Probably one of the most recognizable Jeeps in the world, the Wrangler is a series of compact and mid-size four-wheel drive off-road SUVs, depending on whether you get the 2-door or 4-door variant. Currently, the Wrangler is in its fourth generation, and the 2021 model will most probably be the last of the generation. The 2021 Jeep Wrangler packs the same options of a 2.0L Turbocharged and a 3.6L V6 engine. However, for those who are in the hunt for more power, can always opt for Wrangler Rubicon 392 that makes 472 hp.
The Jeep Wrangler is one of the go-to choices for serious off-road enthusiasts. Following the usual trend, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler should range somewhere between $30,000 to $52,000, depending on the trim level, and at this price range, it will face steep competition from the likes of Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, the Land Rover Discovery Sport, the Toyota 4Runner and other similar SUVs in the market.
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler is set to launch this year with a lot of fruitful upgrades to the existing model, there is possible addition of more off-roading elements and Jeep will surely shift its focus towards driving dynamics and overall safety.
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
While the 2020 model already has received quite a few updates, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler should remain mostly unchanged. Although it won’t be surprising to see a bit of change in the naming and categorization of the trims based on features, there hasn’t been any word from the company about that matter yet. Still Wrangler will manage to install some extra off roading features enhancing performance and drive dynamics.
2021 Jeep Wrangler front view
2021 Jeep Wrangler rear view
7.8/10 Pricing and Features
8.0/10 Engine and Performance
7.0/10 Fuel Economy
7.9/10 Interior
9.9/10 Exterior
7.0/10 Safety
7.5/10 Competition
7.4/10 Final Verdict
2021 Jeep Wrangler Pricing and Features
7.8/10
The trim levels on a Jeep Wrangler can get quite confusing with the variety of trim levels available with different features. Although there hasn’t been any word from Jeep regarding the trims on the 2021 Jeep Wrangler, most of the trims from the 2020 model should be carried forward to the 2021 model, though they might drop a trim or two with the introduction of new trims as well, especially due to the expected release of a plug-in hybrid model for the 2021 Wrangler.
2021 Jeep Wrangler third quarter view
But for now, we’ll be looking at the trims and features of the 2020 model for reference and have an idea as to how Jeep treats different trims of the Wrangler according to the price. The three primary trims for the 2020 Jeep Wrangler are Sport, Sahara, and Rubicon. There are an additional ten different sub-trims and special editions viz. Willys Sport, Sport S, Black and Tan, Sport Altitude, Willys, Freedom, Sahara Altitude, North Edition, Rubicon Recon, and High Altitude. While some of them are available in both 2-door and 4-door variants, some of them are available only in a 4-door option.
Model
Sport (4x4)
Willys Sport (4x4)
Sport S (4x4)
Islander (4x4)
Willys (4x4)
80th Anniversary (4x4)
Unlimited Altitude (4x4)
Unlimited Sahara (4x4)
Rubicon(4x4)
Unlimited Sahara Altitude(4x4)
Unlimited High Altitude(4x4)
MSRP (2 Door)
$28,295
$30,240
$32,435
$33,885
$34,930
$36,235
N/A
N/A
$38,940
N/A
N/A
MSRP (4 Door)
$31,795
$33,740
$35,935
$37,630
$38,430
$39,735
$37,630
$38,890
$42,195
$42,185
$49,495
Key Features
Cloth Low-Back Bucket seats
Replaces and Adds to the Sport Trim
Replaces and Adds to the Willys Sport Trim
Replaces and Adds to the Sport S Trim
Replaces and Adds to the Sport S Trim
Replaces and Adds to the Willys Trim
Replaces and Adds to the 80th Anniversary Trim
Replaces and Adds to the Unlimited Altitude Trim
Replaces and Adds to the Unlimited Sahara Trim
Replaces and Adds to the Rubicon
Replaces and Adds to the Unlimited Sahara
Uconnect 3 with 5 inch display
17-Inch x 7.5-Inch Moab black aluminum wheels
U connect 4 with 7 inch display
Automatic Headlamps
Leather Wrapped steering wheel
Neutral Grey exterior accents
Sirius XM Radio connectivity
Electronic front and rear lockable differentials
Leather upholstery
