Standing out as the most expensive edition in the entire Wrangler range, the is all about off-road capability, with a bit of luxury thrown in for good measure.
Rising above every other trim level in the line-up of Wranglers, the Hard Rock edition aims to please the enthusiasts that place mud and rock crawling over smooth city rides. With a sticker price of over $40.000, it isn’t exactly cheap, but it makes up for it by packing quite a punch.
Starting with the most noticeable aspect, that is, the exterior, the Wrangler Rubicon Hard Rock features special front and rear steel bumpers, Mopar rock rails, tow hooks both in front and in the back, a Rubicon hood decal and a power dome hood, that looks straight out of a muscle car. Skid plates for the fuel tank and the transfer case come as standard, as well as a specially calibrated suspension system. Dana 44 heavy duty front and rear axles replace the stock ones, for enhanced off-road capabilities. Wrapped in beefy 32 inch BF Goodrich off-road tires, the 17 inch polished black wheels with a special design and the full size, rear mounted spare wheel augment the package.
Inside, the Rubicon Hard Rock’s cabin reflects the rugged nature of the exterior. With a minimalistic, utilitarian decor, the Jeep could hardly be called a luxury vehicle, but this edition, however, gives a certain sense of presence. Fine leather covers the front and rear seats, while the front bucket ones are heated. Air conditioning, as well as a tinted windshield and tinted Sunscreen windows create a more relaxing atmosphere.
On the multimedia front, a UConnect system, with Bluetooth voice command capabilities aims to simplify the way you interact with the car. A radio unit with CD/DVD and auxiliary input is supplemented by the SiriusXM Satellite Radio and a premium Alpine 9 speaker audio system; for additional ease of use, the audio controls are also mounted on the steering wheel.
Underneath the powerfully contoured hood, a Pentastar V6, with a 3.6 litre displacement and 285 horsepower/260 pound-feet of torque is linked to a six speed manual transmission. Very short gearing, together with a tried and tested four wheel drive system and a transfer case with a low crawl ratio allow it to tackle almost everything you can throw at it. The estimated combined fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon is quite an honourable feat for an off-road machine, but keep in mind that the figure might change, depending on driving conditions and the manner in which the vehicle is manoeuvred.