Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sports 3.8 V6 (A) Review
25 Aug 2011|15,178 views
One glance at the Jeep Wrangler and you'll realise that this utilitarian figure has its own dictionary entry. Although Jeep continues to create cars such as the Commander, Compass, Patriot and the recently launched Grand Cherokee for comfort and capability, the Wrangler remains to be the marque's original off-roader and centrepiece.
While it's not the best-selling vehicle in its segment, the Wrangler's rugged image has stood the test of time well and is what gives Jeep credibility. With the motoring market changing beyond recognition, Jeep manages well to keep the Wrangler in place, allowing purists and fans to take solace that the pure off-roader is what they have come to expect from Jeep.
But an influx of comfortable SUVs meant that the giant needed an update. Hence, to appeal to the hardcore off-roaders and Wrangler loyalists, the brand decided to add a four-door model, dubbed the Wrangler Unlimited, to the Wrangler family.
Exterior
Like some of the oversized SUVs in the market, the Wrangler isn't exactly a love at first sight for everyone. Some think it's a crude form of SUV while others reckon it's a statement of life. We simply reckon it's the attitude it possesses which has fascinated its fans.
But that aside, there's a very attractive aura around this car. On longer stares, the Wrangler's unfiltered charm and off-road prowess screams no-nonsense from bumper to bumper. Jeep has managed well with the Wrangler, balancing its boxy squared-off edges and heritage without losing its practical appeal to its fan base.
While it's not the best-selling vehicle in its segment, the Wrangler's rugged image has stood the test of time well and is what gives Jeep credibility. With the motoring market changing beyond recognition, Jeep manages well to keep the Wrangler in place, allowing purists and fans to take solace that the pure off-roader is what they have come to expect from Jeep.
But an influx of comfortable SUVs meant that the giant needed an update. Hence, to appeal to the hardcore off-roaders and Wrangler loyalists, the brand decided to add a four-door model, dubbed the Wrangler Unlimited, to the Wrangler family.
Exterior
Like some of the oversized SUVs in the market, the Wrangler isn't exactly a love at first sight for everyone. Some think it's a crude form of SUV while others reckon it's a statement of life. We simply reckon it's the attitude it possesses which has fascinated its fans.
But that aside, there's a very attractive aura around this car. On longer stares, the Wrangler's unfiltered charm and off-road prowess screams no-nonsense from bumper to bumper. Jeep has managed well with the Wrangler, balancing its boxy squared-off edges and heritage without losing its practical appeal to its fan base.
 |
The iconic appearance that continues to feature traditional styling such as rounded headlights and seven-slot grille is still intact. The feel of it is tough and reassuring and unlike higher-end mud-pluggers, the Wrangler is more menacing than grand - which is exactly how it should be. There's just nothing about the vehicle that suggests it will fall apart in years to come.
To put it up front, the Jeep Wrangler has a timeless appeal. Regardless of whether it's the Wrangler or Wrangler Unlimited, make no mistake, purists need not worry that this car will soon fade off in time. Its rugged outlook allows the car to stand alone in the off-road segment and is far too distinctive to be outshined.
 |
Interior
At this point in time, it's not so much on how luxurious the interior looks. Potential owners of this mud-plugger probably already have a couple of rides parked in their garage and the addition of the Wrangler will just be for pure rock and roll fun. Plus, given the fact that it is built for off-road purposes, the Wrangler Unlimited that we tested portrayed its intention. Interior fittings look rugged and hard plastics, which feel like they could withstand a thorough beating, are the order of the day.
Comparing it with its shorter brethren, the four-door machismo offers enough space for drivers to bring a couple of buddies out into the wilderness. You could haul a total of five adults with ample head and legroom all round. It's at this point when you'll start to truly appreciate the Wrangler Unlimited over its two-door sibling although the longer look resembles a mini truck.
At this point in time, it's not so much on how luxurious the interior looks. Potential owners of this mud-plugger probably already have a couple of rides parked in their garage and the addition of the Wrangler will just be for pure rock and roll fun. Plus, given the fact that it is built for off-road purposes, the Wrangler Unlimited that we tested portrayed its intention. Interior fittings look rugged and hard plastics, which feel like they could withstand a thorough beating, are the order of the day.
Comparing it with its shorter brethren, the four-door machismo offers enough space for drivers to bring a couple of buddies out into the wilderness. You could haul a total of five adults with ample head and legroom all round. It's at this point when you'll start to truly appreciate the Wrangler Unlimited over its two-door sibling although the longer look resembles a mini truck.
