The new Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a driving experience you won’t forget and a design that’s guaranteed to turn heads.
Having never driven a Jeep Wrangler before I was intrigued to discover what all the fuss was about. Of course, I had heard that the “Jeep experience” was unlike any other and but until you experience it for yourself, you’ll never understand.
This was a journey of discovery, fun and freedom as I explored parts of the Emirates I had never been. Initially, it was the colour of this particular model that caught my eye – who wouldn’t want to drive in a car with the shade name “Bikini Pearl?” But I soon learned this super-fun, durable ride is perfect for those looking to explore outside the city and enjoy the drive. Known as the undisputable off-road champion the Jeep Wrangler is perfect for both experienced off-roaders or beginners like me. Taking you from the city to the desert you’re guaranteed to have fun, but comfort and excellence are also key.
The Jeep Wrangler began its story in 1986. Designed as a car that could fulfil the needs of both on-road and off-road driving and it has since become an icon thanks to the many incarnations of its unique design and its popularity with the younger generation, especially in the Middle East. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is today one of the most popular models in the range and its versatility makes it perfect for exploring the region.
The design of the Rubicon is instantly recognisable. Featuring traditional Jeep codes including the round headlights, seven-slot grille, the trapezoidal wheel arches and the visible hinges; as well as the folding windshield the sport bar; removable doors and the open-air configurations with a hard top or soft top. The exterior design is bold and rugged with a wide stance and lowered beltline with larger windows for better outward visibility, especially out on extreme trails. The particular model we tested featured the unique Bikini Pearl finish – perfect for ladies and those looking to have a fun and fabulous time! This head-turning car is sure to get you noticed.
The 2021 model sees the legendary seven-slot grille feature a more modern look with both of the outer grille slats intersecting with the headlights, paying homage to the legendary CJ model. The top of the keystone-shaped grille has been gently swept back for improved aerodynamics. On the Rubicon model, the LED headlights and fog lights feature crisp white lighting that adds to the Wrangler’s distinctive look. The Jeep Wrangler is a unique vehicle thanks to the several combinations offered to owners to enjoy open-air adventure and, as the only authentic full open-air 4×4 SUV available on the market, features various windshield and top solutions that allow drivers to choose multiple configuration possibilities.
When it comes to the drive, the 2021 edition is the most capable Wrangler ever, courtesy of unmatched technical contents and lightweight, high-strength aluminium components. Advanced four-wheel-drive systems and a unique design mean the Wrangler is completely at ease and delivers a more modern experience, that stays true to the original, combined with more open-air freedom and advanced technology features in terms of safety and connectivity.
Available in a two or four-door design, the Rubicon is spacious and comfortable, no matter how adventurous the ride! The Rock-Trac four-wheel-drive system allows the most rugged and capable off-road driving. This system operates in four driving modes to take on all conditions: 2H (Two-Wheel Drive High Range), 4H AUTO (Full-Time Active On-Demand High Drive), 4H Part-Time (Part-Time Four-Wheel Drive High Range) and 4L (Four-Wheel Drive Low Range). The Wrangler features “shift on the fly” technology which allows for shifting between 2WD and 4WD High range at speeds of up to 72km/h. This allows the driver to switch to four-wheel drive mode when driving on slippery surfaces, such as sand or mud. To tackle the most challenging and demanding off-road tracks, drivers can use the 4WD Low mode with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio that multiplies the engine torque. The Rubicon features additional off-road prowess and is equipped with the Rock-Trac 4×4 system, featuring a two-speed transfer case with 4.0:1 low-range gear ratio and front and rear heavy-duty next-generation Dana 44 axles and Tru-Lok electric front-and rear-axle lockers to tackle the most extreme off-road trails. As A first-timer I wasn’t brave enough to test out this mode however the handling, in general, was incredibly impressive!
The Rubicon models also offer added articulation and total suspension travel with help from an electronic sway-bar disconnect. This system allows drivers to disconnect the front sway bar to deliver additional wheel travel for traversing the toughest trails. They have an improved maximum crawl ratio of 77.2:1 which makes scaling any obstacle on the trail easy. The wheels on this vehicle are impressively large. Choose from sports standard 17” painted polished aluminium wheels with 32-inch BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain tyres or optional 17” aluminium wheels with a dedicated design and black polished finish.
Moving inside the Rubicon is both stylish and functional. The heritage-inspired centre stack features a clean, sculpted form that compliments the horizontal dashboard design and sports a finish dictated by the model choice. A hand-wrapped instrument panel features a soft-touch surface. Functional features, including climate and volume control knobs, Engine Stop Start (ESS) control and media charging and connectivity ports are all sculpted for quick recognition and are easily within reach of the front-seat occupants, so you’ll never be without your GPS or an all-important driving soundtrack!
The centre console has been completely restyled and houses the gear shift selection, transfer case and parking brake. Leather upholstered seats feature accent stitching, and now offer adjustable bolster and lumbar support. Available comfort options include heated front seats and steering wheel. The driver and front passenger vinyl-wrapped door trim panels are soft to the touch and feature lengthened armrests for better comfort.
Around the car, you’ll find a host of clever storage solutions including durable mesh pockets cup holders and numerous phone storage areas. The glove box can be locked to ensure security and an under-floor storage area behind the rear seat provides room to secure small items out of sight. One of Wrangler’s unique characteristics is the entirely washable interior and the protective rubber cover for the infotainment system screen, which allow easy clean ups in complete peace of mind. When you’re driving this car the only thing you’ll want to worry about is where your next adventure takes you!
