by Scott Shaddox

Created on: August 03, 2010

Despite the striking resemblance, today's Jeep Wrangler is a much different vehicle than its military based ancestor.  The Jeep first roamed the battlefields of World War II and over time has slowly evolved into a vehicle which is as comfortable on the highways of America as it is rock climbing through the back country.  In 2007, significant changes were made to the Wrangler line including the introduction of the four-door Wrangler.  Subsequent models of the Wrangler have produced minor changes and it remains somewhat difficult to distinguish the 2007 model from the 2010 model.  The 2011 Jeep Wrangler rolls off the assembly line with several changes, especially the interior.  Following are a few of the major features and enhancements introduced with the 2011 Jeep Wrangler.

Like its most recent predecessors, the 2011 Wrangler comes in three trim levels for the two-door and four-door unlimited models.  The entry level Sport, the road ready Sahara, and the trail warrior Rubicon make up the first choice buyers will have to make when purchasing a new Jeep.  All 2011 Jeep Wranglers come standard with a 3.8L V6 engine.  A four-speed automatic remains optional.  Colors offered this year include: Black, Bright Silver Metallic, Bright White, Cosmos Blue, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl, Detonator Yellow, Flame Red, Mango Tango Pearl, Natural Green Pearl, and Sahara Tan. 

A Sunrider soft top, which folds half way back and can act as a sun roof, again comes standard on all Wranglers.  A three-piece hardtop, known as the “Freedom Top,” remains as an option and a dual top option can be selected for those who would like both tops.  For the first time, the Sahara model comes with an optional body color top.

The interior of the 2011 Jeep Wrangler has also undergone changes. Interior colors include black, which comes standard on the Sport, and Black/Dark Saddle, an optional color for both the Sahara and Rubicon.  The Sport comes with cloth seats, while the Sahara and Rubicon come with an option for McKinley leather.  This year's Jeep comes with both oil pressure and a voltmeter included in the instrument panel, another feature which distinguishes this year's Jeep from earlier models.

Other significant changes found in the 2011 Jeep Wrangler include a 115 volt power outlet for both the Sahara and Rubicon, and power heated windows are now part of the Power Convenience Group.  As in past years features such as electronic stability control, hill start assist, four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes, a tire pressure monitoring warning light, Sentry Key engine immobilizer, fog lamps and tow hooks, and an automatic oil change monitoring system come standard.  A variety of features can be added to the Wrangler including a remote start system, locking rear axles, power locks and windows, heavy duty suspension, a towing package, security alarm, and remote key-less entry to name a few.

Without question, the Jeep Wrangler is a symbol of American freedom and individuality.  While it has gained many “creature comforts” since its inception in 1941, the Jeep remains an off-road warrior.  The 2011 Jeep Wrangler carries on the proud tradition of the Jeep name.  

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