Look out, Jeep fans, here comes another special-edition Wrangler for you to lust after — the new 2011 Mojave Special Edition. It’s the fourth Wrangler SE model Jeep has introduced in the past two years.
This new Jeep is named for the rugged western desert Mojave Trail and has a unique desert theme inside and out, along with an aggressive wheel and tire package that lets it tackle the toughest terrain. It’s available in Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited models and began arriving in Jeep showrooms earlier this summer.
Based on the Wrangler Sport model, the Mojave’s desert theme conveys off-road fun. Exterior features include a body-color hardtop and fender flares, Mojave and lizard decals on the hood and rear, and the Sahara model’s side steps. Mojave has the Wrangler Rubicon tire-and-wheel package, with mineral gray 17-inch wheels with 32-inch tires. A black fuel-filler door and taillight guards finish off the exterior decor.
Inside, Mojave’s seats are dark saddle leather with a lizard logo embossed on the front seats. Unique driftwood surrounds the vents, front-passenger grab handle, steering-wheel spokes and door-handle inserts. Mopar tread pattern slush mats and overhead grab handles complete the Mojave package. It’s available in Sahara Tan, Bright White and Black.
The Wrangler is offered in three models — Sport, Sahara and Rubicon — all with solid axles, removable doors, exposed hinges, a fold-down windshield plus removable and convertible tops. Both Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited have room for five adults, and the Wrangler Unlimited claims to be the only four-door convertible on the market today.
All Jeep Wrangler models are powered by a 3.8-liter V-6 engine producing 202 hp and 237 pounds-feet of torque, mated to a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an available four-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep continues to refine the Wrangler formula by combining capability with an all-new interior that has rich styling, upgraded touch surfaces, comfort and versatility. New interior highlights include a redesigned instrument panel and new storage areas with improved ergonomics and upgraded materials.
There’s a new lockable console and upgraded door armrest areas, while a redesigned center stack is easier to reach and operate. Heated power mirrors are available, and both drivers and passengers have better visibility through larger rear windows.
New steering-wheel controls let the driver operate the radio, cruise control, handsfree phone and other vehicle functions while keeping hands on the wheel. A new USB interface connects to storage devices for use with the vehicle’s Media Center, including streaming Bluetooth audio. Twelve-volt accessory outlets have been added and a new 110-volt outlet is available to provide power similar to AC outlets in the home.
Base price on the Jeep Wrangler Mojave option is $29,195, excluding $750 destination charge.
Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to LetsTalkCars@aol.com.
