Jeep Wrangler has been produced since 1987. Since then, there have been four generations of the model. During this time the car managed to become a cult among motorists from different countries. Although created for the military needs of the army. In today’s article, we will consider the Wrangler of the third generation (JK), and even more unusual version, and tuned, prepared specifically for off-roading.
Jeep Wrangler JK exterior
Many automakers dramatically change the exterior of their models with the release of a new generation. But Jeep has kept the Wrangler in the design style of its grandfather – military off-roader Willys MB, which was produced from 1941 to 1945. Thanks to this model has retained its identity and have not lost its uniqueness.
The first one is the black color “Raptor”, which is not afraid to scratch. Second – non-standard off-road tires, size 35X12.50R17, which increased clearance. The third is wheel arch extenders, as well as snorkel, winch, reinforced bumper with protection and additional fog lights.
LED optics – shines better and looks more interesting than halogen headlights.
The Wrangler’s doors and roof are removed. Thus it turns into an off-road convertible.
The four-door version is called Unlimited, and Rubicon means a prepared version for off-road with a different gear ratio in the transmission and inter-axle locks. In our case, it is the Sport version, which has undergone modifications.
Jeep Wrangler JK interior
Additional side thresholds were installed to make it easier to get into the cabin.
In the interior, the feeling of an unusual car is lost. Because the interior is ordinary and stands out only with red leather trim. It is not necessary to speak about the high quality of materials. For example, a lever of a transmission and a transfer gearbox is hard to change. One has to look for heating buttons of seats – they are located on the outer wall of the armrest. But it is not desirable to pick on it specially, because the car is not new anymore. Besides, it is a frame SUV, but not a crossover.
The inscription on the front panel – “Jeep – Since 1941” shows the connection with the legendary Willys MB.
Jeep Wrangler JK trunk
The trunk door is divided into two parts. The lower part opens first, then the upper part.
The volume of the luggage compartment is 498 liters, and with the folded backrests of the rear seats, increases to 935 liters.
Jeep Wrangler JK body structure
The Wrangler is a classic frame SUV. That is, if you detach the body and lift it up, the wheels, suspension, engine, transmission remain on the frame. Accordingly, the suspension is a dependent spring suspension on the longitudinal arms with a stabilizer bar.
Jeep Wrangler JK Engine and transmission
Under the hood is a 3.8-liter gasoline V6 (EGT) engine with a cast-iron cylinder block, distributed fuel injection and a chain in the timing belt. The engine has 199 horsepower and 315 newton-meters of torque at 4,000 rpm. According to sensations, the engine pulls well for almost two-ton car, but one does not want to drive fast. And the drivability is not the best. It is not convenient to drive above 100-110 km/h. There is 4-speed automatic gearbox. The versions with turbodiesel 2.8 and gasoline 3.6, 3.8 liter have 6-speed manual transmission or 5-speed automatic transmission.
How the Jeep Wrangler JK has all-wheel drive
The car has a rear-wheel-drive axle, but it is possible to engage the front axle by engaging 4H mode. If you move the transfer case lever to the N position, the transfer case neutral position, suitable for towing, is engaged. 4L – stands for downshifting, which is recommended in difficult off-road conditions. There is no center differential, the axles are connected hard through the transfer case.
The Rubicon version adds a locking inter-axle differential. The Rubicon’s Rock-Trac transfer case has a downshift ratio of 4:1, while the other Command-Trac models have a ratio of 2.72:1.
The Rubicon also has the SWAY BAR feature, which disconnects the front anti-roll bar and the car has significantly increased front suspension travel.
It is not recommended to drive at speeds above 80 km/h in all-wheel-drive mode 4H, as it puts a great strain on the components. Therefore, under normal conditions, it is better to select rear-wheel-drive model 2H.
Conclusion
The exterior of even the standard car attracts outside looks, not to mention the tuned version. A timeless classic that will please its owner for many years to come.