Jeep has done a great job over the years of keeping their trademark vehicle up to date, improving and refining it year after year. In that way, the have listened to their Jeep faithful always taking cues from them when it comes time for improvements.
For 2011 they have brought a number of changes to the Wrangler line, notable of which are some bright new colors to liven up the palette. A new interior with richer styling and upgraded materials that are higher quality to the touch are welcome too.
The 2011 Wrangler is offered in three models – Sport, Sahara and Rubicon. There is also the Black Ops Edition we will get to later. Jeep Wrangler and the four door Wrangler Unlimited continue the tradition of solid axles, removable doors, exposed hinges, a fold-down windshield and removable and convertible tops. Jeep says that it retains these traits aas coveted core values of “freedom, adventure, mastery and authenticity”.
Inside, a redesigned instrument panel and new storage areas with improved ergonomics and upgraded materials look pleasing to the eyes. There’s a new lockable console and upgraded door armrest areas and redesigned center stack. Heated seats and heated power mirrors are now available too.
All-new steering-wheel controls allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, handsfree phone and other vehicle functions while keeping hands on the wheel. Twelve-volt accessory outlets have been added and a new 115-volt outlet is available to provide power similar to AC outlets in the home.
Several new colors are available for 2011, including Detonator Yellow, Deep Cherry Red, Sahara Tan, Cosmos Blue and Bright White. The Sahara models boast a new, premium, body-color hardtop.
With high ground clearance combined with short front and rear overhangs, the Jeep Wrangler has the ability to conquer incredibly challenging off-road obstacles, especially severe inclines. Off-road enthusiasts recognize the key numbers: for the Rubicon model, an approach angle of 44.3 degrees, breakover angle of 25.4 degrees and departure angle of 40.4 degrees. Underbody protection is provided by three skid plates, which protect the fuel tank, transfer case and automatic transmission oil pan.
The powerplant for all Jeep Wrangler models remains the venerable 3.8-liter V-6 engine producing 202 horsepower and 237 lb.-ft. of torque, backed by a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an available four-speed automatic transmission. News of the new Pentastar V6 coming someday may may pan out, however rumors of a diesel option for the United States will not.
On an exciting note, Jeep has partnered with Activision Publishing to produce the Call of Duty: Black Ops Edition. The video game is one of the world’s most popular entertainment experiences. The 2011 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited Call of Duty: Black Ops Edition is based on the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon model and features dark Rubicon wheels in a high-gloss Mineral Gray.
The vehicle’s exterior color is black and features Call of Duty: Black Ops graphics on the roof and front quarter panels. The vehicle also features taillamp guards and a fuel-filler door from Mopar. Inspired by Call of Duty: Black Ops, the new limited-edition Wrangler delivers legendary Jeep capability, aggressive 32-inch off-road tires, live axles with locking differentials in the front and rear, and a two-speed transfer case.
The 2011 Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited continue to be built in Toledo, Ohio.