Full-time four-wheel-drive system
Side steps
Air Conditioning Bypass
Black Sunrider soft top
Apple CarPlay
Heated Power Mirror
Heavy Duty brakes
All terrain tires
Speed Sensitive power locks
Electronically disconnecting front stabilizer bars
Leather-wrapped shifter
Optional lockable center differential
Standard HD Radio
17-Inch x 7.5-Inch Black Steel Styled Wheels
Deep tint sunscreen windows
Integrated Center Radio
Android Auto Connectivity
Heavy Duty suspension
Body color fender flares
Keyless entry system
Rock rails
Rear window washer and defroster
245/75R17 All-Season Tires
Rear View day night mirrors
Steering wheel mounted controls
Rear window Defroster
Remote engine start
Upgraded cloth upholstery
3.6L V6 24V VVT Engine Upg I With Start Stop
Air Conditioning with Automatic climate control
6-Speed Manual Transmission
4-Way Manual Adjustable Front Passenger Seat
Integrated Voice command with
8 speakers
Heater with Instrument panel ventilation
Advanced Multistage front airbags
So, the Jeep Wrangler has a very complicated lineup of cars. But that could be a good thing as the customer gets a number of choices depending on his/her requirements and budget. So the lineup starts with the base Sport model, which despite its name is not sporty at all.
2021 Jeep Wrangler side view
The Sport trim takes a back to basic approach without much electronic interference. Additional features and accessories get added as you go up the trim levels with some of the special editions getting some unique treatment as well.
Out of the bunch, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is the most off-road focused machine designed for those full-on off-road enthusiasts.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Maintenance, Reliability and Warranty
American cars generally tend to cost more in terms of ownership, reliability, fixing issues, and kinds of stuff, and unfortunately, the Wrangler is no exception. It falls behind its competitors in terms of reliability and build quality, especially with European and Japanese competitors at this price range.
Reliability and Ownership Costs
As per J.D. Power Report, the 2020 Wrangler SUV scored a below-average reliability rating of 74 out of 100, which is low considering there are more reliable European and Japanese SUVs out there in the market at this price range. Since the 2021 model isn’t expected to change much, this is not expected to improve anytime soon. The repairs are comparatively easy and cheap, but frequent visits to the dealership is a hassle nonetheless.
Considering the 2020 Jeep Wrangler already had three recalls with numerous complaints from customers regarding different sorts of issues and breakdowns, the Wrangler is not one of the most worry-free travel companions. Nonetheless, the Wrangler is a very rare breed of actual rugged SUVs that can take any terrains with ease, especially in the market full of soft SUVs built for tarmac driving.
5 Year Ownership and maintenance cost table
In terms of ownership costs, on an average, you will have to shell out nearly $37,000 to $50,000 in 5 years when you buy a brand new Jeep Wrangler, depending on the trim you get. This is slightly high especially when you compare it with some of Jeep’s other rivals. This is not a surprise considering the immense amount of complaints the car has received in NHTSA’s official website.
Particulars
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5
Total
Tax Credit
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
Insurance
$807
$835
$864
$895
$926
$4,327
Maintenance
$158
$653
$378
$2,045
$358
$3,592
Repairs
$0
$0
$179
$426
$622
$1,227
Taxes and Fees
$2,737
$111
$111
$111
$111
$3,181
Financing
$2,966
$2,385
$1,766
$1,104
$400
$8,621
Depreciation
$12,720
$1,540
$1,457
$1,710
$1,620
$19,047
Fuel
$1,830
$1,885
$1,942
$2,000
$2,060
$9,717
True Cost to Own
$21,218
$7,409
$6,697
$8,291
$6,097
$49,712
*2020 Jeep Rubicon cost of ownership
The cost of ownership table consists of estimation of all variable costs that one will incur while owning a car. This includes maintenance, repairs, fuel expense, financing, taxes and other costs associated with the vehicle for a period of 5 years when it is driven 15,000 miles or less. The 5 year average maintenance cost of a 2020 Wrangler top spec Rubicon model is calculated at $3,592.
