilizer bar, red tow hooks, and an upgraded four-wheel-drive system.
- Sahara Altitude – This trim is similar to the Sahara option, but it gives you a hardtop roof and 18-inch alloy wheels. It has a starting price of around $42,000.
As you can see, there are many different options when it comes to Jeep Wrangler trim levels. Each of these trim levels offers you slightly different features and upgrades, so it can take a little bit of research to determine which option is right for you.
To figure it out, it is vital to think about your priorities and your needs when it comes to your Jeep. Is off-roading important to you? If it is, you will want to look into the Willys or Jeep Wrangler Rubicon trims. Are you looking for the new eTorque hybrid system? That can only be found in the Sahara trim. If you want technology features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you will need to choose the Sport S with the technology package or trim levels above this one.
Think about your needs and desires with your next Jeep to help figure out which trim option is right for you. If you have any questions about the different models or the features they offer, you can feel free to reach out to us at Left Hand Garage.
Performance and Engine Options
With your Jeep Wrangler, you get a great style, but the most important thing is the performance. Let's take a closer look at what you can expect from the performance of your Wrangler and the different engine options you have to go with this vehicle. Then, you can customize the performance of your Jeep to precisely what you are looking for.
- 3.6-liter V6 – The engine that is found standard in the Jeep Wrangler is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. This engine produces 285-horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This engine comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, but there is an optional 8-speed automatic transmission. When it comes to fuel efficiency, the V6 gives you around 18 city and 23 highway mpg.
- V6 engine with eTorque Mild-Hybrid – The 3.6-liter V6 engine discussed above can also be found with an eTorque mild-hybrid system. This engine still gives you 285-horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. However, this engine recharges to provide you with better acceleration and torque for a more impressive stop-and-go performance.
- Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder – The V6 engine comes standard on the Wrangler, but you can upgrade your vehicle to a turbocharged four-cylinder engine to give yourself more torque. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine gives you 270-horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. With the four-cylinder engine, you can expect to get around 22 city and 24 highway mpg in terms of fuel economy.
- Four-cylinder engine with eTorque Mild-Hybrid – The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine also has a version with the eTorque mild-hybrid technology. This can improve acceleration and torque, like in the V6 version.
- 3.0-liter Turbodiesel – The 2020 Wrangler will also offer you another engine option later in the year. This engine will be a diesel engine option. This 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine will give you 260-horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque. This engine will also be paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
These engines offer you different capabilities and different performance, so you can choose the option that gives you the performance you are looking for in your Wrangler. Also, when it comes to performance, the Jeep Wrangler can tow up to 2,000 pounds when it is properly equipped, and the Wrangler Unlimited can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
However, the engine options are only part of the story when it comes to Wrangler's performance. There are also a lot of off-road features and capabilities associated with this vehicle. Below, you can learn more about the Jeep Wrangler's off-road performance and all the off-road features that this vehicle offers you.
Off-Road Features
Jeep Wranglers are known for their off-road capability. This SUV wears a Trail Rated badge because it has passed many tests to prove that it can survive and thrive in harsh conditions and on challenging terrain.
Here are some of the off-road features and capabilities that the Jeep Wrangler offers you:
- 4x4 Systems – The Wrangler gives you amazing traction with three available 4xx4 systems that help you take on different conditions. There is the Selec-Trac system that automatically changes from two-wheel drive on the road to four-wheel drive on trails or in snow or ice. The Command-Trac system gives you excellent traction and torque for all of your wheels to provide you with better performance when you are off-roading. There is also the Rock-Trac system that gives you good control and torque for rock crawling and more.
- Tires – Several different tire options in the Jeep Wrangler can help you get the off-road performance that you are looking for. One example of this is the 33-inch BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tires found on the Wrangler Rubicon. These tires can give you excellent ground clearance with their size, as well as improved control and traction because of the larger surface area.
- Skid Plates – Your Jeep Wrangler also has underbody skid plates to help protect your vehicle from damage on challenging trails and terrain.
- Electronic Sway Bar Disconnect – Sway bars in your vehicle help your vehicle maintain balance and traction, but they can sometimes interfere with the wheel articulation. That is why the Wrangler offers you an Electronic Sway Bar Disconnect system that allows you to perform better on that harsh terrain.
- Electronic Locking Differentials – The Tru-Lok electronic locking differential helps you take on tough terrain by giving you the ability to evenly distribute power and torque for better traction.
- Tow Hooks – The red tow hooks on your Wrangler not only look impressive, but they help give your vehicle even more capability to get out of sticky situations.
These features are all part of giving you and your Jeep the best off-road experience possible. Let us know if you have any questions about these features or capabilities.
Exterior Style and Features
You get an iconic style from the exterior of the Jeep Wrangler with its round headlights and open-air capabilities.
The Jeep Wrangler offers you exterior features like available LED lighting, including fog lamps, daytime running lamps, and reflector headlamps. You also have many options for tires from 17-inch aluminum wheels to 33-inch off-road all-terrain tires.
