When picking a vehicle for off-road adventures, Wrangler will be probably the name with the most recommendations. The SUV comes as the compact or the mid-size model, depending on if you want a two- or four-door layout. There are a lot of other options under the hood, inside the cabin (if you pick the crossover SUV with a top), and trim levels. The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is definitely something that elevates the ride to another level, although the standard configuration sets some high standards.
There are no too many vehicles that can compete with the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. We can say the Toyota 4Runner also has a wide base of fans. Still, instead of offering a compact version, the SUV comes in a three-row variant. Land Rover Defender came back this season. Still, the legendary nameplate will need some time to catch up with older vehicles in the class. The same will be with Ford Bronco, which will also bring a two-door edition, as well as the Raptor package. All in all, the Wrangler Rubicon will have a larger competition. On the other hand, it could make designers and engineers improve the ride even further.
Why 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Is So Special?
The Rubicon package is well-known among the fans of off-road adventures. This is one of the trademarks of most Jeep vehicles. Well, some are not offering this version. Buyers of Cherokee or Compass crossovers can select the Trailhawk, as a lighter off-roader. Still, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon takes the adventures to another level, no matter which version (standard or Unlimited) you pick, as well as the engine. Nevertheless, the 4×4 setup will work way better with the Pentastar unit. There is no two-wheel drive, but the smart transmission is not going to exploit the full potential of a 4WD when it is not necessary.
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon will use the special drive system configuration with Dana axles and unique differentials. Roc-Trac package is bringing a unique 4×4 setup. Also, the sway bar is controlled electronically. Still, you can upgrade the ride with shocks. Favorites in the aftermarket are Billstein and Fox, although Skyjacker and Rancho are not bad options as well.
Engines of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
All three engines available for the rest of the lineup will be there for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. The 3.6-liter V6, also known as the Pentastar, is probably the best choice. 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque is enough for most off-road tasks. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard, but we hear that Jeep could drop this one in the foreseeable future. An eight-pace gearbox is much smoother for all the engine options.
A four-cylinder powerplant is optional. Turbocharged 2.0-liter displacement can produce 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. However, lags are not making it as reliable as V6. Still, it is an excellent version of a two-door model and ride on the asphalt.
The last option for the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is a diesel 3.0-liter V6. However, this one is available only with an 8-speed gearbox and Unlimited model. The turbodiesel is very powerful with 260 hp, and 440 lb-ft of torque is going to provide enough energy for smooth operations off the road. Another good thing about this one is the fuel economy, which is way above both petrol units.
Novelties
One of the new things we can see on the Wrangler is the plug-in hybrid setup. Test mules were out there, but the COVID-19 outburst slowed down the development. The PHEV configuration is upgrading the eTorque system. The mild-hybrid didn’t bring what we expect from such a drivetrain. Nevertheless, it served as a good start for further development. Now, the FCA is ready for the new era. On the other hand, we still don’t know if the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon PHEV is possible. Since the package is available with other engines, the new one should also be available.
Other Versions
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon will be top of the range model. Recon is the special package that pushes the performance to the limits. Nevertheless, there are also unique upgrades for other models that make them more attractive. Sahara is a good alternative for not so extreme off-roading. Freedom is the mid-range offer, while the base package is Wrangler Sport. All Sahara and Altitude versions are exclusively available with a four-door configuration. Other trims, including the Rubicon, will also offer a two-door layout and shorter wheelbase.
Prices
The base Rubicon package will cost above $39,000 with a two-door cabin. Larger vehicle adds $3,500. Recon version will cost $44,000 and $47,500. If you are not happy with a V6 as the standard engine, you can replace it with a turbo-four for free, or pay $4,000 for a diesel. An 8-speed gearbox upgrade will cost $3,000 for gasoline, and $2,000 for oil burner, making it cost $50,000 without further upgrades.
