The Different Jeep Wrangler JK Models
The basic model is the Wrangler Sport (a JK, of course, released in 2006 to replace the TJ models that were produced from 1996-2006). The Sport, being a "basic" model, doesn't mean it's lacking on anything in general. It's still built as a 4x4 to get you where you need to go. But just with the basics. Generally, it comes with the lowest price tag, so if you're eating mac & cheese most evenings and washing your laundry in your bathtub to save a few coins, the Wrangler Sport might fit your budget.
With the Wrangler Sport, you still get a Command Trac System, skid plates for the fuel tank and transfer case, and an interior you can wash out with a garden hose. Also a 3.6L V6 with 285 hp. Not bad for getting the lowest payment option on a new Jeep. If you want to roll the dice, you can go for the Sport S Wrangler. You get some nice wheels and electronic door locks and power windows. The next step up is the Wrangler Sahara. The Sahara comes with more creature comforts, and more options to go a bit further with your off-road driving and adventures. First of all, you get special wheels, and the fender flares are painted to match the body color. You can get comfortable in the Sahara's embroidered seats, or dial up the Alpine Stereo to rock out to your favorite tunes.
The Warngler Sahara's outside features include skid plates, tow hooks, and a Command Trac or Rock Trac suspension. Because after all, you've got trails to drive and mountains to conquer. You might as well do it in style. If you're looking specifically to buy and take a Jeep Wrangler off-road, you're probably thinking about the big daddy ride, the Rubicon. Fun Fact: The Rubicon name (in context with 4x4s and Jeeps) comes from an off-road trail in northern California. It's a tough trail, and so, makes an appropriate name for a Jeep model.
Rubicons are for the off-road enthusiasts who want to tackle some of the more rugged trails and areas. You get many of the options of the Sport Jeep and Sahara models, but you get a lot more, like the set of special Rubicon wheels. Your new Jeep will also have electronic sway bar disconnects, Rock-Trac with Tru-Lock differentials, and fog lamps. There are some new interior amenities, but the real action takes place on the outside of your Jeep anyways.
Special Edition and Custom Jeep Wrangler Models
We've taken a basic look at the standard Wrangler Sport vs. Sahara vs. Rubicon models. But Jeep also has Wranglers that are Special Editions, or specific optional packages. The Jeep Altitude is one of the latest models. This Wrangler package includes a grille that matches the body color, black headlight rings, off road Rock Rails, a Power Dome Hood, five spoke aluminum wheels, and high gloss black paint. Not to mention some leather in the interior, and an Alpine sound system. There is also the Dragon Edition Jeep Wrangler. The interior gets Dragon accent stitching, with a pattern on the seats, an Alpine sound system, grab handles, a Mopar fuel filler door, side steps, and Gold and black wheels. It even includes a spare tire cover with a Dragon pattern on it. This is definitely a sharp looking ride, but it's ready for off-roading too. The color scheme is reminiscent of the Bandit's '77 Trans Am.
Jeep Wrangler Freedom Edition. Obviously, this Special Edition is geared towards the Jeep's military heritage, without going overboard. This model features a premium soft top, Freedom badging and decals, a Granite Crystal grille, side steps, and the "Oscar-Mike" badge (In military jargon, “O” stands for Oscar, and “M” stands for Mike. Together, they indicate OM, “On the Move"). As Jeep says, you now have the "Freedom to Explore".
Another model is the Wrangler-X Edition. This unique Jeep gives you the Alpine sounds, Jeep slush mats, Rock Rails, the Power Dome, special wheels, and Dana 44 Tru-Lock axles. Sounds like a good combination to get you off in the woods or rock climbing on the weekends. Sign us up. By the way, they also made a Rubicon Hard Rock. This option gives your Rubicon even more extras, such as an Alpine system, adaptable bumper design, 17 inch wheels, and a custom hood design. You won't get lost in the Jeep crowd here. It's a Rubicon that's ready to rock!
One for the military buffs is the Jeep Wrangler Willys Edition. How about some grab handles, slush mats, deep tinted windows, black bumpers, custom wheels, and some old style military looking decals? It even comes with a Trail Recovery Bag Kit. This Wrangler gives you an older look with an all new appeal. A good tribute to the Jeep legacy, and the servicemen of our country. These are just a few of the various Jeep Wrangler models, recent and forthcoming. Essentially, they're all JK Wranglers. Most of them will use similar parts, except where a package may have something as one-of-a-kind offering. Generally, Jeep swaps different parts from different models all the time, and those parts come off their shelf. So for the most part, it's not to hard to get the parts for a JK Wrangler, even these special editions. But we're sure they're fun to drive and fun to own nonetheless.
