For decades, the Wrangler was the unsurpassed master of the trail, generally accepted as the single-best option for anyone interested in an SUV to take off-road. There are plenty of Jeep models that can handle dirt and gravel roads and some that are even Trail Rated for the best off-road performance possible, but even they couldn’t compete with the Wrangler. Then, Ford released the Bronco a few years ago, and everything changed; suddenly, the Wrangler not only had competition but SERIOUS competition, and from a vehicle designed expressly to challenge it in its own domain.
Ever since the Bronco’s release, Jeep has been pretty quiet about firing back at Ford, but they weren’t simply ceding victory to the Bronco—just biding their time. With the 2024 Jeep Wrangler, we finally see a response from the legend of the trail—not in words but in actions. The new Wrangler has received numerous updates and has become more capable than ever, ready to reclaim its position as the king of off-road performance. Let’s take a look at what’s new for the 2024 model year and how this is the Jeep that many of us have been waiting for.
Improved Standard Tech Features
In looking at the updates for the new 2024 Wrangler, the first thing that jumps out to me is the vastly improved tech features, particularly since this update is across all models and not just an available option. A gorgeous 12.3-inch infotainment display is now standard as a best-in-class touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto coming standard. What’s more, this big tech update includes the Uconnect 5 system, which runs faster than previous systems and really takes advantage of the large screen and other features.
This tech isn’t just for show either, as the updated Uconnect 5 system with the Wrangler features the first factory application for “Trails Offroad” trail guides in a vehicle; this includes guides for all 62 trails that have earned the Jeep Badge of Honor, which come pre-loaded in the new system and can be easily viewed on the large screen. Trails include the Rubicon in California, Black Bear Pass and Holy Cross in Colorado, numerous trails around Moab in Utah, and many more across the US. If you want even more, a subscription will give you access to over 3,000 additional guides of varying difficulties from Trails Offroad, which are ready to take you anywhere you can imagine.
Also, with this new Uconnect 5 system, you can configure up to five user profiles, each able to record custom music preferences, climate controls, and more for different drivers. With support for over-the-air (OTA) updates, it’s easy to keep Uconnect 5 updated; it even supports OTA updates for maps used by the available built-in navigation system. Overall, this infotainment system is better than ever, and it works beautifully with the large touchscreen; this display has been heavily criticized in recent years, so I love seeing Jeep listen and get it right.
More 4xe Options
Although some folks were skeptical about the broad appeal of a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version of the Jeep Wrangler, the Wrangler 4xe has proven quite popular. So popular, in fact, that the Wrangler 4xe has become the best-selling PHEV in America since its release, and Jeep is responding to that in the best way possible: making it more accessible.
Previously, the 4xe PHEV option was only available for high trims like the Sahara and Rubicon, which were great but also put them out of reach of some drivers. For the 2024 model, there’s now a Wrangler Sport S 4xe available, creating a lower entry point for anyone interested in experiencing off-road performance in a PHEV.
The new Rubicon X trim (more on that in a moment) is also available as a PHEV model, making for a total of four different 4xe options. There’s also a new Jeep 4xe Power Box available this year, which has four 120V power outlets and 30A of total power available, allowing you to utilize the PHEV battery to charge external devices. This great addition creates new options for powering devices while on the trail, which could be an honest-to-goodness lifesaver.
Improved Off-Road Capability
Speaking of hitting the trail, the updates for the new 2024 Wrangler aren’t all just big screens and PHEV; it’s also getting even better at what it does best: going off-road. For one thing, an updated Willys model offers excellent capability thanks to larger tires, improved ground clearance, and high fender flares. Combined with better traction, this new option creates an affordable model that still delivers enhanced off-road performance over the standard Wrangler Sport or Sport S.
The Rubicon has long been the pinnacle off-road option for the Wrangler, and it’s getting even better for 2024 with a host of new features and options. A new Dana 44 HD full-float solid rear axle is one of the biggest updates for the Rubicon, allowing for increased tire upsizing by drivers and support for up to 5,000 lbs of towing. Up to a 100:1 crawl ratio is now available for the Rubicon, depending on your assembly, and there’s an available factory-installed 8,000-lb-capacity Warn winch that makes the Rubicon the perfect option for helping someone out of a bind.
Joining the Wrangler lineup for 2024 is an all-new Rubicon X trim that builds on the legendary reputation of the Rubicon and takes it even further. The Rubicon X comes with beadlock-capable wheels wrapped in 35-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires, an integrated off-road camera, and steel bumpers to help protect it no matter how rough things get out there. As I mentioned earlier, this new trim level is available with the 4xe PHEV powertrain; it also features 12-way power-adjustable front seats, a nine-speaker Alpine sound system, and much more.
Revised and Updated Exterior
Looks aren’t everything, but I still like to see companies update their vehicles—and the new 2024 Wrangler is getting the proverbial fresh coat of paint. Although it retains numerous traditional design cues (this is unmistakably still a Jeep Wrangler), the 2024 model features an updated overall look, particularly on high-end trims like the Rubicon and High Altitude. The new trail-ready stealth antenna is integrated into the front windshield rather than as a steel mast antenna, allowing for a sleeker overall look while eliminating the potential for snagging on low-hanging branches.
Ten new wheel designs are available, in case that’s important to you, including a range of options from 17- to 20-inch sizes. A new premium soft top is standard, with two available hard tops and an exclusive Sky One-Touch power top, plus many more options for roof and door configurations. When you combine all of this with ten exterior color options, including the return of the slate-gray Anvil, you have plenty of options for some serious customization.
The Wrangler Holds the Throne
So, at the end of the day, what more could we possibly want from the Wrangler? Not much. Aside from a full redesign and the launch of a new generation, these major updates and refresh we’re getting with the new 2024 model are plenty to keep us satisfied.
Personally, I appreciate that Jeep is looking to offer something for a wide range of potential customers: from the standard 12.3-inch infotainment display and accessible 4xe models to the incredible capability of the new Rubicon X trim, no one is left out. Whether this is enough to convince potential Bronco-buyers to go with a Wrangler instead remains to be seen, but innovation is always welcome in the auto industry.