Warranty
Just like the 2020 Wrangler, the 2021 model should also be backed up by your regular array of limited warranties, which will be quite necessary especially considering the number of complaints the 2020 model has been receiving.
The warranties included for the 2020 Wrangler, which should be the same for the 2021 model includes the following:
Criteria
Period
Basic Warranty
3 years/ 36,000 miles; whichever is earlier*
Powertrain Warranty
5 years/ 60,000 miles; whichever is earlier*
24-hour Roadside Assistance
5 years/ 100,000 miles; whichever is earlier*
Rust-Through Protection
5 years/ 100,000 miles; whichever is earlier*
*2020 figures used for reference
Although the warranty might not be the best in the market, it is also quite good at the same time and is comparable to its competitors at this price range.
Miles Per Dollar
Considering driving for $15,000 miles per year on average, miles per dollar for the Jeep Wrangler stands somewhere between 0.3 to 0.4, depending on the trim you get.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Buying Advice
With a number of choices in the Jeep Wrangler line-up, it is quite difficult to recommend a specific trim that would fit every customers’ requirements. Although the base Sport trim is not a good starting point, it is perfect for those looking for a raw open-top experience with a back-to-basics approach without much electronic interference.
And the Rubicon trim is the one to go for if you want a full-fledged off-road machine with the go-anywhere capability and that it could handle any terrain with ease with its nice array of off-road upgrades. Nonetheless, the Sahara trim is the sweet spot for the perfect amount of luxury with the perfect amount of off-road capability at a perfect price range.
Is buying a used car Jeep Wrangler a good idea?
Although not the best resale value in the market, the Jeep Wrangler does not depreciate as expected and maintains its resale value nonetheless, given that the car is in good condition and hasn’t been used in extreme off-road adventures. This is backed up by the fact that it scored a great score of 88/100 in J.D. Power’s resale value category.
But the issue arises due to poor build quality and reliability, which is evident by the fact that there are a number of complaints about the 2020 Wrangler in NHTSA’s website already. So do check the car properly before buying for any pre-existing problems and if the car has been taken good care of.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Engine and Performance
8.0/10
Apart from a new plug-in hybrid model, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler should be powered by the same powertrain as the 2020 model, which is either a 3.6L V6 good for 285 HP and 260 lb-ft of torque or a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine producing 270 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque, depending on the trim you pick.
2021 Jeep Wrangler engine
Models
2021 Jeep Wrangler (Expected)
2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport
2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
MSRP
$30,000 - $52,000
$37,800
$37,995
Engine
3.6L V6
2.0L turbocharged inline four-cylinder
4.0L V6
Drivetrain
Four-wheel drive
All-wheel drive
Four-wheel drive
Transmission
6-speed manual
9-speed automatic
5-speed automatic
Power
285 HP @ 6400 rpm*
246 HP @ 5500 rpm
270 HP @ 5600 rpm
Torque
260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm*
269 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm
278 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
*2020 figures used for reference
The Jeep and its competitors are in the ballpark when it comes to engine capacity and power output.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Acceleration And Braking Performance
Since the 2021 model won’t be getting many changes, its performance should be similar to the 2020 Wrangler. The 4-door variant with the V6 and automatic transmission is capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, which the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with more torque can do in 6.5 seconds. Moreover, the 2-door variant being lighter, the V6 with a manual transmission can go to 60 in 6.1 seconds.
