Performance
Although the Jeep Wrangler is well known for being an off-roading vehicle, it is also known for its customizations. This isn’t limited to the removable roof and doors. Jeep Wrangler customizations can be extended to the powertrain as well as you can choose between three engine options.
The Standard V6 Engine
The standard powertrain is centered around a 3.6-liter V6 motor that is paired with either an 8-speed automatic transmission or a 6-speed manual transmission. This engine can produce 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. This is a great pick for people who love to have the most control of the vehicle. The average fuel economy is rated at 20 MPG combined (17 city/25 highway), and it can haul 3,500 pounds easily. You can also opt for the eTorque mild hybrid system with this powertrain for the ultimate rock crawling experience.
A Four-Cylinder Option
The second powertrain option is a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder motor coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This fuel-efficient model generates 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, and it gets 23 MPG combined (22 city/24 highway). Like the standard powertrain, the one may also be fitted with the eTorque mild hybrid system for optimized rock crawling capabilities.
A Diesel Engine Option
Lastly, if you prefer diesel, you can opt for the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6. While it's able to produce 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque, this powertrain has the highest fuel economy averaging at 25 MPG combined (22 city/29 highway). It also isn’t available on every 2020 Jeep Wrangler model, so you'll have to look for a specific trim.
Off-Road Capability
If geography wasn’t your favorite subject in school, you’re about to change your mind. The new 2020 Jeep Wrangler not only offers exceptional performance in the streets, but it also offers it on every type of terrain you can find.
What Makes the Wrangler Off-Road Ready?
Every new Wrangler is marked with the Trail Rated badge. This prestigious title means that vehicle was put through a series of rigorous tests to ensure peak performance at all times. This includes the ability to withstand inclement weather, rough terrain, and extremely hard conditions. On top of that, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon has also been recognized by the Texas Auto Writers Association as the best Off-Road SUV of Texas for the 10th consecutive year. Let’s take a look at some of the off-roading highlights that make this vehicle so tough.
- 4x4 Systems - The 4x4 system offered by Jeep allows power to be transferred from the engine to the appropriate wheels, which means better traction while traveling over uneven/rocky terrain.
- Selec-Trac 4x4 System - All 2020 Jeep Wrangler Sahara models come with this particular system, which allows you to switch between 2WD and 4WD. You may use 2WD for daily driving on normal roads, and 4WD is best suited for rougher terrain.
- Command-Trac 4x4 System - Featuring a 2.72:1 low range for optimized rock crawling, the Command-Trac 4x4 System allows for the best traction due to the torque delivery to all four wheels.
- Rock-Trac 4x4 System - Overcome any obstacle with this 4x4 system’s 4:1 low gear ratio, electronically disconnecting sway bar, and Tru-Lok electronic locking front/rear differentials.
- Air-Tight Engine Compartment - Alongside a high air intake and water-proof electrical connection, the engine compartment is totally sealed to prevent flooding. This allows the Wrangler to drive through water in depths up to 30 inches.
- Axle Articulation - If you can’t go around downed logs or rocks, the revised suspension, high ground clearance, and axle articulation will allow you to climb over almost any obstacle while maintaining good traction.
- Precision Steering - Navigating around fallen trees or through tight trails has never been easier with the help of precision steering.
- Skid Plates - Heavy-duty steel skid plates have been installed to prevent damage to the underbelly of the Wrangler.
- All-Terrain Tires - Various sizes are available depending on the trim level, but our favorite tires are the 33-inch all-terrain tires on the Rubicon. These offer a higher ground clearance and enhanced traction for optimized off-roading.
- Rock Rails - Available on the Rubicon, rock rails prevent damage to the door sills while traveling over rough terrain.
- Steel Bumpers - Removable end caps have been added to the steel bumpers, which are capable of handling winch duties. This feature will come in mighty handy when someone (who isn’t driving a Jeep Wrangler) gets stuck in the mud!
- Tow Hooks - Mounted to the front and back of the Wrangler, tow hooks allow you to easily move fallen trees or pull another vehicle out of the mud.
Trims
The Wrangler Sport
Let’s kick things off with the basics. Every 2020 Jeep Wrangler comes with an advanced infotainment interface that is compatible with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. This is something you won’t find on many competitors’ base models. However, the Wrangler Sport is not your Average Joe. On this entry-level model, the system is displayed on a 5-inch touchscreen and features an 8-speaker sound system. A USB port has been installed as well as a rearview camera and cruise control.
An interesting fact about the Sport trim level is that it has two other editions known as the Sport S and Sport Altitude. The S comes with convenient upgrades such as full power accessories and air conditioning. It also features a leather-wrapped steering wheel for a touch of elegance inside the cabin. On the other hand, the Altitude is only available in the Unlimited body style. It adds a rear windshield wiper with a defrosting function as well as a removable hardtop roof.
The Wrangler Sahara
Stepping up to the wildly popular Sahara trim, you will first notice that this model is only offered on the Unlimited body style. Everything starts to get bigger on this trim, including the touchscreen, which has grown from 5-inches to 7-inches. Satellite radio has also been added for more music listening options. You won't have to worry about annoying static on your next camping trip!
The Wrangler Altitude
The aforementioned Altitude edition makes another appearance at the Sahara trim level as another option. Only available with the Unlimited body style, this revised model gets a few luxurious tweaks. The seats and gear shift knob have been covered in leather for the ultimate experience in sophistication.
The Wrangler Rubicon
At the top of the lineup is the coveted Rubicon. It is very similar to the Sahara on the inside, but there are a few small differences. The leather seats are heated for comfort during the colder months, and the touchscreen interface has been enlarged to 8.4-inches. Furthermore, a navigation system has been made available along with a premium Alpine system with nine speakers.
Other Limited Editions
If you thought we were done customizing the special editions, think again! The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Sport S also serves as a canvas for a trio of special edition vehicles. These are the Black and Tan, the Willys, and the Freedom Edition. The Black and Tan special edition model is equipped similarly to the mid-level Sahara with the addition of all-terrain tires and side rails. Meanwhile, the Willys is more similarly equipped to the Rubicon with the addition of larger brakes and heavy-duty shock absorbers. Lastly, the Freedom Edition features a soft-top roof, tinted windows, and stylized military graphics.
