2022 Jeep Wrangler Pros vs Cons

The Jeep Wrangler is a vehicle that is pretty much in a class of its own. It is technically considered a compact SUV, but it is unlike almost everything else on the market. This vehicle entered its fourth generation in 2018. Since then, several exciting updates have been made, including the addition of a hybrid powertrain. At first glance, it may seem like there is a 2022 Wrangler that will work for any set of driving needs. Upon closer inspection, however, you will find that there are a few flaws. Here is a look at some of the most significant pros and cons.

What's New for 2022?

It was just last year that Jeep gave the Wrangler its plug-in hybrid option. Considering that, it is no surprise that there are not many significant changes in 2022. There is a brand-new Xtreme Recon package available for select trim levels. It blacks out the exterior features, gives the Wrangler 35-inch all-terrain tires, and lifts the suspension by 1.5 inches. This model comes standard with the more powerful V6 engine.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2022 Jeep Wrangler – The Pros

1. Incredible Off-Road Capability

All models of the 2022 Wrangler have either a part-time or full-time four-wheel-drive system. They are all also home to locking differentials, skid plates, and a transfer case. The Rubicon has traditionally been the most off-road-ready option, and it adds things like rock rails and heavy-duty axles. In 2022, drivers looking for capability off the beaten path may be more drawn to models with the new Xtreme Recon package.

2. Available with a Diesel Engine

There are actually five powertrains available for the 2022 Wrangler. One of the most exciting is the turbocharged 3.0L diesel inline-six-cylinder. It creates 260-horsepower and a hearty 442 lb-ft of torque. Other than the plug-in hybrid option, the diesel is the most efficient engine for the Wrangler. It will get drivers an estimated 22mpg in the city and 29mpg on the highway.

3. Available as a Plug-In Hybrid

Jeep has also created the 4xe powertrain. It is a plug-in hybrid setup that uses a turbocharged four-cylinder engine along with an electric motor. The output here is 375-horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Impressively, Jeep claims that you can get up to 25 miles on electric-only power with the 4xe. If the battery does happen to run out on you, the turbocharged engine has enough power to move the Wrangler around on its own.

4. Roof and Doors are Removable

The Jeep Wrangler truly captures the spirit of adventure. You can let in all the fresh air and sunlight that you want, thanks to the standard removable doors and roof. The standard soft top will fold back onto the rear tailgate easily. A hardtop roof is available and removable as well, or you could go with a top-trim level that is equipped with a power-operated soft top.

5. Spacious and Comfortable Seating

Although the Wrangler is more associated with weekend adventures than anything else, it is also a comfortable vehicle to sit in for your day-to-day driving. Models with two doors can seat up to four comfortably, while four-door models can seat up to five. Thanks to the boxy shape of the 2022 Wrangler, there is plenty of headroom to be found in both rows. Plush seating will mean that everyone stays comfortable on long drives.

6. Iconic Exterior Style

It is rare to come across someone who does not recognize the Wrangler on sight. Although there have been some small details that have changed over the years, this vehicle stills looks very similar to how it did when it first came out. Its retro style alone will entice many buyers. The new Xtreme Recon package embraces the classic nature of the Wrangler while making it look even more aggressive and modern.

7. User-Friendly Tech Available

While it is worth noting that the entry-level Wrangler is lacking an actual infotainment system, most models do have a setup that will be popular with drivers. Both 7-inch and 8.4-inch touchscreens are available. These models also have the UConnect 5 infotainment system, which is widely considered one of the easiest-to-use options on the market. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both included.

8. Heart-Pounding Rubicon 392 Model

How does a Hemi V8 that has been paired with the capability of a Wrangler sound to you? That is exactly what the Rubicon 392 has to offer. It creates 470-horsepower, 470 lb-ft of torque, and it can go from zero to 60 in just 4.5 seconds. This trim level also gets a heavy-duty braking system and other performance upgrades to help it take things to the next level, both on and off the pavement.

9. Versatile Storage Solutions

There are several packages that buyers can add to the 2022 Wrangler that will help them secure the type of gear they are commonly hauling. The Jeep Utility Grid is perfect for organizing smaller items, while the Trail Rail System is designed to handle gear you will use on your next adventure. This vehicle is also available with a removable cargo floor for even more convenience.

10. Many Customization Options

The way you adventure may be very different than the way your neighbor does. Luckily, Jeep makes it easy to get a Wrangler with everything you need. A cold weather package will add heated front seats and a remote start if you like to get out year-round. A trailer towing package is also available if you need to bring along a few toys, and the Xtreme Recon package will take the off-road ability of the Wrangler to the next level. With the towing package, four-door models can handle up to 3,500 pounds.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2022 Jeep Wrangler – The Cons

1. Less Cargo Space than Rivals in Two-Door Models

If you want the two-door version of the Wrangler, know that there are only 12.9 cubic feet of space behind the second row. This row does fold down, but doing so only gives you 31.7 cubic feet to work with. These are pretty dismal numbers. On the other hand, four-door models can give drivers up to 72.4 cubic feet, making it one of the most spacious compact SUVs out there.

2. On-Road Driving Dynamics Feel Rough

It is understandable that a few sacrifices had to be made to achieve the Wrangler's impressive off-road capability. That said, drivers will want to enjoy driving on the pavement as well. The ride is too firm and the cornering feels a bit dicey due to the amount of leaning the Wrangler does.

3. Lack of Standard Technology Features

The Wrangler models that have high-tech features have great ones. Still, it is unusual in this day and age that there are models that are lacking smartphone integration. Bluetooth does come standard, however, along with a 5-inch screen. The lack of technology may actually appeal to those who are seeking a straightforward vehicle that helps them get away from society for a while.

4. Too Much Noise in the Cabin

Whether on or off the road, the Wrangler is a noisy vehicle to ride inside. Both the road and the wind noise get annoying inside this vehicle. This, combined with the somewhat subpar cabin materials, makes the Wrangler a far less luxurious choice than most of its rivals.

5. Non-Hybrid Models are Thirsty

With its base engine, the Wrangler is estimated to get 20mpg in the city and 24mpg on the highway. These are terrible numbers for the class, although it is important to keep in mind the Wrangler's part-time four-wheel-drive system. If you opt for the V8 power, you can expect to get only 13mpg in the city and 17mpg on the highway.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

2022 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2022 Ford Bronco

The Bronco is undoubtedly the biggest rival of the 2022 Wrangler. These vehicles both have two-door and four-door models, plus incredible off-road capability. The Bronco does a pretty decent job on the road as well, unlike the Wrangler. On the other hand, the Bronco does not have a hybrid option and it is far from fuel-efficient.

2022 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2022 Land Rover Defender

Luxury and capability easily blend inside the Land Rover Defender. There are upscale touches throughout the cabin, plus a ton of available high-tech performance enhancers. Of course, none of this comes cheap. The Defender may be too expensive and too complicated for some shopping for an off-roader.

Conclusion

The 2022 Jeep Wrangler does exactly what someone would expect from this vehicle. It is capable, stylish, and a lot of fun. Moving forward, Jeep may want to consider a mild hybrid system on all models to help make them more efficient. Changes to the cabin that help isolate it from noise and make it feel a bit more sophisticated would be appreciated as well.