Wrangler still made from the right stuff

ROAD TEST/ Though newly modernised, the American icon retains its offroad ability and old-school cool, writes Denis Droppa

Tand here“old-school is something cool” endearingly analogue about the newgeneration Jeep Wrangler, as much as it has progressed into the digital world.

There’s still a lever to switch between two- and four-wheel drive and to select low range, unlike the button- or touchscreen-operated versions found in most modern 4x4s — including the new-generation Defender, which is soon to be launched in SA.

You get the impression that the Wrangler isn’t simply an ubermodern SUV that happens to have a retro-style boxy shape, like a boy band with a carefully curated public image.

It walks the talk and presents its authentic self, like leatherclad rock stars of the Guns ’n Roses ilk. You know that’s how they dress at home and at the supermarket.

The US-made Wrangler is as key to Jeep’s brand identity as the 911 is to Porsche, which is why the styling of this fourthgeneration iteration time-warps back to great-granddaddy Willys Jeep of the 1940s. That boxy body, seven-slat grille, and wide stance with pumped-out wheelarches are all still there, conveying a sense of sturdiness that looks like the car could drive through a brick wall.

It’s a look that seems purpose built for rugged dirt adventures, and in time-honoured tradition the body still perches on a rugged ladder frame chassis and rides on off-road-focused solidaxle suspension.

The door and bonnet hinges are still on the outside, instead of being tucked away in pursuit of clean lines and slippery aerodynamics. The doors and front roof panels are removable and the windscreen can still be folded down for an open-air experience.

The iconic round headlamps are now LEDs, and so are the new daytime running lights mounted on the wheel arches, but this slight styling tweak has not sanitised Jeep’s most iconic vehicle.

Heres ’ a car that needs no of badge today to ’identify s generic it, unlike automotive some shapes, including the latest Jeep Cherokee which, without its

Top: The new Jeep Wrangler is the tough offroader it always was. Above: Boxy is best: Little has changed in the styling of the newgeneration Wrangler, left, compared with the previous one.

The new infotainment system is set into a cabin that feels as tough and rugged as ever.