WRANGLER TAKES REINS IN JEEP ROUND-UP

Nothing could be more Jeep than the Wrangler. Introduced in 1986, the mid-size SUV has been central to the maker’s brand identity since World War II when it was produced by Willys. Progressing through the CJ (Civilian Jeeps) to this day they use a separate body and frame, rigid live axles, a tapering nose design with flared fenders, a fold-flat windscreen and can be driven without doors. Also, with a few exceptions, they have part-time four-wheel drive systems, with high and low gearing, and standard open bodies with removable hard… Read more

JEEP TAKES THE ALTERNATIVE TRAIL

The Jeep Wrangler has changed direction, with the off-road icon, among other things, turning its back on bitumen soft-roading to step up in the rough with more pulling power at low revs. For the 2024 Wrangler, the Pentastar V6 engine has been retired in favour of a turbocharged four-cylinder motor, the latter forgoing 9 kW of power in favour of 53 Nm more torque and better fuel economy. Towing capacity remains unchanged at 2495 kg for a braked trailer. The MY24 Wrangler comes in four variants, all cheaper and with… Read more

JEEP GLADIATOR RUBICON ROAD TEST

The Jeep Gladiator is an old acquaintance. The last time we drove one, we managed to get it bogged. How embarrassing . . . the first time in 25 years of road testing vehicles that this had happened to us. And here the Gladiator is again, sitting in the driveway, waiting patiently to go for a drive — like a dog that wants to go for a walk? But where to go? Where do you take a 4×4 when it’s pouring rain and you’re not real keen on getting bogged… Read more

JEEP GLADIATOR RUBICON

Jeep’s Gladiator was inevitable, as sure as four doors follow two. Launched here in 2020, it’s a tough-looking, dual cab, five-seat utility with storied off- road credentials. Gladiator is a competitor for Toyota’s Hilux Rogue, Ford Ranger Raptor and other range-toppers, and comes with a sizeable price tag to match. Although tradies have an affinity for flashy 4×4 dual cab utes, oddly you don’t see many driving a Gladiator. In fact, you don’t see many of them full stop. Maybe they are more interested in the look than taking their… Read more