Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Long-Term Review: Why This Beast Is Unlike Anything Else
The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon remains a hardcore off-roader with huge road presence, but its improved comfort and practicality make it better suited to everyday driving.
- Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, priced high, tested for daily practicality.
- Enhanced interior features and powerful engine boost driving experience.
- Rugged off-road capability balances noisy ride, high fuel consumption.
This is the ultimate Jeep and one that's recognised all over with its grille, round headlamps and the shape. The Wrangler Rubicon is the original daddy in terms of off-roaders and while I knew it would be great off-road, the question was whether it can be a practical everyday car considering it's Rs 80 lakh price-tag. The Rubicon is the most hardcore variant of the Wrangler and it looks even more monstrous with its wider bumper, chunky off-road tyres and its towering stance.
Over two months I drove the car everyday which was a test in itself considering the narrow roads and the traffic. While climbing in requires some effort even for a tall person like me, an accessory like a foot step is needed although it has grab handles. Once you have hauled yourself on the inside, the cabin is functional but characterful.
Proper switchgear greets you but there is a larger touchscreen now with powered seats, a better all around camera and basics being covered like ADAS. The driving position is lovely too and you have a nice view out. The switches are water proof while the roof and doors can be opened. Despite its size, space isn't as big but it can have two passengers and luggage space is ample too.
The four cylinder 2.0l turbo petrol is energetic and fast with a simple tap of the throttle enabling this beast to jump forward. Power is 270bhp and the 8-speed automatic does a decent job. There are perks to driving a Wrangler though as bad roads are not a problem and neither is water wading with an ability to go over pretty much everything.
While large and requiring caution to park, the Wrangler Rubicon is easy to get used to and it's better now with more luxuries while highway performance is decent too. However, the Rubicon isn't a luxury SUV since it's more hardcore. The offroad spec tyres kick up a noise above 80km/h and the roof also does the same while the ride is bouncy too. While the performance is fast, the fuel efficiency is 6 or 7kmpl at worst while climbing to 9kmpl on the highway while I used premium petrol.
So yes while it is thirsty and has a bouncy ride, the Rubicon in its new avatar is much better prepared to deal with the concrete jungle while retaining its core ethos. It has epic road presence and will easily cope with anything that the monsoons can throw at it.
Off-road it is phenomenal of course and you don't need to tamper with the features as the standard setting is enough to take on anything. The approach/departure angles are spot on and the it can climb/go through some serious stuff.
Overall, this isn't the usual luxury SUV but has more charm and looks over pretty much anything at below 1 cr which is its appeal.
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