Jeep by Chrysler

 

Welcome to the 3rd generation of Jeep Wranglers, with the most significant change in the model history. The JK was first introduced at the 2006 North American International Auto Show in Detroit by Chrysler President Tom LaSorda. He spectacularly drove a JK through a glass pane for the presentation. 

On April 21, 2007, the new Jeep Wrangler JK sales began. It was available in two model variants as a two-door and, for the first time, as a four-door with the suffix Unlimited (JKU). The primary platform of the predecessor, TJ, has been replaced by the improved JK platform and now offers improved handling on asphalt. 

The model JKU from 2007 was a five-door and half a meter longer version offered under the name Unlimited with more space for the passengers and more trunk. The JK generation combines modern technology with a lot of nostalgia in the classic Jeep manner. 

The five-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is the extended and therefore more everyday version of the classic Jeep which was created from the original Willys Overland military model in the 1940s and for a long time only ran as a short body version. The Wrangler JK was replaced with the fourth-generation JL in 2018.

 

Body

Jeep by Chrysler

 

The body still cites the original jeep with angular styling, round headlights, outboard door hinges, and old-fashioned fenders. However, its image as a robust off-roader with good quality also lets fans forget some small impracticalities.

The Jeep Wrangler JK is a distinctive blend of old and new.  The 15.5 ft long, 4,5K lbs  Wrangler Unlimited is a stately appearance and offers much more space than its three-door brother. The almost rectangular structure also creates plenty of room in the rear seats.

Hardly any other off-road vehicle, apart from the Land Rover Defender, lives so much on its image and history as the Jeep Wrangler. The Unlimited version of the American classic combines nostalgia, rustic charm, and driving pleasure with sufficient suitability for everyday use.

The Jeep Wrangler JK has a stately appearance. It is only 2 inches shorter than a VW Touareg, and at a good 4,5K lbs, it weighs about as much as a BMW X5. But where aerodynamics dominate in modern SUVs, here you can see steeply positioned radiators and windshields, external door fittings, and fenders that protrude horizontally.

 

Interior

Jeep by Chrysler

 

In the basic Sport version, the Wrangler Unlimited is equipped rather sparingly. However, automatic climate control and a cruise control system are still on board. The better equipment versions Sahara or Rubicon add electric windows and a central locking system. 

There are also several extras that are subject to a surcharge, such as leather seats and a navigation system for the Sahara and Rubicon versions. The basic model can also be equipped with several packages with heated seats, electric windows, and side airbags for a more comfortable fit.

When it comes to safety equipment, the Wrangler Unlimited is more than modest. Only two airbags, ordinary cruise control, and a hill climb & hill descent control are standard in the basic Sport version. 

Side airbags are reserved for the more expensive Sahara and Rubicon trim levels or are part of packages that require an additional charge. Contemporary assistance systems are not available for the Wrangler.

For the model year 2011, Wrangler received a new interior, and Sahara models got a higher quality Hardtop in body color.

 

Technology

Jeep by Chrysler

 

The Wrangler, previously offered exclusively with gasoline engines, was available with common rail diesel engines from the JK onwards. A six-speed manual transmission is standard for the 2.8-liter turbodiesel variants. A four-speed automatic transmission was available for the 3.8-liter V6 engine, which was replaced in 2012 by the 5G-TRONIC transmission from Mercedes-Benz.

There are two engines to choose from for the Wrangler JK. The more economical alternative is the 2.8-liter common rail diesel engine with 200 hp, a maximum torque of 460 Nm, and 5-speed automatic transmission. 

The gasoline option is a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 284 hp, which is also equipped with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This engine has more power but also significantly higher consumption. 

All versions have selectable all-wheel-drive and in the Rubicon version, the drive is geared even more towards off-road driving. The diesel engine is unmistakable, but thanks to the 200 hp and 460 Nm of torque, it also pulls the long Wrangler quite properly.

 

Jeep by Chrysler

 

The Jeep Wrangler JKU moves well on the road and offers more suspension comfort. After all, thanks to the long wheelbase, it tends to wobble much less than the short version. But it is not quite as agile in rough terrain. ESP is a new addition for Jeep Wrangler and it is included in all equipment lines.

With reinforced axles and better terrain reduction, the Jeep Wrangler JK should be up to any task. The Rubicon also has a stabilizer bar that can be separated from the driver's seat by an electrically locked sleeve, which increases the possible twisting of the axles off-road, as well as electrically operated locks in the front and rear axles. These can also be operated from the cockpit.

 

Protecting a Jeep Wrangler JK & JKU

 

The Jeep WranglerUnlimited offers what is now a rather unique combination of nostalgia and off-road driving fun. Many are faster and more comfortable on the road, but the Wrangler is always far ahead when off-road.

Like all off-road vehicles, Wrangler needs the utmost care possible for it to function correctly down the years. Having a good maintenance schedule is a great first step however it is not enough. You also need to have adequate protective equipment and use them correctly.

Even if you always drive your Wrangler with its hardtop roof, it is still a convertible and you need to treat it as such. As a manufacturer, Jeep wants to help you to make it easier. That’s why they got into a partnership with the established cover and equipment company, Coverking.

 

 

For example, if you like to drive your car topless, you are going to need this special tonneau cover. In fact, check out Coverking’s custom Jeep parts, you never know, you might find something very special for your vehicle, like this beautiful roll bar cover. 

To cover up your pride and joy, we recommend Moving Blanket Car Cover for indoor and Autobody Armor Car Cover for outdoor protection. Car manufacturers use these covers themselves so you know that these are the best covers you can find on the market. 

Wranglers famously always have a storage problem and this one is not an exception. Interior storage areas are limited and the trunk can get very unorganized. So, this tailgate tactical storage will be the best thing you bought for your car.

 

Resources

 

Coverking Links

 

Tankut Basar

Tankut Basar is an ARA (American Rally Assoc.) Racing Driver and an FIA Bronze Category License Holder. His passion for driving began with karting like most racers. He started racing internationally at the age of 22. Tankut loves everything car-related and will keep enjoying the drive until the end.

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