Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport 2010 Review

Real offroaders are few and far between these days -- the image of offroad capability seemingly more important than its actual application. But quietly plodding away in the background is a stalwart of the sector that somehow manages to achieve both – and with a fair level of competence.

At this end of the fiduciary spectrum there are not too many vehicles that can compete with Wrangler Unlimited offroad. Indeed, if you want the practicality of four doors only one other springs to mind: the Land Rover Defender 110, even if it is a hefty $10K dearer.

That said, the Wrangler Unlimited does offer more equipment than its British adversary, including airbags, stability control and the option of a five-speed automatic transmission (as fitted to our test vehicle). These may seem like trivial inclusions to some off-road enthusiasts, but the self-shifter alone increases Wrangler's appeal to trendy offroad wannabes, while also making good use of the petrol engine's modest torque curve.

Wrangler Unlimited is available in two model guises, Sport (as tested) and Rubicon. It also offers a choice of turbocharged diesel or normally aspirated petrol mills, the latter under evaluation in this review.

Developing 146kW and 315Nm, the 3.8-litre petrol engine is capable in its road performance, losing little in the way of acceleration despite a change in rear differential ratio with the MY10 revision (4.10:1 to 3.73:1). Jeep claims the alteration was made to improve Wrangler Unlimited's fuel economy, the combined ADR figure now tallying 11.9L/100km. But we couldn't get anywhere near this result with our week of on and offroad driving netting a return of 16.0L/100km on the specified 91 RON unleaded petrol.

Arriving sans the optional 'Off-road Pack', our Bright Silver Metallic Wrangler Unlimited omitted the electronically-controlled locking rear differential and front sway bar disconnect (also electronically-controlled) that may have assisted through the more trying terrain of Bunyip State Forest.

The road-bias 'all-terrain' tyres also lacked the aggressive tread pattern needed to plough through heavy mud, effectively turning them into slicks over soggy terrain. No matter how much promise Jeep's renowned 'Command-Trac' four-wheel drive system displayed, the compromised tyre choice was no match for such sloppy ground. Lucky we took the shovel.

Tyre choice aside Wrangler Unlimited's longer wheelbase, full chassis and coil-sprung live axles managed to soak up all the potholes and ruts of rough bush tracks with little fuss. On the open road Wrangler Unlimited was again smooth underfoot, and surprisingly bereft of the noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) issues one would generally associated with such a vehicle.

The vital offroad stats see Wrangler Unlimited boast a 38.4 degree approach angle (same as SWB models) and 31.4 degree departure angle. As you'd expect from a LWB version break over angle is less impressive at 20.8 degrees, roughly 5 degrees less than SWB variants. Ground clearance is 267mm up front and 257mm at the rear.

Up front seating is comfortable, although the same could not be said in the rear. Back seat passengers complained of inadequate padding and an upright seating position that made for uncomfortable longer trips.

Driving position is pretty much spot on for Wrangler's orientation, though you will need to sit a little close to the steering wheel in order to maximise throttle travel. Indicator and wiper stalks are easy to use (wiper control is particularly comprehensive), even if the indicator arm is mounted too close to the centre stack. This will most certainly change when the dash is overhauled with next year's model.

Annoyingly there's no footrest, power mirrors or reach adjustment from the steering column. Otherwise, the equipment list both inside and out is sufficient with power windows, remote central locking, cruise control, front and rear fog lamps, alloy wheels, twin 12-volt power outlets, basic trip computer and tilt adjustable steering included as standard.

Further, and new to 2010 models, Chrysler's 'U-Connect' Bluetooth enabled audio system with MP3 compatible CD player and auxiliary plug-in deliver tunes through six speakers and rear subwoofer.

Best of all, for those who like to play in the mud, Wrangler features a easily cleanable 'Wash-Out' interior. The removable roof is also a bit of fun.

On the safety front, Wrangler scores a five-star NHTSA frontal impact rating and includes antilock disc brakes (302 x 28mm front, 316 x 12mm rear) specially programmed for added stopping assistance off-road, emergency brake assist, stability control, all-speed traction control (yes, it even works in 4LO) and electronic roll mitigation. Front and side airbags are also fitted.

If you plan to use Wrangler Unlimited to its full purpose, 498-litre of cargo capacity is available behind the seats or 935-litres with the 60:40 splitfold rear seat flipped forward. If that's not enough, a 2300kg braked towing capacity is also available. Be aware though, with the fibreglass roof, any rack load is very limited.

With summer coming, Wrangler's removable top is a big drawcard, and with such capable offroad performance, the argument's pretty hard to beat. Sure, it's a little rough and ready around town when compared to fleshy softroad rivals, but if you want to get there and get back without breaking the bank, Wrangler wins hands down.

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