Engine

The 2022 Wrangler offers five engine options, of which the standard is a 3.6-liter V6, 285-horsepower setup, which can be coupled with either an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. The V6 does sound a bit rough when stretched but is strong enough to carry the Wrangler around the city and on highways without any problems. Coupling the V6 engine with the mild-hybrid eTorque system can improve acceleration and reduce fuel consumption.

The manual transmission is decent, but the shifter needs long throws. The automatic offers prompt and smooth shifts, and is standard on all the other engines.

The Wrangler is also available with a 2-liter turbocharged, 270-horsepower engine that, despite the lower output, packs a stronger punch than the base V6. This is also very much the case with the optional 3-liter turbo-diesel V6 with 260-horsepower, even though it does produce a rather husky sound. Leading the engine list is the Rubicon 392, bragging a 6.4-liter and 470-horsepower V8. The Rubicon 392 does drink fuel like a thirsty camel, but it takes less than 5 seconds to propel the Wrangler from 0 to 60 miles per hour.

The Wrangler 4xE offers a greater balance between efficiency and performance. This hybrid plug-in model offers 375 horsepower and has been equipped with a four-cylinder turbocharged engine along with a pair of electric motors. This setup will let you drive the Wrangler around on battery power alone, and the hybrid mode promotes swift passing power and acceleration.

Mileage

For a compact SUV, the Wrangler’s fuel economy ranges between fair and poor. With the base V6 engine, you can get an EPA-rated 23 miles-per-gallon on highways and 18 miles-per-gallon within the city; with the manual transmission, the ratings are 25 and 17 mpg for highway and city, respectively. With the mild-hybrid system, the ratings go up to 24 and 20 mpg. The diesel engine and four-cylinder models are rated at 29 and 22, and 24 and 22 mpg, respectively. The V8 models, meanwhile, return a fairly poor 17 and 13 miles-per-gallon rating.

The 4xE hybrid plug-in can cover a maximum of 21 miles in all-electric mode and returns an average of around 20 miles per gallon when in hybrid mode. Charging the 17.3-kWh battery pack can take around 12 hours using a typical 120-volt household power outlet. With a 240-volt outlet, you can expect a fully-charged battery in around 2.5 hours.

Handling and Ride

Despite integrating a host of modern features, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler is still pretty old-school in terms of on-road handling and refinement.  The solid-axle suspension causes the Wrangler to jitter and jolt on irregular pavements – something that can be problematic on lengthier trips. The steering lacks speed and precision, and the Wrangler struggles to stand its ground against crosswinds on the highway. The brakes are adequately powerful, although the pedal response does feel a bit vague. All in all, pretty much any compact SUV would better the Wrangler in terms of daily use suitability.

Off-Road Performance

The Wrangler’s mediocre off-road performance translates to stellar off-road capabilities. The solid axles and coil springs do a good job on challenging terrains, and the SUV’s body-on-frame construction ensures that it is tough enough to endure the occasional impact from fallen branches or rocks. Skid plates are in-built in all trims, and upgrades like super-low-range gearing, locking differentials, and protective rock rails are available. The tire variety ranges from the standard, all-season 31-inch to the colossal, all-terrain 35-inch.

Towing Capacity

With the proper equipment, the two-door Wrangler can tow up to 2,000 pounds. The four-door Unlimited version has a higher maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds.

Interior

It may not be the most accommodating or spacious compact SUV, but the 2022 Wrangler offers a good blend of modern and vintage Jeep personality. Everything looks pretty solid and nicely compiled, even though the lower versions could have done with lesser hard plastic. The padded and leather-wrapped surfaces of the more expensive trims, however, deliver a luxury vibe.

On the flip side, the cabin –regardless of trim level – lets in a great deal of noise and wind. This drawback is particularly prominent in versions with mud tires and soft tops.

Cargo Space

The Unlimited has 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats –with the rear seats folded; this number leaps up to 72.4. These ratings mean that the Wrangler’s cargo space is one of the largest in this class, and can accommodate pretty much anything – from home improvement supplies to luggage to camping gear.  At the other extreme is the two-door wrangler with its 12.9 and 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space – one of the smallest in the class.

Passenger Space

The two-door Wrangler has four seats, while the four-door Unlimited version has five.  Regardless of the model you go for, you will find nicely-cushioned, supportive front seats, offering plenty of legroom and headroom. The large windows and upright driving position offer a commanding view, even though the rear sightlines could have been broader.

The rear seats for the two-door model are roomy enough for kids, but adults may feel somewhat cramped (once they get through the pain and hassle of accessing the rear row). The four-door Unlimited model has back seats that are easily accessible and comfortable for both adults and children.

Verdict

Regardless of price, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler is one of the best compact SUVs going around. Tough and tested, the Wrangler can survive off-road adventures that would likely prove too much for many of its rivals. The downside is that this Jeep is quite uncomfortable, and not exactly the best choice for daily use. If off-road trips are a rarity for you, you may want to look elsewhere.

To learn more about the 2022 Jeep Wrangler and decide if it is the right fit for you, please feel free to visit our nearest Jeep dealership in Cranbrook Dodge.