The Jeep Wrangler enters 2019 with significantly improved on-and off-road performance and fuel-efficiency. Drivers who are attracted to its rugged off-road design, can now have the best of both worlds. Completely redesigned in 2018, the two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon I tested was smooth and fun-to-drive on city streets and was surprisingly good on gas.
The 2019 Wrangler Rubicon with the optional mild hybrid electric motor, maintains Jeep’s 4×4 prowess and original design, and adds the technology and features of a modern-day SUV. The 2019 Jeep Wrangler lineup offers multiple powertrain combinations, including the all-new turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with the eTorque mild hybrid technology system.
It is the most powerful and fuel-efficient Wrangler ever, and its on-road performance has been dramatically improved for everyday driving. The base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generates 270 horsepower at 295 pound-ft of torque, averaging a combined 24 mpg. The electric motor provides an extra torque boost of 22 horsepower, which gives a smooth and quicker acceleration after stops.
The start-and-stop system saves fuel by adding electric power and up to 71 pound-feet of extra torque upon acceleration. The hybrid system also improves off-roading by quickly giving it consistent power during starts until the main torque kicks in.
The model variations include horsepower, price and differences in on- or off-road capabilities. The Rubicon for example, offers more off-road equipment which includes larger tires, stronger axles, sway bars, and a four-wheel-drive system with higher ride height.
Engine combinations and prices include the Jeep Wrangler Sport 2dr 4WD with a 3.6 liter V6 for $28,045; Jeep Wrangler Sport S 2dr with a 3.6-liter V6 for $31,245; Wrangler Unlimited Sport 4dr with a 3.6-liter V6 for $31,545; Wrangler Unlimited Sport S 4dr with a 3.6-liter V6 for $34,745; Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4dr for $38,395; Wrangler Rubicon 2dr with a 3.6-liter V6 4WD for $38,045; and the Wrangler Unlimited Moab 4dr with a 3.6-liter V6 8-speed automatic for $51,300 MSRP.
The 2019 Rubicon also stays true to Wrangler’s open-air style and fun-to-drive performance with the added features and technology that extends its appeal to more customers. Since the new Jeep Wrangler was introduced in 2018, it has been outperforming its competitors and was up 17.5% in sales last year.
Other off-road features on the two-door Wrangler Rubicon includes the traditional red tow hooks, 17-inch polished wheels with 33-inch tires, locking front and rear axles, Rock-Trac part-time 4×4, 4:1 transfer case, electronic sway-bar disconnects, steel off-road rock rails and skid plates.
A few of the latest technology features include a 7-inch touchscreen with Chrysler Uconnect 4 multimedia with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and satellite radio.
