The Jeep Wrangler has been around for as long as some adults have been alive. But the current JL generation only got its start in 2018. But that doesn’t keep Jeep from updating and improving one of their most popular models. In this preview guide, we’ll walk you through the changes that have come about this year and why the Wrangler continues to be a bestseller.
The 2020 Jeep Wrangler doesn’t look any different from its predecessors on the outside. But pop the hood and you’ll see a world of change. The 285-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 that’s standard on every Wrangler can now be made a mild hybrid with e-Torque assist in the Sahara trim level. The V6 goes from zero to 60 mph in just 7 seconds. Then there’s the optional turbocharged 2-liter, four-cylinder available on any Wrangler for additional power. A little bit into the model year, expect to see the 3-liter V-6 EcoDiesel to debut. This diesel engine will be exclusive to Unlimited models and promises to deliver 260 hp and 442 pound-feet of boulder-crawling torque.
The other new addition is the optional packages, including the off-road-friendly Wrangler Willys Edition that adds a limited-slip rear differential, aggressive rock rails, and thick 32-inch mud-terrain tires. A Wrangler Freedom Edition honors U.S. military members with special interior and exterior stylistic touches. The Wrangler Black and Tan package includes a tan soft top and black exterior badging.
Jeep has made a name for themselves in off-roading, and the 2020 Wrangler lives up to that reputation. Any Wrangler is competent off the beaten path, but the very best trim level for off-roading is the Wrangler Rubicon with its big all-terrain tires, lockable differentials and front electronically disconnecting stabilizer bar. Remove the top and doors to get in touch with the wind and sky.
Which Wrangler Is Right for Me?
Despite appearances, there are really only three trim levels with lots of customization possible. Those three are the Sport, Sahara, and Rubicon. The Unlimited moniker can be applied to any trim level and simply refers to the four-door configuration. You can get yours in a hardtop or soft-top convertible configuration.
The Wrangler Sport is your most basic model, but still affords 17-inch steel wheels, skid plates, tow hooks, fog lights, removable full metal doors with crank windows, a fold-down windshield, manual mirrors and locks, cruise control, push-button start, height-adjustable driver's seat with two-way lumbar adjustment, and one-piece folding rear seat. Cabin tech includes a 5-inch touchscreen, rearview camera, Bluetooth, eight-speaker sound system, and USB port.
The Sahara only comes as four-door Jeep and adds 18-inch wheels, heavy-duty brakes and suspension, hardtop, rear window defroster and washer, all-terrain tires, side rails, larger driver information display, 7-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone compatibility.
The Rubicon is the off-roading pinnacle of compact Jeeps and has all the goodies we listed above. Each trim level can be modified with several packages and sublevels, so let the dealer know what you need and they can set you up with the perfect Jeep Wrangler for you.