Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 4X4. Well I’m biased and think that a vehicle that’s been around since 1941 has earned its stripes. And I have taken the Jeep on Jamborees and Jeep Camps and have been impressed. Yet the youngsters at ConsumerReports.org show their age and ignorance when they say “The Wrangler may be as good as it’s ever been but it is seriously outdated.” I wanna throw up. What stupidity.
Well in spite of the ignorance of some publication writers Jeep has been steadfast in sticking to what separates and sets it apart from all others that look EXACTLY alike. How boring is that?!
I hate to see those comments because it could influence Jeep to give up its uniqueness to be more like those ‘Lock Step’ designers that aspire to mediocrity. Hang in there Jeep.
General Information:
Parts content – US/ Canadian 71%, Mexico 15%; Engine – US; Transmission – Germany It is assembled in Toledo, Ohio, USA; Classification is SUV. Cars from Jeep: Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Patriot and Wrangler.
Handling & Performance:
Jeep is not only unique in styling but in how it feels to drive the Grand Daddy of classic SUVs. The 4-door I tested is even better than the shorter version in my opinion. The larger model is more stable and convenient with added seating and comfort.
I have driven Jeeps through terrain that most would say is impossible. I did! It will literally paw its way over tall boulders that no vehicle should be expected to climb. If you are a serious off road enthusiast you know what I mean.
A distinction of a real man’s off road system is right here in the Jeep. It’s the Electronic sway bar disconnect that allows you to flip a switch and disengage the sway bar while driving under 18 mph in low mode. That way the front wheels can drop and compress up to 33% further. You can appreciate that when you are going over terrain that is otherwise inaccessible to all other wanna-be off road vehicles.
If you’re a Jeep owner there are 29 venues around the country with names such as Rubicon Trail in California, Cajun in Louisiana, Big Horn Mountains in Wyoming, and Top of the Ozarks in Missouri… I guess that’s because it’s the Show Me state. You can find all and register to attend on line at http://jeepjamboreeusa.com/tripsregister/. Highly recommended.
Styling:
You know, the greatest compliment for anything is that others copy. And think about the fact that Hummer hit the Desert by Storm (pun intended). The H-1 was so popular it took a great depression to silence it. But we all know Jeep was the inspiration for all Hummer model designs. They were both designed to be the best in all and the most severe conditions and that is the look of success and Victory. Bravo Jeep.
Fit and Finish:
It’s a Jeep – a Man’s Vehicle that rough and tumble Gals seem to be drawn to as well. And off road rugged vehicles by their very nature are not meant to have close tolerances. This isn’t a Lexus or other prissy Miss SUVs.
Cost:
A little pricey, but the competition is not really in its league.
Conveniences and comfort:
More than a real man needs, but not too much.
Consumer Recommendation:
Don’t listen to those who would try to convince you that the Jeep is dated as a bad thing. It is precisely opposite, which is a good thing. It never goes out of style and you can drive it with pride knowing that you are not a clone of anything else on the road.
And finally if you are driving a Jeep people know… they just know you are an out of doors guy or gal who has fun and experiences the excitement in life that boring people just don’t have the balls for. Ooh-Rah.
Recognized Competition:
Jeep Wrangler $34,000, Kia Sportage $28,000, Nissan Xterra $27,000, Honda CR-V $28,000, Hyundai Tucson $26,000, Toyota RAV $28,000, Mitsubishi Outlander $28,000, Ford Escape $30,000, Nissan Juke $26,000, Suzuki Grand Vitara $25,000, Toyota FJ Cruiser $28,000.
Good News:
Unique classic styling, fun fun fun to drive, rough and rugged and it spells independent and self reliance. Available in a V6.
Bad News:
For a smaller vehicle it doesn’t do any better on gas than a big Ford pickup, for example.
Standard Equipment:
3.6 liter 285 horsepower V6 engine, 5-speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel ABS power disc brakes, electronic Roll mitigation and a Roll Bar, 4:1 Rock-Trak part time 4-WD system, hill start assist, Tru-Lok electronic locking front and rear differentials, electronic front sway bar disconnect, Rock rails, transfer case skid plate shield, cruise control, security alarm,22.5 gal fuel tank, sentry key theft deterrent system, tire pressure monitor, air conditioning, audio with CD/MP3 player, 7 speaker infinity sound system, audio jack input for mobile devices, Sirius XM satellite, power windows & locks, steering wheel mounted audio controls, leather wrapped steering wheel, remote keyless entry, tem and compass gauge, tile steering column, reclining front seats, rear 60/40 split folding seat, 115 volt aux power outlet, 17” aluminum wheels, LT255/75R17 BSW Off-Road Tires, auto headlights, power heated mirrors, deep tint sunscreen windows, two front tow hooks and one rear tow hook, fog lights, Sunrider soft top and matching spare wheel.
Gas Stats:
$3.65/ Gal avg. June 28, 2012
For more information.
16 City and Highway 20 MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $33,570.