2021 Jeep Wrangler accelerate 0-60 mph just in 6.5 sec.
Equipped with ventilated discs at the front with solid discs at the back with 4-wheel ABS, the Wrangler is capable of stopping from 60 mph to standstill in about 128 ft. Some of the trims should also come equipped with heavy-duty brakes for better off-roading confidence.
Models
2021 Jeep Wrangler (Expected)
2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport
2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
0-60 (seconds)
6.5*
7.1
7.5
Quarter-Mile (seconds)
15.2*
NA
15.3
Top Speed (mph)
NA
135
NA
60-0 (ft.)
128*
NA
NA
*2020 figures used as reference
The Jeep Wrangler is on the quicker side of the SUV spectrum with comparable braking performance as well.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Fuel Economy
7.0/10
Being a full-fledged SUV with proper off-road capability, the Jeep Wrangler has a mediocre fuel economy and the 2021 model should give similar mileage as the 2020 model. Out of the two engines that should be available, excluding the hybrid engine, the 2.0L turbocharged Inline-4 should be the more fuel-efficient one giving 21 mpg and 22 mpg in city and highway respectively with a combined mileage of 21 mpg.
Models
2021 Jeep Wrangler (Expected)
2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport
2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
MPG (City)
17
19
16
MPG (Highway)
25
24
19
MPG (Combined)
20
21
17
Fuel Capacity
17.5
17.7
23.0
Range (City/Highway; in Miles)
297.5/437.5
336.3/424.8
368/437
The 3.6L V6 on the other hand should be capable of delivering 17 mpg in the city with 25 mpg on the highway with a combined mileage of 20 mpg. Although not one of the best in terms of fuel economy, the Jeep Wrangler is not one of the worst either.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Interior
7.9/10
The interior of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler will continue with its basic approach and come with the same rugged and utilitarian look and feel to it, although the 2021 model is expected to enhance the looks with some fabrication and styling features. Depending on the trim, you will get either a cloth upholstery or a premium upholstery for the interior.
2021 Jeep Wrangler seats
Although we are still not sure that the 2021 Wrangler will work on vibrations, noise and reverberations entering the cabin, however, those areas need work for sure. Depending on the trim you get, the interior of the Wrangler might be quite basic or decently loaded at the same time. That being said, the interior is not quite as fancy and comfortable as the ones you get in some of its competitors.
Models
2021 Jeep Wrangler (Expected)
2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport
2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
Seating Capacity
4/5*
5
5
Front Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Legroom) (in)
42.6/55.7/41.2*
39.5/57.3/39.1
39.3/57.8/41.7
Rear Row (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Legroom) (in)
41.7/57.7/35.7*
38.7/55.9/38.1
38.6/57.8/32.9
*2020 figures used for reference
Although the Jeep Wrangler is not the best in terms of interior quality, comfort and features, still the Jeep Wrangler is quite comparable to its competitors in terms of interior space. It has a divine space allocation in the front and rear row and allows easy access to the inside.
How’s the 2021 Jeep Wrangler infotainment system?
Just like the 2020 model, the 2021 Wrangler should be equipped with either a 5” or a 7” touchscreen display for the infotainment system, depending on the trim you choose. Moreover, an 8-speaker sound system comes as standard on most of the trims with the option to upgrade to a more premium Alpine Premium Audio System which comes as standard in the North Edition and High Altitude trim.
2021 Jeep Wrangler infotainment system
It also comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay with audio jack input for mobile devices. The infotainment interface used is called the Uconnect which is easy to use and has a quick response as well.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Exterior
9.9/10
The Jeep Wrangler has the iconic Jeep look and a rugged and sturdy road presence, and Jeep is not expected to tinker too much with that for the 2021 model. It has the perfect balance of retro styling with the perfect touch of modern-ness to it.
2021 Jeep Wrangler third quarter view
As mentioned earlier, it has the option to have a 2-door or a 4-door variant, along with the option to a soft-top or a hard-top roof. The removable soft-top is definitely the one to go for if you want an open-top experience.
