Jeep has kept the formula for the Jeep Wrangler pretty much the same for decades: simple inside, rigged outside and unstoppable off road. It’s worked beautifully and Wrangler diehards swear by their beloved, simple, kind of uncomfortable, slightly awkward machine.
Things have changed recently and folks who wanted all of the utility of the Wrangler with a hint of sophistication can rejoice.
Changes for 2011
Exterior:
Check out the Sahara’s color matched hard top – it looks like an integral part of the 2011 Wrangler, but it’s still removable. Now look at the back quarter glass – notice anything? Jeep psycho-nuts will immediately notice the larger, squared off glass that affords better outward visibility.
The entire roof has a more chiseled look and the resemblance to the back of a Mercedes Benz ‘G’ Wagon wasn’t lost on the media.
There are a few, fun bits throughout the exterior where Jeep cleverly hid some nifty, iconic bits of design. There are a few “Classic Jeep” design bits on the front windshield that are fairly easy to locate – I won’t give away the simple secrets. It’s a bit goofy to some while others nodded in satisfaction.
Interior:
Now THIS is where the changes can truly be felt. The best way to prep yourself for the new interior is to ask yourself this question, “What would make the Jeep Wrangler an easier vehicle to live with daily?” Your question will immediately be answered when you sit on the surprisingly plush/up-market, leather (yes – LEATHER) seats.
Don’t freak out – it’s optional.
BTW – Those leather seats are heated. Yup, something that’s available on economy cars is FINALLY available in one of the few vehicles people would drive through the Arctic Circle – on purpose. As your head spins in disbelief over the seating, you might totally freak when you feel the chubby, grippy steering wheel.
The hits keep coming: there’s an all new, rather plush looking dashboard and instrumentation. More storage cubbies AND nifty cargo-net/storage pockets surround the interior too. The exterior mirrors are not only electric, but heated as well.
Finally, the 2011 Jeep Wrangler can be equipped with carpet lining throughout.
I don’t think there will be an excessive weight penalty (I’m guessing no more than 50 lbs) and I don’t think there will be much of a fluctuation from the entry prices of the Wrangler. What will be noticeable is the amount of people who can consolidate their weekend Jeep and daily driver into one, more comfortable option.
Either way you look at it – Jeep was smart to FINALLY make the Wrangler comfortable
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