It may be a niche product, but the Jeep Wrangler has been a moneymaker in the Philippines. Popular with the overloading crowd, its rugged and tough looks are backed up by true off-road capabilities.
The current-generation Wrangler made its world debut in 2017. Known internally as the JL, it has since been given an update in 2023. North America and Europe were among the first to get it.
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Now, it’s finally arrived in Southeast Asia. Thailand is the first country to get it in the region as it premiered at the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show.
Over there, it’s only sold in one variant, the off-road oriented Rubicon. That means it gets the Trail Rated badge on the fender and a host of off-road enhancements. It includes locking differentials for the front and rear, disconnecting anti-roll bars, skid plates, and an Off-Road+ mode.
From the outside, it’s identical to the North American version of the SUV. The 2024 model brings a smaller and slimmer grille, but that change wasn’t just made for aesthetic reasons. The smaller grille allows the new Wrangler to be fitted with the factory-installed 8,000-lb.-capacity (over 3,600kg) Warn winch.
Inside, the infotainment system gets a major overhaul. It now boasts a much larger display that now measures 12.3-inches. The wider screen also houses the latest version of Jeep’s infotainment system. Dubbed UConnect 5, it adds the latest software from the company, along with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functions plus a cleaner and crisper display on the screen.
In Thailand, the only engine the Jeep Wrangler comes with a is a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder with 270hp and 400Nm of torque. It then shifts with an eight-speed automatic transmission. While there are V6 and V8 options available, it appears that the 2.0-liter turbo will be the sole choice. There’s a good chance that it will also be offered for the Philippine market as the sole engine choice.
