2011 Jeep Wrangler

The iconic Jeep Wrangler keeps getting better. While retaining unmatched, legendary off-road capability, the 2011 Jeep Wrangler boasts an all-new interior that delivers a host of comfort, convenience and the versatility of new features. In addition, Sahara models now feature a stunning, all-new body-color hard top, for customers looking for a Jeep Wrangler with a more premium appearance.

2011 Jeep Wrangler Exterior and Mechanics

For the exterior, buyers can choose from five additional paint colors: Detonator Yellow, Deep Cherry Red, Sahara Tan, Cosmos Blue, and Bright White. The optional hardtop for Sahara trim levels is now body-colored, for a more cohesive exterior look. It makes the two-door Wrangler look like a Dodge Nitro and the four-door Unlimited model resemble a Mercedes G-class.

The Jeep models are mechanically unchanged from 2010, with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine and six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmissions. Four-wheel-drive is standard on all but Unlimited models equipped with the automatic. Production of the 2011 Wranglers began earlier this week, so they'll be in dealerships soon.

Jeep Wrangler 2011 Trims and Style Offerings

The Sport B is said to be gaining steering-wheel mounted audio controls, cruise, and hill descent control; Sahara is said to gain an AC outlet and auto headlights; and options now include heated power mirrors and heated front seats.

Rubicon gets Rock-Trac 4x4 which uses an electronic sway bar disconnect, Tru-Lok locking differentials (front and rear), and NV2410R transfer case with 4:1 gear ratio, fiving the Wrangler a 73:1 gear ratio.

Standard Wrangler 4x4s get Command-Trac I, with shift-on-the-fly 4WD (at speeds under 60 mph), low gear, and neutral setting for towing without uncoupling the driveshafts. In low gear, torque is multiplied by 2.72:1. The front axle is a Dana 30, the rear axle is a Dana 44; a Trac-Lok differential is available.

The 2011 Jeep Wrangler is otherwise expected to be similar to the 2010 models, which have standard tow hooks, fog lamps, full-length center console, front floor mats, and cloth trim with front seatback map pockets. The Sunrider soft top is easier to remove than in older (mid-2000s) models. Some buyers may end up using a grease pencil or other device to dim the bright chrome on the steering wheel, which would otherwise reflect flashes of sun with the top off.

What can we expect new for 2011 Wrangler?

The 2011 Jeep Wrangler interior has a redesigned instrument panel and new storage areas, wth upgraded materials; a lockable console and upgraded true door armrests have more comfortable touch points, and the center stack is easier to reach and operate. Heated, power mirrors are now available, and larger rear windows increase visibility. The arm rest and door pull have a more ergonomic placement and design, with soft touch materials and more user-friendly locks.

Hill Descent Control is now standard on all Wranglers, along with the new instrument panel, center console, front and rear door panels, steering wheel, center stack, and defroster ducts. The soft-top has a 152mm-wider rear window, the door opens wider and has a detent, and power heated mirrors are available. The Freedom Top has larger rear and side windows (145 and 90 mm larger, respectively). The 2011 Wrangler Sport S model has loads of no charge equipment, adding air conditioning, satellite radio, 17-inch Moab-style wheel, tinted windows, and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob.

Steering-wheel controls have been added for the radio, cruise control, hands-free phone, and other functions, and a new USB interface connects storage devices (thumb drives and most MP3 players) to the Media Center, which now includes streaming Bluetooth audio. Twelve-volt accessory outlets have been added, and a new 110-volt outlet is optional. The new three-spoke steering wheel with bright accents (a potential problem with the top off) and audio controls is standard.

The center stack is now streamlined and step free with better access and visibility. A storage area has been added to the top of the instrument panel; and a new bin is under the rear carpet, with more cargo tie-downs and a reversible load floor mat with Jeep logos on both sides. A new center console includes soft touch surfaces, a more comfortable height, dual stage lid tray, and better opening size; it can still be locked. A Jeep grille logo sits behind the rearview mirror, and Jeep since 1941 is printed on the front passenger grab handle.

Hex-head bolts are used throughout the interior, including on a Jeep, Since 1941 inlay on the passenger grab handle. Added sound insulation cuts interior noise, and Sahara models have a new body-color hard top. The 2011 Jeep Wrangler colors are Detonator Yellow, Deep Cherry Red, Sahara Tan, Cosmos Blue and Bright White. Black replaces slate gray, black/dark saddle replaces dark/medium khaki on Sahara and Rubicon, and dark/medium khaki has been dropped from Sport.

Jeep Wrangler 2011 Overview

Perhaps the quintessential niche vehicle, the Jeep Wrangler has held the crown of ultimate off-roader ever since it was offered to the general public. This SUV's lineage goes back more than 60 years to the original military Jeep, the now-legendary 4x4 that transported World War II soldiers and supplies over very rough terrain.