The exterior size of your Wrangler also depends upon whether you choose the two-door option or the four-door Unlimited option. The two-door option is about 166 inches in length, and the four-door option is about 188 inches in length.
When it comes to experiencing the outdoors while you are driving your Jeep, you have a few different options. There are hardtop and soft top Jeep Wranglers. Your first top option for the Jeep Wrangler is a Sky One-Touch Power Top that automatically opens by pressing a button in your Jeep. You also have the option of the Zipperless Sunrider Soft Top that is easy to use. Your final choice is a Three-Piece Hardtop. The soft top is great because it can be very easily removed and stored. The hardtop is more durable and more insulated, so it can be useful for those in colder climates. You have to choose the option that is best for you.
Interior Features and Cargo Space
On the inside of the Jeep Wrangler, you can find some great features. The seating capacity of this vehicle depends on whether you choose the two-door Wrangler or the four-door Wrangler Unlimited. With the two-door Wrangler, you get seating for four, but the Unlimited gives you four doors and seating for five. If you are going to have several passengers regularly, the Unlimited is probably the way to go because it gives you more seating, easier access to the second row, and more legroom in the second row for your passengers. When it comes to the seats themselves, the Wrangler gives you standard cloth upholstery, but there are options to upgrade to leather seating and heated front seats.
Cargo space in the Wrangler also depends on whether or not you choose the Unlimited option. The two-door Wrangler gives you 13 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 32 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down. Your Wrangler Unlimited gives you 31 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 72 cubic feet of cargo space with those rear seats folded down.
The interior of the Jeep Wrangler also has some great technology and infotainment features to offer you. You can learn more about these below.
Infotainment and Technology Features
The inside of the Jeep Wrangler offers you technology that you won't want to be without. In this vehicle, you can get a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, remote keyless entry, two 12-volt outlets, USB ports, push-button start, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a navigation system, and more. Look at some of these technology features in greater detail here.
- Infotainment – The Jeep Wrangler gives you an easy-to-use Uconnect infotainment system. This system is intuitive and straightforward. It is paired with a 5-inch touchscreen, a 7-inch touchscreen, or an 8.4-inch touchscreen.
- Smartphone Connectivity – You can connect your smartphone to your vehicle with features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. These options allow you to answer calls and texts hands-free. You also get access to important stuff on your phone like music, apps, and more. This can keep you connected.
- Sound System – Your Jeep can also allow you to enjoy music, radio, podcasts, and more with the optional Alpine sound system. You also have options like HD radio and satellite radio to keep you entertained when you are on the go.
- Wi-Fi Hotspot – With your Jeep Wrangler, you also have the option of getting a Wi-Fi hotspot. This can ensure that you are connected and entertained no matter where you go. Whether you want to make your Jeep a mobile office, or you just want to stay connected when you are on your adventures, this could be an excellent option for you.
In addition to those great infotainment and technology features, the Jeep Wrangler offers you safety technology features to look out for you. Check them out below.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The Jeep Wrangler looks out for you with plenty of available safety and security features. These features use cameras and radars to alert you of potential hazards or collisions. Check out what the Jeep Wrangler has to offer you for safety features here.
- Rearview Camera – Every Jeep Wrangler comes standard with a rearview camera. This camera helps you see behind your vehicle when you are backing up or parking. It also gives you an audible alert if you are getting too close to an object.
- Blind Spot Monitoring – This feature uses radar-based sensors to take note of your surroundings and detect if there is a vehicle in your blind spot, and it will alert you of such.
- Forward Collision Warning – With Forward Collision Warning, your vehicle will sense when it is too close to a car or object in front of it. If this feature detects a potential collision, it will alert you. This feature also has active braking that will automatically hit the brakes if it detects a potential collision and you have not responded.
- Adaptive Cruise Control – Getting too close to the vehicle in front of you gives you a higher chance of getting in a collision. With this safety feature, your vehicle automatically adjusts your speed so that you don't get too close to the car in front of you.
- Rear Parking Sensors – These sensors pair well with your camera. They alert you if you are too close to a vehicle or another object when you are backing up or parking.
All of these safety and driver assistance features help to look out for you when you are using your Jeep Wrangler. Your warranty coverage can also help you look out for your Jeep.
Warranty Coverage and Maintenance
Finally, let's take a look at the warranty that comes with your Jeep Wrangler. When you buy a 2020 Jeep Wrangler, you are covered with a 3-year, 36,000-mile Basic Limited Warranty. This warranty offers comprehensive coverage for most of your Jeep. You also get the 5-year Powertrain Limited warranty engine and transmission parts. These warranties cover the repairs for parts that were faulty or defective. However, there are also extended warranty options that you can purchase to give yourself more coverage when it comes to vehicle repairs and maintenance.
There are a lot of factors to consider when you think about buying a new vehicle. You want to think about the features this new car offers, which trim option fits your needs, what safety features the vehicle has, the warranty coverage for this vehicle, and so much more. We hope this complete guide for the Jeep Wrangler helped you learn more about this vehicle and whether or not you want to purchase it. Reach out to us if you have any questions about any Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram vehicles.