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Would you buy a Jeep Wrangler for P3.39 million?

Or for an even higher P3.59 million for the top variant?

The all-new Wrangler is still tough and capable, but now comes with more toys for you. PHOTO BY VERNON B. SARNE

We’re pretty sure that when Jeep first launched the Wrangler model back in 1986, it was meant to be a no-frills, utilitarian vehicle that visually took inspiration from the 1940s Willys MB. More than three decades later, the popular SUV has evolved immensely to become a more sophisticated ride even as it has retained its off-road character.

And now, the fourth-generation model first unveiled to the world in late 2017 has officially arrived on our shores, thanks to the efforts of the brand’s distributor in our market, the Auto Nation Group.

Those 17-inch black wheels add to the style. PHOTOS BY VERNON B. SARNE

Today, ANG presented to the motoring media the all-new Wrangler powered by a 2.0-liter straight-four turbo gasoline engine that’s mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and rated at 268hp and 400Nm. A 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 gasoline engine will also be available, but ANG still couldn’t say when exactly.

Unlike the early Wrangler models, this one is loaded with more bells and whistles than an average camper would require in his workhorse: Selec-Trac 4WD system, conventional differential, electronic roll mitigation, stability control, traction control, hill descent control, hill-start assist, trailer sway damping, and 17-inch black wheels.

The Unlimited Sport is the higher of two variants. PHOTO BY VERNON B. SARNE

Inside, the new Wrangler for our market has a five-inch touchscreen display with Uconnect, eight speakers, USB ports, steering-wheel audio controls, 3.5-inch TFT instrument cluster, electronic steering, lockable glove compartment, auto-dim rearview mirror, full-length floor console, and rear storage tray.

The Wrangler interior has gone a long way from the first-generation model in the 1980s. PHOTO BY VERNON B. SARNE

But the Wrangler’s pièce de résistance is its ability to lose its roof and doors—not to mention fold its windshield—to transform into something that could pass for a tour transporter inside Jurassic Park. Yep, these parts are now removable so you can enjoy al fresco motoring in the boondocks whenever you feel like it.

Look, Ma! No roof and doors! Ready for fun. PHOTO BY MANSKEE NASCIMENTO

The all-new Wrangler has two variants for now:

  • Wrangler Unlimited Sport – P3,590,000
  • Wrangler Sport – P3,390,000

You read that right. What was once a nearly spartan utility vehicle is now a P3.5-million SUV. We guess versatility and toughness do come at a price.

UPDATE: We erroneously identified the engine as diesel. It’s gasoline. Our sincerest apologies to Jeep and our readers for the error.



Vernon B. Sarne

Vernon is the founder and editor-in-chief of VISOR. He has been an automotive journalist since July 1995. He became one by serendipity, walking into the office of a small publishing company and applying for a position he had no idea was for a local car magazine. God has watched over him throughout his humble journey. He writes the ‘Spoiler’ column.



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