What’s new: 2011 Jeep Wrangler

Some model updates can go unnoticed at a quick glance, but changes made to the 2011 Jeep Wrangler might be hard to discern even after a long stare — unless you’re inside.

“The Jeep Wrangler continues to build on its historic success while retaining its legendary and unmatched performance,” said Ed Broadbear, Vice President of Marketing, Chrysler Canada. “The new 2011 Jeep Wrangler comes equipped with an all-new interior that delivers an array of comfort and convenience features. In addition, Sahara models offer a body-colour hard top for customers looking for a Jeep Wrangler with a premium appearance.”

Certainly when outfitted in Sahara trim the body-colour matching removable hardtop will set the 2011 Wrangler and four-door Wrangler Unlimited apart from previous years, but interior updates will do a whole lot more to attract new buyers and cause current owners to trade up.

Next year’s Wrangler gets a new steering wheel with standard redundant switchgear for radio, cruise control, hands-free phone and other vehicle functions, plus an updated instrument panel, a revised centre stack, a lockable console, softer armrests and materials improvements all-round, while larger rear windows help with rearward visibility.

Keeping the Wrangler current is a new USB interface and Bluetooth streaming audio. Tunes will sound better for 2011 thanks to a new “acoustical treatment” designed to reduce interior noise.

New paint colours include Bright White, Cosmos Blue, Deep Cherry Red, Detonator Yellow, and Sahara Tan.

Wrangler sales have increased 78 per cent CYTD in Canada, including a July sales record with 1,483 units sold, up 183 per cent when compared to July 2009.

The new 2011 Wrangler has already gone into production at Chrysler’s Toledo Assembly Complex, and should be available soon.

Photograph by: Chrysler, handout