The Jeep Wrangler is something special, but in a lot of ways, it makes absolutely no sense. Now calm down Jeep lovers – I’m not disparaging your beloved company nor am I criticizing the Wrangler’s design or function. From a practical standpoint, however, it’s a two-door mini-SUV with a convertible top and fold-down windshield – for a vehicle design in 2019, that’s absolute madness. But that is exactly what I love about the 2019 Jeep Wrangler – in an industry so often about following the lead of other companies, the Wrangler stands alone.
While 2018 was a big redesign year for the Jeep Wrangler, 2019 is more about refining what they have done and providing something unique for Jeep lovers. The tightrope that Jeep has walked for years now is to make a vehicle that feels modern and new, without losing the personality that has made the Wrangler an icon for so many drivers. With multiple trim levels to choose from, a great engine, and all the bells and whistles you would expect from a 2019 model year vehicle, the 2019 Jeep Wrangler manages to do just that.
The Available Engines
At this time there are two engines available for the 2019 Jeep Wrangler, but it is entirely possible that over the next few months there could be more choices available. Even without any additions, however, the two available engines should work for just about all drivers. The standard engine is a 3.6L V6 that provides 285hp and up to 260 lb.-ft. of torque and runs on regular unleaded gas. This beauty should be able to get the job done for just about anyone and offers 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
There is an optional 2.0L I-4 engine that offers 270hp and up to 295 lb.-ft. of torque, which runs on premium unleaded gas. As you can quickly see, the optional engine gives you a bit less horsepower, but you get more torque out of it. Personally, I think the standard engine is ideal for most drivers, but there will certainly be some folks out there who can make good use of that extra torque, particularly off-road, and it’s great to have the second engine as an option.
Available Packages – From Smoking to Safety
There are quite a few different packages for the 2019 Jeep Wrangler available, and some of these may come standard at certain trim levels, so keep that in mind as you weigh your options. Some of these packages are pretty minor adjustments, for example the Smoker’s Group includes a cigar lighter and removable ash tray. If those two features are particularly important to you, then that’s a nice option to have, but it’s not really a definitive change.
The Cold Weather Group, on the other hand, includes heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. These are not strictly necessary features, but anyone who plans on driving up into the mountains for some skiing or who likes off-roading in the winter is going to like having them available. Similarly, the Convenience Group adds a universal garage door opener, which brings nice functionality to the table, but isn’t exactly essential if you already have an opener you leave in your car.
On the other hand, the Trailer Tow & HD Electrical Group brings a lot of great features to the 2019 Jeep Wrangler and is well worth considering. Not only does it improve the alternator and battery, which is great for increased reliability while going off-road, but it also adds a Class II receiver hitch for better towing functionality.
Then there is the Safety Group, which is one of the most important packages on just about any vehicle. It includes features like blind spot detection, LED tail lamps, and rear park assist. You might not immediately think of rear park assist as a necessary feature for a Jeep, but the first time it keeps you from backing into a tree stump you can’t see from your mirror, you’ll be happy you have it.
Trim Levels
So far we’ve seen at least four trim levels for the 2019 Jeep Wrangler, but there may be more revealed and made available over the next few months. The Sport is the base model of the Jeep Wrangler and gives you the basics you need, but lacks much in the way of extra bells and whistles. It has a smaller Infotainment screen than the other trim levels and a pretty simple speaker setup, though it includes standard features like Bluetooth connectivity and a rearview camera.
The Sport S is the next step up and includes all the basic Sport features, but with a few extra amenities and available options. This includes things like a larger touchscreen display and a more detailed interior. If the Sport S is not enough of an improvement, then there is the Jeep Wrangler Sahara, which steps up the luxury options to include a 7-inch Infotainment system and a 7-inch instrument cluster, along with dual-zone climate control and support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
For those who prefer to take their 2019 Jeep Wrangler off-road, there is the legendary Rubicon trim level, which includes more options and standard features for off-roading. This includes things like larger tires, front and rear locking axles, a superior 4WD system, and additional features.
Available Options – Innovations Inside and Out
What’s so great about the 2019 Jeep Wrangler is that it has clearly been designed with an eye toward the past, but without ignoring the present and future. You still get a convertible top and removable rear window like you would expect, but features like a Navigation system with voice activation and standard Bluetooth compatibility remind you that this is a modern vehicle. There are multiple 12V power outlets, steering wheel audio controls, and voice-activated media control so you can adjust your music without ever taking your hands or eyes off the road.
The safety features of the 2019 Jeep Wrangler are also quite impressive, with many of them standard on the Sahara and Rubicon trim levels. These include things like parking assist, keyless access and a panic alarm, and low tire pressure warnings. The blind spot detector is great for on and off the road, and there are numerous front and side airbags for both the driver and front passenger.
Final Analysis
All-too-often the auto industry is just content to keep doing what we expect without innovating, or a manufacturer will simply follow the lead of someone else. The 2019 Jeep Wrangler stands as a testament to the fact that a designer can stay true to its history and reputation, while still giving us something new to chew on. The new Wranglers might not be as startling as they were in 2018 thanks to the complete redesign, but that does not make them any less impressive.
From the excellent engine and robust off-road package and feature choices to safety options and interior comforts, everything comes together in the Jeep Wrangler to make a vehicle that just works. It might not be for everyone – it certainly can’t compare to a full-size traditional SUV for hauling around 5 people and a bunch of luggage – but for those looking for a Jeep, it’s a simple and elegant answer. There’s something reassuring about knowing the 2019 Jeep Wrangler is everything you would expect it to be, while still packing a few pleasant surprises.
