Let's be honest, if you have even the slightest interest in automobiles, you have undoubtedly dreamed or currently dream of having a Jeep Wrangler in your garage. It is one of the most iconic vehicles ever created in the history of humanity. During the presentation of the new Wrangler, Kareem Hassan, Product Brand Manager of Jeep Middle East, pointed out quite coolly that when kids draw a car, they often depict the outlines of a Wrangler. Jeep cars always come to mind first when it comes to off-road vehicles. This brand has firmly ingrained in the minds of millions worldwide the idea that Wrangler provides an absolute sense of freedom. If you love adventures, excitement, and travel, this car is your most reliable companion.
Jeep proudly declares that the new Wrangler is incredibly safe, technologically advanced, and capable. I decided to test how true these words are and went on an off-road test drive on a specially designed racing track in the desert at Badaya Camp. Each participant had access to the new Rubicon, Rubicon 392, and Sahara models. The Rubicon could be tested in both two-door and four-door configurations.
The Wrangler Rubicon 392 is undoubtedly the most interesting model in the lineup because it is equipped with a 6.4L HEMI V8 engine, delivering 470 horsepower. Scaling sandy dunes with the steepest inclines on Rubicon 392 is a true delight. It feels like this car doesn't even notice that there is sand under its wheels, not a perfect asphalt road. Pedal to the metal, and there you are at the top of the sandy mountain.
Capability leaves no room for questions. It is the most confident vehicle in its class. Massive 35-inch tires provide an incredible 12.9-inch ground clearance, a 47.4° approach angle, a 40.4° departure angle, and a 34-inch water fording depth. The full-time Selec-Trac 4x4 System automatically switches to two-wheel drive on clear roads or to four-wheel drive for continuous traction on snow, ice, rain, or mud. The full-time Rock-Trac 4x4 System delivers amazing control and torque, and with a 4:1 low-gear ratio, you can crawl at a lower speed with a powerful increase at the wheels. With such specifications, you can confidently plan a round-the-world trip.
There has never been any doubt that the Wrangler is an excellent off-road vehicle, but there were questions about the interior. Previous models seemed to me not very comfortable, modern, or technological. There was a feeling that the Rubicon 392 was a great off-road automobile but unsuitable for the city. The new model completely changed my attitude towards the Wrangler. Jeep seriously revamped the interior of the Rubicon 392. The car features a new dash, with the main element being a 12.3-inch touchscreen. It has very comfortable 12-way power front seats, in which you feel safe and cozy, even conquering sandy dunes.
The main exterior update is the refreshed iconic grille, which now looks even more aggressive and sporty. Jeep also introduced five new design options for the wheel rims. As always, the Rubicon 392 is available in countless colours, but perhaps the bright blue shade, which one might even want to call turquoise, is the best option for this Wrangler.
The new Jeep Wrangler is a completely versatile off-road vehicle, comfortable to navigate on any challenging terrain trail as well as in the city. For me, the ideal configuration is the 2-door Rubicon, although it is a pity that this model is equipped with a 3.4L V6. But let's be honest: if you don't plan to conquer off-road trails every week, this engine will be more than enough for you (just like it is for me).