2010 Jeep Wrangler

2010 JEEP WRANGLER REVIEW

The 2010 Jeep Wrangler is available in a four door and a two Wrangler Unlimited. Both versions offer the premium Rubicon model, the Sahara model, and the Sport model. In 2010, there are two special editions, the Mountain and the Islander that are also offered by Jeep. The Sahara and the Wrangler Unlimited Sport models are available in two wheel drive versions.

The 2010 Jeep Wrangler comes standard with 4.0:1 low range ratio, a two speed transfer case, a heave duty Dana front axle, additional up and down wheel travel controlled by the front stabilizer bar, and locking rear and front axles. This vehicle takes its off roading seriously.

The vehicle has a very high ride height, for better clearance and easier maneuverability, and short overhangs. This design in the vehicles construction also helps to make it so tenacious off of the road.

The two door Rubicon model is primarily for off roaders that are hard core. The departure angles and approach are not unlike the Unlimited model. The Unlimited model has a 20.8 degree break over angle as compared to the Rubicon model's 25.2 break over angle is a result of the Rubicon model’s wheelbase of only 20.6”.

The 2010 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon model comes standard with departure and approach angles that are greater that 37 degrees, a ground clearance of 8.7” minimum, skid plates, a fixed stabilizer bar, 2.72:1 low range gearing, and axle lockers. All models come standard with solid axle independent suspension.

The 2010 Jeep Wrangler comes standard with a V6 engine that produces 237 foot pounds of torque and 202 hp. This is somewhat insufficient as the engine sounds strained under acceleration which is poor. Standard also is a manual transmission with six speeds. Optional is the automatic transmission with four speeds. The EPA fuel economy estimates are 19 mpg highway and 15 mpg city. The towing capacity is 3,500 pounds for the Unlimited model and 2,000 pounds for the Wrangler.

The 2010 Jeep Wrangler’s steering leaves something to be desired on the highway. It is fine for off roading but since the Wrangler’s aerodynamics are subject to nasty crosswinds the steering wheel needs to be constantly corrected in order to remain on course on the highway it is a constant fight. Even for an SUV, the excessive body roll and vague steering turn make cornering difficult.

The 2010 Jeep Wrangler has a 34.9’ turning radius but the turning radius for the Unlimited model is 41.2’ makes turning at a tight angle difficult. All models of the 2020 Jeep Wrangler come standard with antilock brakes on all four wheels. However, overall stopping distance is less that average and the pedal is mushy.

The 2010 Jeep Wrangler has an interior that is purposeful. The controls are straightforward, upright, and open. The vehicle has foot well drain plugs, removable carpeting, the floor is washable, and all of the materials in the interior appear that they can withstand dirt and mud. Two tone leather is optional on the Rubicon and Sahara models and stain resistant fabric is standard. However, the steering wheel doesn’t telescope, there is a lack of legroom, and there is virtually no lateral support when the driver is in the front seat.

The headroom is adequate in the 2020 Jeep Wrangler. The backseat legroom is tight in the Wrangle is tight and only somewhat better in the Unlimited model. The legroom in the backseat is also adequate but there is inadequate thigh support because the seat cushions are somewhat short. In addition, prior to putting the seatbacks down, you have to flip the seat cushions forward. However, the cargo space for the Unlimited model is a healthy 86.6 ft3.

Rather than having the conventional upward extending lift gate, the 2010 Jeep Wrangler’s rear swing gate extends several feet rearward. A tailgate may be easier to open but it needs more clearance especially when parking parallel. Only after the spare tire and the tailgate are opened will the rear window open independently. Also the 2010 Jeep Wrangler has a lack of detents and won’t remain in place because of the hinges which are detachable. If an open one is left unattended, and it is free to drift which means that it might wander into an adjacent car while you’re busy with a child or unloading groceries.

The 2010 Jeep Wrangler comes standard with convertible soft top and removable doors, although it isn’t recommended the Jeep be driven without the doors on because they are there to provide protection in the event of a side impact. The soft top uses a new cable system which means that that there is no need to fool around with the side rails. Also standard is a CD stereo system with speakers that can be relocated to the roof bars, and a windshield that folds down. Optional is the Freedom Top, which has three hard panels that can be opened up.

Although the 2020 Jeep Wrangler comes standard with an electronic stability system and antilock brakes, reliability has been poor. Also, the Wrangler doesn’t come standard with side airbags. The only option available is side airbags that are mounted in the seat. Although both the Sport and the Limited models scored well for front end crash tests, without the side airbags the two door scored poorly for side impacts and the Wrangler Unlimited only scored marginal.

The 2010 two door Jeep Wrangler Sport model will set you back $21,165 with four wheel drive. Unlimited Sport models will cost you $24,585 for four wheel drive or $23,410 for two wheel drive. The 2010 Jeep Wrangler comes standard with a CD stereo system, a windshield that folds down, removable doors, and the Freedom Top. Although the automatic transmission is standard on the two wheel drive Unlimited models, it will cost you $825 on the Sport model. The optional side airbags will cost you $490. Available options on all of the models include a navigation system, cruise control, remote keyless entry, power locks and windows, air conditioning, and half doors with plastic windows. If you elect to buy some of the options and the two door Rubicon model can cost over $30,000 and if you buy them all it can cost near $40,000.

Although the 2010 Jeep Wrangler isn’t the perfect daily driver, the fact is that it can be driven on the highway and is an excellent vehicle for off roading. All and all, it is a great vehicle for a single, couples or small families who want to go on a vacation in the mountains or just do some off roading.