On the pavements, you can still use the car to ferry your family and friends like any other SUVs without them complaining about the lack of space and yet you can choose to throw the car around rougher terrains with reckless abandon should you choose. But as a compromise, the side mirrors has to be adjusted manually which isn't exactly a big deal since it's a one-off thing.
There's no doubt a tinge of tackiness in the overall interior but considering what the car is intended for, it's easy to forgive it. The Wrangler is created neither to be equipped with an array of kit nor with a system that can enable drivers to toggle between terrain options. Simply put it, what you see is what you'll get.
There's no doubt a tinge of tackiness in the overall interior but considering what the car is intended for, it's easy to forgive it. The Wrangler is created neither to be equipped with an array of kit nor with a system that can enable drivers to toggle between terrain options. Simply put it, what you see is what you'll get.
 |
The Drive
On the pavements, which is where you'll find yourself most of the time on our roads, the Wrangler Unlimited is sluggish on straight roads. Slamming pedal to the metal will bring about more noise than stirring ferocity, preventing you from dozing off behind the wheel. The 3.8-litre V6 powerplant may not set the roads on fire but it does steers relatively well and holds the road confidently, even around bends.
The only factor that we couldn't forgive the car for was the intrusion of wind and road noise. It feels like there is practically no noise insulation despite the hardtop and it isn't difficult to experience it. The wind becomes your babysitter and starts nagging once you pass the 80km/h mark. And for the fact that the factory-fitted audio system that came with the test car didn't work very well made it worse. In fact, turning on the radio caused more distractions than anything else. There was just no alternative to rid off the problem except to maintain the 80km/h speed.
Still, the Wrangler Unlimited becomes a rugged funhouse once you place it off-road. After hitting a couple of trail places, we immediately forgot the aforementioned quibbles. The car feels at home and performs how you would expect it to perform without even raising a sweat. It's these kinds of terrain that Jeep has been designed for - muddy sections and favourite bog grass areas.
On the pavements, which is where you'll find yourself most of the time on our roads, the Wrangler Unlimited is sluggish on straight roads. Slamming pedal to the metal will bring about more noise than stirring ferocity, preventing you from dozing off behind the wheel. The 3.8-litre V6 powerplant may not set the roads on fire but it does steers relatively well and holds the road confidently, even around bends.
The only factor that we couldn't forgive the car for was the intrusion of wind and road noise. It feels like there is practically no noise insulation despite the hardtop and it isn't difficult to experience it. The wind becomes your babysitter and starts nagging once you pass the 80km/h mark. And for the fact that the factory-fitted audio system that came with the test car didn't work very well made it worse. In fact, turning on the radio caused more distractions than anything else. There was just no alternative to rid off the problem except to maintain the 80km/h speed.
Still, the Wrangler Unlimited becomes a rugged funhouse once you place it off-road. After hitting a couple of trail places, we immediately forgot the aforementioned quibbles. The car feels at home and performs how you would expect it to perform without even raising a sweat. It's these kinds of terrain that Jeep has been designed for - muddy sections and favourite bog grass areas.
Conclusion
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited isn't made for everyone. And it certainly isn't made for those who prefer smooth ride or luxurious leather benches. It expresses one's sense of adventure and versatility and owners of this rugged monster are proud to acknowledge this fact. In short, there are no other SUVs that can shout about their off-road competence like the Wrangler's.
That said, while the Wrangler Unlimited's off-road capabilities deserve respect, they come at a rather high cost once you get back to your daily drives. It's just a matter of whether you are willing to sacrifice on-road driving pleasure for off-road rock and roll. Personally, on-road seems like a better deal, especially in a lack-of-mud-plug-space-country like ours.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited isn't made for everyone. And it certainly isn't made for those who prefer smooth ride or luxurious leather benches. It expresses one's sense of adventure and versatility and owners of this rugged monster are proud to acknowledge this fact. In short, there are no other SUVs that can shout about their off-road competence like the Wrangler's.
That said, while the Wrangler Unlimited's off-road capabilities deserve respect, they come at a rather high cost once you get back to your daily drives. It's just a matter of whether you are willing to sacrifice on-road driving pleasure for off-road rock and roll. Personally, on-road seems like a better deal, especially in a lack-of-mud-plug-space-country like ours.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
One glance at the Jeep Wrangler and you'll realise that this utilitarian figure has its own dictionary entry. Although Jeep continues to create cars such as the Commander, Compass, Patriot and the recently launched Grand Cherokee for comfort and capability, the Wrangler remains to be the marque's original off-roader and centrepiece.