Models
2021 Jeep Wrangler (Expected)
2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport
2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
Curb Weight (lbs)
4160
4035
4805
Length (inches)
166.8 (2-door)
188.4 (4-door)
181.0
190.2
Width (inches)
73.8
75.0
75.8
Height (inches)
73.6
68.0
73.6
Ground Clearance (inches)
9.7
8.3
9.7
Wheelbase (inches)
96.8 (2-door)
118.4 (4-door)
107.9
109.8
The 4-door Jeep Wrangler and its competitors are in the same ballpark when it comes to exterior dimensions. You can choose the 2-door variant as well if you want it to have a smaller footprint to easily maneuver around city traffic, but it does sacrifice the ease to get into the back of the car and interior space as well.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Safety
7.0/10
In terms of safety quotient, the 2021 Wrangler should be similar to its 2020 counterpart. Although the car can be equipped with a decent list of advanced safety features, the overall safety quotient of the car is not promising based on some of NHTSA’s safety testing. Although the car hasn’t been fully rated yet, it managed to score 4 out of 5 stars in overall front safety tests and a below-average 3 out of 5 stars in rollover testing.
Nonetheless, some of the standard safety features that should be available include the following:
Advanced brake assist
Advanced multistage front airbags
Electronic roll mitigation
Electronic stability control
Hill Start Assist
Trailer sway damping
Traction control
Moreover, Safety Group Package adds blind-spot monitor and front and rear parking sensors, while the Advanced Safety Group package includes adaptive cruise control and a forward-collision warning system.
2021 Jeep Wrangler Competition
7.5/10
2021 Jeep Wrangler vs 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport
Land Rovers are known for their off-road capabilities and the Discovery Sport is no exception. Although it might not look like one, the Discovery Sport is also very capable off-road as well.
2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport
With better and reliable build quality than the Jeep with better on-road manners, the Discovery Sport might be the better choice at the same price point.
2021 Jeep Wrangler vs 2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
Just like the Jeep, the 4Runner is also built for extreme off-road adventures with go-anywhere capability. But you do get the advantage of better build quality and reliability with the Japanese engineering in the Toyota and also being more refined on-road as well.
2020 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro
However, the Jeep Wrangler is an authentic all-American off-roader with go-anywhere capability, but then you do have to sacrifice on the build quality and reliability,
2021 Jeep Wrangler Final Verdict
7.4/10
All being said, the Jeep has its own value proposition with its huge line-up of choices and the option to have a 2-door or a 4-door variant, with a removable soft-top or a hardtop. And since the 2021 model is not getting that many changes, you’re better off with the 2020 model, unless you want the plug-in hybrid variant that is expected for the 2021 model. However, we recommend you to look for others when there are better, more reliable alternatives out there in the market at the same price range.
Unlimited 80th Anniversary 4dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
9
User Overall Rating
Posted On: January 15, 2021
It is how it looks on the outside, A beast
Pros - Offroad pages, selec trac 4wd, rollover mitigation and hill start assist
Cons - High mount stop lamp, all season standard tires, doesn't show oil life
Overall Review
9 /10 Overall Rating
Jeep wrangler Islander 2021 driving experience has been one of a kind. Not only does it impress on the terrain for which it has been made but also drives smooth on the tarmac
9/10
Features
10/10
Interior
9/10
Design
10/10
Safety
10/10
Reliability
9/10
Deal Value
8/10
Dealer Review
MG
Mario M. Gross
2021 Jeep Wrangler
80th Edition 2dr SUV 4WD (3.6L 6cyl 8A)
8
User Overall Rating
Posted On: January 14, 2021
latest Wrangler
Pros - Easy to maneuver, can fit a lot of stuff, & safety features.
Cons - Air vents were choked in just a few months and I hate that I didn't go for the AWD
Jeep wrangler Islander 2021 driving experience has been one of a kind. Not only does it impress on the terrain for which it has been made but also drives smooth on the tarmac
