2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

A mark of a legend, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a true bred off-roader. But can it live up to the job of an everyday SUV is what we are here to find out?

Jeep Wrangler needs no introduction for the avid enthusiast but for those not in the know, this is the most capable off-roader money can buy. Priced at Rs 60.35 lakhs (ex-showroom), does the 2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon have in it the substance to become your go to vehicle both on and off the road. Well, let us find out?

2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Exterior Design:

The impression of a go anywhere and do anything SUV, the Rubicon offers a very masculine stance. No matter where you are, the overall design makes onlookers stand up and take notice. This is courtesy, a typical Jeep inspired front fascia that comprises of the American automakers trademarked grille followed by circular LED headlamps and a chunky bumper. At the sides there are these humongous 17-inch alloy wheels with massive cladding on its wheel arches. The off-road tyres further add character to the four-wheeler. While the tailgate offers a mounted spare wheel featuring a reverse camera and LED tail lights. Going by its silhouette, you might beg to differ that the New Mahindra Thar could be a better option to this vehicle. Let us remind you that there is no comparison between the two. Each has its own identities where the Wrangler Rubicon holds its own ground. For us, the sheer appearance did make an impact for the days spent with the SUV.

2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Interior:

Hop in and the cabin feels functional yet very rugged. The dashboard offers hard plastics and leather on top. The leather material feels a bit hard but intends to give the cabin a premium feel. From the driver's perspective, you find an instrument cluster featuring 2 circular dials split by a digital information display. Plus, there is a 3-spoke steering wheel with mounted controls. Move to the left and an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system instantly greets its occupants offering navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Below it, one will find an array of switches for the A/C control, audio system, power windows, Selec-Trac 4x4 System, among others. Further the use of chrome inserts gives the interior a distinctive look. While the black leather upholstery does provide the SUV an upmarket look, its seats upfront and towards the rear feel a bit hard. Lack of under thigh support is another negative point of this four-wheeler and could pose an issue especially while undertaking long drives. Space wise, there is no dearth for all its occupants.

From the safety aspect, it comes equipped with dual front airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Electronic Roll Mitigation, select speed control, side airbags, tire pressure monitoring system, Rear Park Assist System, rear camera and more.

2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Engine and Performance:

The beauty of Wrangler Rubicon is in its heart. Equipped with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo petrol engine, the off-roader is capable of producing a maximum power output of 268 bhp with 400 Nm of peak torque. In sheer performance, the engine feels refined and agile to take on the road and dirt without much of an adieu. The 8-speed automatic transmission on board does well to provide smooth shifts on the tarmac. While off-road, the 4-wheel drive system can take you places where other SUVs can’t. Further cementing its off-road capability, the Rubicon has received the coveted ‘Trail Rated Tough’ badge. This showcases the vehicle's ability to offer traction through some of the harshest and unpredictable driving conditions. It also asserts that the four-wheeler to crawl through small creeks and streams without any worry, manoeuvre tight spots with precise steering and pass over obstacles with ease through good suspension and axle articulation. On the whole there is abundant power and torque to take on any sort of terrain. With off-roader tyres, the ride quality of the SUV isn’t the greatest in its class.

2022 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon – Verdict

Finally, coming back to the question. Can it pass off as your everyday SUV? The simple answer is no because it is not practical for daily use. Despite more than adequate power and torque its ride quality is on the harsher side which on long distance does become an issue for its occupants. Further its comfort and feature equipment on board is just adequate and, in our opinion, does not justify its hefty price tag. On the other hand, talking about its off-road capabilities this vehicle supersedes its competition.

So, if you are in the market for a product that symbolises status and pure off-road capability then the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon could be a very good option for you.