While it's not the best-selling vehicle in its segment, the Wrangler's rugged image has stood the test of time well and is what gives Jeep credibility. With the motoring market changing beyond recognition, Jeep manages well to keep the Wrangler in place, allowing purists and fans to take solace that the pure off-roader is what they have come to expect from Jeep.
But an influx of comfortable SUVs meant that the giant needed an update. Hence, to appeal to the hardcore off-roaders and Wrangler loyalists, the brand decided to add a four-door model, dubbed the Wrangler Unlimited, to the Wrangler family.
Exterior
Like some of the oversized SUVs in the market, the Wrangler isn't exactly a love at first sight for everyone. Some think it's a crude form of SUV while others reckon it's a statement of life. We simply reckon it's the attitude it possesses which has fascinated its fans.
But that aside, there's a very attractive aura around this car. On longer stares, the Wrangler's unfiltered charm and off-road prowess screams no-nonsense from bumper to bumper. Jeep has managed well with the Wrangler, balancing its boxy squared-off edges and heritage without losing its practical appeal to its fan base.
While it's not the best-selling vehicle in its segment, the Wrangler's rugged image has stood the test of time well and is what gives Jeep credibility. With the motoring market changing beyond recognition, Jeep manages well to keep the Wrangler in place, allowing purists and fans to take solace that the pure off-roader is what they have come to expect from Jeep.
But an influx of comfortable SUVs meant that the giant needed an update. Hence, to appeal to the hardcore off-roaders and Wrangler loyalists, the brand decided to add a four-door model, dubbed the Wrangler Unlimited, to the Wrangler family.
Exterior
Like some of the oversized SUVs in the market, the Wrangler isn't exactly a love at first sight for everyone. Some think it's a crude form of SUV while others reckon it's a statement of life. We simply reckon it's the attitude it possesses which has fascinated its fans.
But that aside, there's a very attractive aura around this car. On longer stares, the Wrangler's unfiltered charm and off-road prowess screams no-nonsense from bumper to bumper. Jeep has managed well with the Wrangler, balancing its boxy squared-off edges and heritage without losing its practical appeal to its fan base.
|
The iconic appearance that continues to feature traditional styling such as rounded headlights and seven-slot grille is still intact. The feel of it is tough and reassuring and unlike higher-end mud-pluggers, the Wrangler is more menacing than grand - which is exactly how it should be. There's just nothing about the vehicle that suggests it will fall apart in years to come.
To put it up front, the Jeep Wrangler has a timeless appeal. Regardless of whether it's the Wrangler or Wrangler Unlimited, make no mistake, purists need not worry that this car will soon fade off in time. Its rugged outlook allows the car to stand alone in the off-road segment and is far too distinctive to be outshined.
|
Interior
At this point in time, it's not so much on how luxurious the interior looks. Potential owners of this mud-plugger probably already have a couple of rides parked in their garage and the addition of the Wrangler will just be for pure rock and roll fun. Plus, given the fact that it is built for off-road purposes, the Wrangler Unlimited that we tested portrayed its intention. Interior fittings look rugged and hard plastics, which feel like they could withstand a thorough beating, are the order of the day.
Comparing it with its shorter brethren, the four-door machismo offers enough space for drivers to bring a couple of buddies out into the wilderness. You could haul a total of five adults with ample head and legroom all round. It's at this point when you'll start to truly appreciate the Wrangler Unlimited over its two-door sibling although the longer look resembles a mini truck.
At this point in time, it's not so much on how luxurious the interior looks. Potential owners of this mud-plugger probably already have a couple of rides parked in their garage and the addition of the Wrangler will just be for pure rock and roll fun. Plus, given the fact that it is built for off-road purposes, the Wrangler Unlimited that we tested portrayed its intention. Interior fittings look rugged and hard plastics, which feel like they could withstand a thorough beating, are the order of the day.
Comparing it with its shorter brethren, the four-door machismo offers enough space for drivers to bring a couple of buddies out into the wilderness. You could haul a total of five adults with ample head and legroom all round. It's at this point when you'll start to truly appreciate the Wrangler Unlimited over its two-door sibling although the longer look resembles a mini truck.
