2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Review
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is a convertible 4-door SUV offered in 3 trims; Sport, Sahara and Rubicon. Power comes from a 3.6 liter V6 producing 285hp/260lb-ft of torque. A few key differences between the Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited is the Unlimited receives a larger gas tank, 4 doors, roomier backseat, more trunk space, AC, a 60/40 split-folding backseat and the Power Convenience Group. There are many specialized options packages to increase luxury and high tech conveniences, as well as off-road capabilities.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited offers the excellent off-road capabilities that Jeep is renowned for, but offers more room for passengers and hauling gear than the 2 door Wrangler. The Unlimited also offers a more stable feel when taking corners and on highway drives, making it a top choice for anyone needing the best of both worlds.
What’s New For 2012:
2012 brought the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited a more powerful 285hp V6 and a 5 speed automatic transmission is now available as an option. Wranglers are also now 4WD.
What is the Predicted Reliability:
In J.D. Power and Associates initial quality study, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited rated an overall initial quality score of 2.5 out of 5, with a 3.5 for powertrain mechanical and design quality and a 4 for features and accessories design quality. In a recent survey of current owners an overwhelming majority of 72% said if they could do it all over again they would definitely buy their Jeep Wrangler.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Standard safety features of the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited include traction/stability control, antilock disc brakes, as well as and hill start assist. Optional are front side airbags. IIHS gave the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited a high score of Good for front crashes and marginal for side crashes, which isn’t surprising since the Jeep’s doors don’t have the same level of protection as a standard automobile.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Outstanding off-road capabilities
+ New powerful engine
+ Fun to drive experience in-town & off-road
Cons
– Rather noisy interior
– Longer breaking distances
– Would need hardtop to mitigate security issues with the soft
Head-To-Head Competition:
While the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited has a higher starting price than the Subaru Forester and Kia Sportage, however, it offers more capabilities than either competitor. The Wrangler Unlimited comes with a 285hp engine compared to the Forester’s 170 horses and the Sportage with a 176hp engine. The Jeep can also tow heavier loads with max towing capabilities of 3600lbs compared to the Kia with 2000lbs and the Subaru’s max capabilities of 2400lbs. Maximum cargo capacity in the Jeep is 86.8cu.ft, substantially more than the Kia with 54.6cu.ft. and the Subaru’s 68.3cu.ft.
What Others Are Saying:
"To purists, things such as remote starters, navigation systems and heated seats are blasphemy, but pure off-road enthusiasts aren’t the only market for Wranglers–and haven’t been for years." – AutoWeek
"Jeep’s goal with this latest version of the Wrangler is to make the vehicle more refined and better on a day-to-day basis, without sacrificing the JK’s off-road ability. The new Wrangler stays true to the model’s roots, but now it’s a lot more fun to drive on-road." – MotorTrend
"The Rubicon Trail is a mean maid. But, fittingly, even a bone-stock Wrangler Rubicon can tame it. So, point taken: Nothing Jeep has done to the 2012 model has made a sissy of the Wrangler." – Car and Driver
Read more about the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, at the Jeep manufacturer site.
