Different Jeep Wranngler Models [Complete Trim Level Guide] – wranglerguide.com (2024)

The Jeep Wrangler is an American off-road icon known for its rugged capability and open-air freedom.

If you’re looking to purchase one of these legendary 4x4s, this comprehensive guide will help you demystify the differences across all the Wrangler models and trims.

A Brief History of the Jeep Wrangler

The Wrangler can trace its roots back to Willys-Overland’s production of the CJ (or Civilian Jeep) for personal use after World War II. Since then, it has evolved over the decades while retaining its signature features:

1. CJ (1944-1986)
2. YJ (1986-1996)
3. TJ (1996-2006)
4. JK (2007-2018)
5. JL (2018-present)

Despite changes in styling and technology, the Wrangler remains focused on off-road capability. Understanding this heritage will help you appreciate all the Wrangler has to offer.

Key Specifications Common to All Wranglers

While models vary, every Wrangler stands apart with these core features:

• Legendary four-wheel drive: Only one Wrangler variant has ever offered 2WD
• Commanding ground clearance: Allows traversing rocky, uneven terrain
• Solid front and rear axles: Provides greater articulation over obstacles
• Removable doors/roof: Delivers an open-air riding experience

These capabilities enable the Wrangler to go places other vehicles simply can’t.

Comparison of Jeep Wrangler Models: Prices and Features

The Wrangler Lineup: Models Explained

There is a Wrangler for every type of driver. Let’s explore the key models available:

Wrangler Sport

The most affordable way to own the iconic Wrangler. With a starting price of $35,690, the no-frills Sport trim focuses on rugged off-road capability above all else.

It comes equipped with the essentials for traversing rocky trails while foregoing certain comforts and tech features found on pricier variants. Drivers will appreciate the back-to-basics approach of the Sport, which can easily be customized with aftermarket parts down the road.

Wrangler Sport S

For those seeking more daily driver refinement, the Sport S includes worthwhile upgrades over the base Sport while keeping the price reasonable at $38,395.

Expect desirable amenities like power locks and windows, fog lights for improved visibility, 17-inch alloy wheels, and an Alpine audio system.

Interior comfort is enhanced through standard air conditioning, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and an 8.4-inch touchscreen display. The Sport S strikes an appealing balance between off-road competence and livable features.

Related: Jeep Wrangler Color Options Over the Years

Wrangler Willys Sport

Serious off-road enthusiasts will flock to the Willys Sport for its enhanced trail performance right from the factory.

Starting at $38,365, it comes armed with 32-inch mud-terrain tires, Rubicon shocks tuned for rigorous terrain, rock rails to protect the body, and a limited slip rear differential for added traction.

The Willys Sport can be further upgraded with a factory 35-inch tire option. Its special off-road tuning allows it to traverse challenging obstacles that would stop standard Wrangler models in their tracks.

Wrangler Freedom Edition

Patriotic buyers will appreciate the special styling touches of the Freedom Edition. Starting at $42,185, it combines the full Sport S features list with unique exterior styling that includes American flag decals along the sides and hood, 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels, rock sliders, and all-terrain tires.

The exterior continues the stars and stripes theme with a unique Freedom top and special badging. Inside is an embroidered Freedom logo on the leather seats.

With its patriotic flair and added off-road gear, the Freedom Edition lets owners display their American pride wherever they roam.

Related: Comparing Wrangler Top options

Wrangler Willys

For those seeking a combination of additional off-road gear and daily driving comforts, the Willys fits the bill. Starting at $42,685, it takes the best aspects of the Willys Sport and Sport S trims and merges them into one compelling package.

Like the Willys Sport, it comes equipped with rugged 32-inch mud terrain tires, limited slip rear differential, rock rails and a suspension tuned for the trails.

From the Sport S, it inherits conveniences like air conditioning, alloy wheels, in-dash navigation and Blind Spot Monitoring. The Willys is ideal for the off-road enthusiast who doesn’t want to sacrifice all-weather comfort and modern tech.

Wrangler Rubicon

Situated at the top of the Wrangler lineup is the highly capable Rubicon, priced from $47,495.

It represents the utmost in production off-road performance, endowed with specialized gear like front and rear electronically locking differentials, 33-inch off-road tires, disconnecting front sway bar for improved wheel articulation, steel rock rails, and a 4:1 low range transfer case.

This potent hardware allows the Rubicon to confidently tackle rugged obstacles like large boulders, deep sand, and steep inclines.

Owners will also appreciate the interior comforts like leather seats, an Alpine premium audio system and 8.4-inch touchscreen display. For those seeking the ultimate Jeep for extreme off-road adventures, the Wrangler Rubicon sits in a class of its own.

Wrangler High Altitude

On the opposite end of the spectrum from the Rubicon sits the new-for-2023 Wrangler High Altitude, catering to buyers craving luxury appointments.

Starting at $55,215, the High Altitude packs high-end materials and technology inside and out. Upgrades include 20-inch wheels, body-colored fender flares, side steps, and premium LED lighting.

The interior is bathed in fine leather, stitched dash and doors, a 9-speaker Alpine system, 8.4-inch touchscreen, and heated seats and steering wheel.

Meanwhile, standard safety features include Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, adaptive cruise control, and more. For Wrangler buyers focused on comfort, convenience and styling over trail tackling, the High Altitude warrants a look.

Wrangler 4xe

In keeping with shifting consumer preferences, Jeep now offers the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid starting at $53,995.

It allows drivers to enjoy silent electric-only propulsion for daily commuting while retaining the Wrangler’s legendary off-road skills.

The 4xe combines a 270 horsepower turbocharged 2.0L engine with two electric motors for a total output of 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. On a full charge, it can travel up to 22 miles on electric power alone, ideal for short daily trips.

The battery can be recharged at home overnight or at public EV stations in around two hours. Drivers will appreciate the Wrangler 4xe for its unique ability to traverse off-grid locations under electric power alone while delivering the fuel efficiency buyers demand.

Wrangler 392

At the opposite end of the efficiency spectrum from the 4xe sits the new Wrangler 392, which swaps the standard V6 for a thundering 470 horsepower 6.4-liter HEMI V8. Starting at $82,495, straight-line performance goes from adequate to blistering with the mighty HEMI, able to sprint from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.

Yet it retains the Rubicon’s hardcore off-road credentials, including locking differentials and disconnecting sway bar. The 392 appeals to performance-minded buyers craving V8 muscle paired with the Wrangler’s unmatched off-road mastery. Just be prepared for fuel economy ratings in the low teens thanks to the thirsty V8.

Finding the Right Wrangler for You

With your needs in mind, we can narrow down the perfect Wrangler:

1. Seeking capability on a budget? The Sport trim balances value and off-road chops.
2. Demand ultimate rock crawling performance? The Rubicon sits at the top for 4×4 dominance.
3. Want eco-friendly Jeep capability? The 4xe hybrid combines efficiency with Wrangler strengths.
4. Need a comfortable, high-end Wrangler?

References:

https://www.jeep.com/model-compare.html

https://www.cars.com/research/jeep-wrangler/