On the pavements, you can still use the car to ferry your family and friends like any other SUVs without them complaining about the lack of space and yet you can choose to throw the car around rougher terrains with reckless abandon should you choose. But as a compromise, the side mirrors has to be adjusted manually which isn't exactly a big deal since it's a one-off thing.
There's no doubt a tinge of tackiness in the overall interior but considering what the car is intended for, it's easy to forgive it. The Wrangler is created neither to be equipped with an array of kit nor with a system that can enable drivers to toggle between terrain options. Simply put it, what you see is what you'll get.
There's no doubt a tinge of tackiness in the overall interior but considering what the car is intended for, it's easy to forgive it. The Wrangler is created neither to be equipped with an array of kit nor with a system that can enable drivers to toggle between terrain options. Simply put it, what you see is what you'll get.
|
The Drive
On the pavements, which is where you'll find yourself most of the time on our roads, the Wrangler Unlimited is sluggish on straight roads. Slamming pedal to the metal will bring about more noise than stirring ferocity, preventing you from dozing off behind the wheel. The 3.8-litre V6 powerplant may not set the roads on fire but it does steers relatively well and holds the road confidently, even around bends.
The only factor that we couldn't forgive the car for was the intrusion of wind and road noise. It feels like there is practically no noise insulation despite the hardtop and it isn't difficult to experience it. The wind becomes your babysitter and starts nagging once you pass the 80km/h mark. And for the fact that the factory-fitted audio system that came with the test car didn't work very well made it worse. In fact, turning on the radio caused more distractions than anything else. There was just no alternative to rid off the problem except to maintain the 80km/h speed.
Still, the Wrangler Unlimited becomes a rugged funhouse once you place it off-road. After hitting a couple of trail places, we immediately forgot the aforementioned quibbles. The car feels at home and performs how you would expect it to perform without even raising a sweat. It's these kinds of terrain that Jeep has been designed for - muddy sections and favourite bog grass areas.
On the pavements, which is where you'll find yourself most of the time on our roads, the Wrangler Unlimited is sluggish on straight roads. Slamming pedal to the metal will bring about more noise than stirring ferocity, preventing you from dozing off behind the wheel. The 3.8-litre V6 powerplant may not set the roads on fire but it does steers relatively well and holds the road confidently, even around bends.
The only factor that we couldn't forgive the car for was the intrusion of wind and road noise. It feels like there is practically no noise insulation despite the hardtop and it isn't difficult to experience it. The wind becomes your babysitter and starts nagging once you pass the 80km/h mark. And for the fact that the factory-fitted audio system that came with the test car didn't work very well made it worse. In fact, turning on the radio caused more distractions than anything else. There was just no alternative to rid off the problem except to maintain the 80km/h speed.
Still, the Wrangler Unlimited becomes a rugged funhouse once you place it off-road. After hitting a couple of trail places, we immediately forgot the aforementioned quibbles. The car feels at home and performs how you would expect it to perform without even raising a sweat. It's these kinds of terrain that Jeep has been designed for - muddy sections and favourite bog grass areas.
Conclusion
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited isn't made for everyone. And it certainly isn't made for those who prefer smooth ride or luxurious leather benches. It expresses one's sense of adventure and versatility and owners of this rugged monster are proud to acknowledge this fact. In short, there are no other SUVs that can shout about their off-road competence like the Wrangler's.
That said, while the Wrangler Unlimited's off-road capabilities deserve respect, they come at a rather high cost once you get back to your daily drives. It's just a matter of whether you are willing to sacrifice on-road driving pleasure for off-road rock and roll. Personally, on-road seems like a better deal, especially in a lack-of-mud-plug-space-country like ours.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited isn't made for everyone. And it certainly isn't made for those who prefer smooth ride or luxurious leather benches. It expresses one's sense of adventure and versatility and owners of this rugged monster are proud to acknowledge this fact. In short, there are no other SUVs that can shout about their off-road competence like the Wrangler's.
That said, while the Wrangler Unlimited's off-road capabilities deserve respect, they come at a rather high cost once you get back to your daily drives. It's just a matter of whether you are willing to sacrifice on-road driving pleasure for off-road rock and roll. Personally, on-road seems like a better deal, especially in a lack-of-mud-plug-space-country like ours.
What do you think? Jot down your opinions at the comment box below.
Photos by Julian Kho
Car Information
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 3.8 (A)
CAT B|Petrol|8km/L
Horsepower
151kW (202 bhp)
Torque
315 Nm
Acceleration
-
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara
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