With its legendary off-road capabilities and iconic styling, the Jeep Wrangler is a rare vehicle that needs no introduction. And although it’s been around since the Second World War, today’s Wrangler is a satisfying mix of classic design and off-road chops with modern safety systems, amenities, and technology.
Jeep debuted refreshed versions of its popular SUV at the 2023 New York Auto Show. Here's what you need to know about it.
Increased Off-Road Capability
For those living under a cactus on the Rubicon Trail, not only do all current Wranglers come with four-wheel drive, they are arguably at the top of a small class of new vehicles that can handle almost anything nature has created – open waters excepted! But with the likes of the Toyota 4Runner and the resurrected Ford Bronco giving Wrangler buyers some genuine off-road SUV alternatives, Jeep added even more off-road capability to the 2024 Wrangler’s spec sheet.
The updated 2024 Willys trim has larger tires, additional ground clearance, and tall fender flares. Second, the new, more accessible Rubicon X trim has standard 35-inch tires, an integrated off-road camera, and steel bumpers. Finally, the Rubicon – the most-capable Wrangler off-road – adds even more 4x4 capability with an optional 8,000-pound (3,628-kilogram) capacity Warn winch, up to 100:1 crawl ratio, and new Dana 44 HD Full Float solid rear axle that allows for larger tires and up to a 5,000-lb (2,268-kg) maximum towing rating.
More Refinement
As capable as the Wrangler is off the beaten path, most owners use their Jeeps as daily drivers. So for 2024, Jeep has added a few changes to make its rugged SUV, well, less rugged on your drive to the bagel shop.
Optional 12-way power-adjustable front seats, an all-new instrument panel featuring Uconnect 5 system (with what Jeep says is a “best-in-class” 12.3-inch touchscreen), and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity are all new.
To make that bagel run even safer, the Wrangler delivers standard first- and second-row side-curtain airbags, forward collision warning, and standard advanced cruise control with full-stop capability.
Wrangler 4xe PHEV Can Now Provide Power
Jeep claims that by the end of 2025, its entire North American lineup will feature electrified powertrains. In the meantime, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid continues, with 2024 models receiving what Jeep calls the “4xe Power Box.” It features four 120-volt outlets with 30 amps of total output, allowing the battery pack to external power devices – perfect for beach tailgating or overlanding adventures.
Squint to See the Design Changes
Jeep’s designers are kept on a tight leash regarding the Wrangler’s exterior design. That’s the burden of working on a design that dates back to the mid-20th century.
But if you look hard enough, all 2024 Wranglers will also get a mild exterior refresh. Details include a revised seven-slot grille, a windshield-integrated “trail-ready” stealth antenna, and 10 new wheel designs.
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