With an all-new Wrangler set to make its debut in 2018, this year’s Jeep Wrangler boasts only a few, small changes.
The 2017 Jeep Wrangler has been updated with LED head and fog lamps which is standard on Sahara and Rubicon trims and optional on Wrangler Sport and Sport S.
Not that most of us in South Florida will be needing it, but this year’s Wrangler now offers an optional cold-weather package. The package includes heated seats, an engine-coolant heater, 17-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain TA KO2 tires, heated power mirrors, keyless remote entry, one-touch power windows, power locks, and heavy-duty all-weather floor mats.
The 2017 Jeep Wrangler’s best feature is that it has go-anywhere capabilities — something that, luckily for Jeep, has been difficult for others to replicate. In fact, the Wrangler is just about the only option on the market right now that provides such solid off-roading performance at a attainable price. Its body-on-frame construction is the antidote for rough, off-road punishment.
Other features that prepare the Wrangler for unforgiving terrain include: a good amount of ground clearance, hill-descent control, short wheelbases, electronic front sway bar disconnect, the front anti-roll bar, underbody skidplates, rigid front and rear axles with locking differentials, and approach and departure angles make the 2017 Jeep Wrangler the benchmark for all off-road vehicles.
This year’s Wrangler comes in two body styles — the two-door Wrangler and four-door Wrangler Unlimited. However, passengers would probably prefer the extra rear seat space of the Wrangler Unlimited and those who need to lug items will like its extra cargo space.
In addition to body styles, the Wrangler comes in several trims which include the Sport, S Sport, Sahara and Rubicon. In these trims you can adjust the Wrangler’s focus — whether that be a sportier performance or a more luxurious experience.
The 2017 Wrangler not only has a plethora of features to improve its ability to take on even the rockiest of roads and unpaved paths, but this year also includes several interior features. The Unlimited Rubicon trim, like the one we test drove, includes some of the following features: Sentry key theft deterrent, trailer sway damping, remote keyless entry, auto-dimming mirrors, audio jack input, remote start system, eight-speaker sound system, steering wheel mounted audio controls and leather wrapped steering wheels.
The 2017 Wrangler remains a bit rough around the edges, but considering its history, and where it can take you, it is definitely doable in comparison to previous generations. The Wrangler has molted its plastic finishings and has replaced them with a modern instrument panel that is ergonomically designed, with soft-touch materials in a few, key areas. Despite its less rugged looks, it can still be hosed down after a muddy run.
Although the 2017 Jeep Wrangler has not changed drastically from the previous model year, it has undergone some minor improvements such as its new LED lighting and its more upscale interior. The Wrangler is in a great position— you would be hard-pressed to find an equally as capable off roading vehicle for a similarly attractive price.
The MSRP for the 2017 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon is $37,445.
