When it comes to off-roading, the Jeep brand has been there and done that for more than 80 years. From the Willys MB that was designed to help the United States Army navigate the toughest of terrain during World War II to the newest lineup of Jeep models, the brand has off-roading down to an art. What’s behind the famed off-roading capabilities? If you’re looking at a 2025 Jeep Wrangler for sale, the answer to that question is four dynamic 4×4 systems, each equipped for specific terrain and driving styles.
These 4×4 systems are Command-Trac, Rock-Trac Part-Time, Rock-Trac Full-Time, and Selec-Trac. Every 2025 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with one of these systems—which one depends on the trim. We’ll explore each of the systems below, giving you a look at what makes them tick and which one might be the best match for your driving needs.
Command-Trac: Jeep’s All-Terrain Classic
Command-Trac is Jeep’s iconic 4×4 technology, noted for its versatility and uncompromising reliability in a variety of terrains. Command-Trac, which is found standard on most Wrangler trims, is a traditional part-time technology that is intended for off-road use and tough weather conditions rather than daily highway travel. When four-wheel drive is not engaged, this system sends power to the rear wheels. When four-wheel drive is engaged, Command-Trac system uses a two-speed transfer case to distribute power evenly between the front and rear axles, providing adequate torque for excellent grip.
The 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio improves handling on uneven trails and steep inclines. You’ll have to manually switch from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive high to four-wheel drive low to respond to whatever terrain comes your way. Also included is a neutral mode, which is perfect for flat towing. Flat towing means pulling a vehicle while all four of its wheels remain on the ground without the use of a trailer or dolly. Some models offer a limited slip rear differential, which helps distribute power between the rear wheels for added traction.
Command-Trac is ideal for drivers seeking a mix of on-road comfort and off-road capabilities. It is appropriate for trails, sand, snow, and mud, making it an excellent alternative for adventurers who might not always find themselves in the thick of things but who do require a tough and rugged system they can rely on when they decide to take things off-road.
Rock-Trac: The Ultimate Off-Road Specialist
Rock-Trac increases 4×4 capability for when you want to take things to the next level. This is the system for serious off-road enthusiasts that drive their Wranglers to their limits. As mentioned above, there is both a part-time and a full-time Rock-Trac system. While the main difference between the two seems apparent by the name, there are a few other key differences to consider.
Full-time Rock-Trac automatically switches from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive on its own, without input from you. This can be a good thing, as it takes away any hesitancy you might have as to whether it’s needed or not. Additionally, full-time Rock-Trac can be used safely on all road surfaces. This differs from the part-time system, which you would only engage when you’re actually off-roading or driving in slippery conditions.
Rock-Trac’s two-speed transfer case and 4:1 low-range gear ratio provide superior crawling control on tough terrain. It also has Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials on both the front and rear axles, which prevent wheel spin by locking the wheels of each axle together. When the terrain becomes more difficult, the electronic sway bar disconnect feature allows for increased wheel articulation, allowing each tire to remain in contact with the ground for better grip.
With Rock-Trac, the Wrangler can travel at low speeds without losing traction, which gives you the control you need to navigate steep hills, rocky terrain, and more. If you spend more time on the trail than on paved roads, this is the 4×4 system to consider. You’ll find it standard on the Rubicon and Rubicon X trim levels.
Selec-Trac, The All-Weather Warrior
Selec-Trac is a more versatile, full-time 4×4 system that gives daily drivers the support they need to navigate a wide range of road and weather situations. Selec-Trac is a sophisticated 4×4 technology that automatically shifts between two-wheel and four-wheel drive depending on road conditions. This is Jeep’s most user-friendly 4×4 technology, requiring minimal driver engagement.
Selec-Trac’s full-time transfer case has the ability to sense traction loss and distribute power to all four wheels immediately. The system’s “set it and forget it” feature makes it perfect for highway driving, wet pavement, winter roads, and light off-road terrain. It also has a 2.72:1 low-range gearbox for moderate off-road capability when necessary.
Select-Trac is best suited for drivers who want to use their Wrangler for daily travel while also being able to handle rugged terrain or severe weather. It’s ideal for those who live in places with unpredictable weather or who intend to drive their Wrangler on a variety of surfaces without having to manually select four-wheel drive.
Choosing the Right 4×4 System for You
When selecting the best 4×4 system for your Jeep Wrangler, you should examine your regular driving habits as well as the types of adventures you plan to take. With four different options, you’re sure to find the one that best meets your needs. For instance, if you’re a part-time adventurer who enjoys mild off-roading on the weekends but prefers a smooth, comfortable ride on paved roads during the week, the Command-Trac system is an excellent choice. It delivers the necessary 4×4 capabilities while maintaining everyday driving comfort and efficiency.
Rock-Trac, on the other hand, is the ideal solution for drivers who enjoy rugged trails and heavy rock crawling. It provides unrivaled off-road performance with increased control and torque, making it ideal for tackling difficult terrain and steep inclines.
Finally, if you want to strike a balance between highway driving and off-road capability, the Selec-Trac system may be ideal. It offers a full-time four-wheel drive experience, allowing you to seamlessly shift from smooth highways to rougher, more unpredictable terrains without the need for manual intervention. This makes it a perfect choice for drivers who require all-weather capability, from rain-soaked highways to snow-covered paths, ensuring peace of mind during the journey.
There’s a Wrangler for Every Terrain
Regardless of the 4×4 system you choose, the 2025 Jeep Wrangler offers a distinct level of versatility and capability, making it one of the most popular off-road vehicles on the market. Whether you’re headed out to tackle mountains, rocky terrain, mud, and sand—or you simply want a durable vehicle that can easily manage unpredictable weather—there’s a Wrangler 4×4 system to meet your demands.
Additionally, you’ll find that Jeep’s devotion to performance and adventure is evident in every model. From its tough construction and traditional solid axles to features that prioritize comfort and safety, the Wrangler combines rugged engineering with ease of use, allowing drivers to go further with confidence. Ultimately, choosing the right Wrangler and 4×4 system for your needs is more than just selecting a vehicle; it is about joining a history of exploration and resilience that Jeep has cultivated for more than 80 years.
