2009 Jeep Wrangler Review

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The 2009 Jeep Wrangler is one of the most capable off-roader available, just as it has been for decades. When it comes to hardcore trailblazing, the Jeep Wrangler  is rarely matched.  New for 2009 all models now get standard Hill Start Assist, which temporarily maintains brake pressure after pedal release to prevent rollback.  All Wranglers come with the V6, the standard six-speed manual fits the Wrangler's personality, but the optional four-speed automatic is convenient.  Trim levels include the base X, midlevel Sahara and Rubicon.  When the Wrangler was redesigned in 2007, a four-door version, called Wrangler Unlimited was introduced.  The four-door doesn't change the character of the Wrangler but makes it easier to own and more practical for many.  The Wrangler is an icon and it can deliver inimitable fun.  Competitors to the Wrangler include the Nissan Xterra and Toyota FJ Cruiser.

Powering the '09 Wrangler

A 3.8-liter V-6 is the sole drivetrain for the Wrangler. The Wrangler X uses a standard four-wheel-drive system incorporating a two-speed transfer case for part-time use.  Jeeps with 17-inch wheels add monotube shock absorbers in place of the X's twin-tube setup, and Wrangler Rubicons get a four-wheel-drive transfer case with a 4:1 low-range gear ratio plus heavy-duty Dana 44 axles, each with a locking differential.

Driving a Jeep Wrangler

The Wrangler might feel twitchy and choppy to first time Wrangler drivers, but this is a relative thing. Driving and handling has vastly improved from older generation models. Compared to the last-generation Wrangler, the wheelbase has been increased by 2 inches and the track by 3.4 inches; the chassis has been stiffen ed and the suspension redesigned.  Offroad mainstays include a non-independent suspension (solid front and rear axles) and a part-time four-wheel-drive system with available dual locking differentials.  Other offroad features include underbody skid plates, an available tow package and an available electronically disconnecting front stabilizer bar for increased ground clearance.  On the highway the Wrangler is stable and surprisingly quiet, when the pavement was smooth, although it does still feel bouncy on city streets.

2009 Jeep Design

The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most widely recognizable vehicles in the world, and identifying an Unlimited is easy, check four the four doors.  Actually, the latest generation Wrangler looks quite similar to the previous generation, which ended with the 2006 model year.  Regular cab models are 162.9 inches long and 73.7 inches wide.  An available three-panel hardtop has removable sections above the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. Up front you'll find the classic round headlamps, Jeep's seven-slot grille, and a front bumper with integrated fog lamps.  The upright fold-down windshield is slightly curved for better aerodynamics and reduced wind noise.  Along the sides, all Wranglers have assist steps under the doors to make climbing in easier, and fender flares that are bolted on, so they can be easily taken off and replaced with cooler aftermarket flares. 

Cabin Space

Wranglers have traditionally been known as cramped inside, but the current Jeep Wrangler two-door is a lot roomier inside than pre-2007 models, thanks to its increased width. The comfortable high-back front seats offer 5.1 inches more shoulder room and 4.6 inches more hip room than previous-generation models. The removable rear seat provides 3.9 inches more shoulder room, 1.6 inches more hip room and 1 inch more leg room for each of the two passengers. There are also 2 more inches behind the rear seat, which folds to provide nearly twice the cargo capacity as before.  Total passenger volume measures 102.9 cubic feet in the regular-length Wrangler and 103.9 cubic feet in the Unlimited. The rear seats fold, leaving a maximum of 56.5 cubic feet of cargo volume in the regular-length Wrangler and 83 cubic feet in the Unlimited. Lockable storage spaces include the center console and a compartment integrated into the rear load floor. For 2009, a drop-in bin and some nets were added to the center stack for increased storage.

Lineup for '09

The Unlimited X and Unlimited Sahara come with rear-wheel drive (2WD) or 4WD. The Wrangler X comes with the basic soft top, vinyl upholstery, center console, theft deterr ent system, folding rear seat, locking glove box, 12-volt auxiliary power outlet, tilt steering wheel, six-speaker AM/FM/CD stereo, skid plates to protect the transfer case and fuel tank, and P225/75R16 all-terrain tires on steel wheels.

The Sahara is the premium model in the lineup.  It adds the Sunrider top; Yes Essentials cloth upholstery; height-adjustable driver's seat; air conditioning; cruise control; fog lamps; 368-watt Infinity sound system with six speakers and subwoofer; leather-wrapped steering wheel; tow hooks; fog lamps; compass; outside temperature indicator; body-colored fender flares; tubular side steps; heavy-duty suspension; tinted windows.

The Rubicon is the model for serious off-roading.  To the X model, the Wrangler Rubicon adds amenities such as air conditioning, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, height-adjustable driver's seat, floormats, compass, outside temperature indicator, and a 368-watt Infinity sound system with six speakers and subwoofer.It also adds off-road equipment that includes front and rear tow hooks, rock rails, off-road suspension, an electronic-disconnecting front stabilizer bar to enhance off-road capability, a Rock-Trac heavy duty part-time transfer case with 4:1 low range, Dana 44 front and rear axles, a 4.10 axle ratio, Tru-lok locking front and rear differentials, fog lights, and LT255/75R17 (32-inch) BFGoodrich all-terrain tires on aluminum wheels. The four-door Unlimited X comes with either 2WD or four-wheel drive.

Safety Features

The Wrangler has a standard electronic stability system with Chrysler's new rollover mitigation technology, which can pulse individual brakes in an attempt to prevent impending rollovers. Front airbags are standard and side-impact airbags are optional for the front seats. Also standard are smart key that immobilizes the engine in a theft attempt, all-speed traction control, and antilock braking system with on- and offroad calibrations.


The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most capable off-road vehicles available today. Its four-wheel drive system also offers all-weather security and its convertible body style offers open-air fun. Read a review by Motortrend magazine for another take on the '09 Wrangler.  The Unlimited body style has greater cargo capacity, making the Wrangler more practical. You'll give up a lot of ride and handling prowess, as well as fuel mileage, but the Wrangler is fun.  Fuel Economy Range for the 2009 Wrangler is 19 mpg Hwy, 15 mpg City.  The Wrangler has an MSRP of $20,710 - $28,815. Visit the Wrangler's official site for further information.