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Off-Road Warrior:
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

January 24, 2019 by admin

2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited
The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited adds 22 inches and a pair of rear doors over the standard model.

What has been said about the Jeep Wrangler that hasn’t been uttered before? Not much, especially as this traditional body-on-frame Jeep utility vehicle product defines its own segment. Further, the nameplate enjoys tremendous brand recognition thanks in part to its lofty history, which can be traced all the way back to 1941 when the first government-issued models rolled out for the war effort.

The current Wrangler remains a fitting tribute to the original, although it certainly has evolved enough to bring with it some modern touches. The jouncy ride remains, but at least the current model is better behaved on-road than before. As for its off-road antics, this is the stuff of legends. Happily, the story continues with no interruption.

For 2018, it was a tale of two Wranglers. That’s because Jeep produced both the previous- (JK) and current- (JL) generation models concurrently. Jeep intended to fill orders for the JK version as it ramped up production of the JL. Further, Jeep initially distanced itself from the Wrangler Unlimited name, a term used to describe the four-door version and its near two-foot stretch between the axles. That decision may hold true internally, but the four-door is still referenced as the Wrangler Unlimited nearly everywhere else. We’ll do likewise here.

2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Overview

Jeep offers the 2019 Wrangler Unlimited in four standard trims: Sport ($31,545); Sport S ($34,745); Sahara ( $38,395); and Rubicon ($41,545). Add $1,445 for the designation charge. [A special edition Moab model ($51,300) is also available, adding a dual power-dome vented hood, front and rear black tow hooks, Jeep Performance Parts rock rails and the Selec-Trac Full-Time 4×4 System].

Three of the four trims correspond to the two-door Wrangler. Only the Sahara is exclusive to the Wrangler Unlimited. All models are four-wheel drive and have a standard V6 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission. An eight-speed automatic is available, as is a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

New this year is an updated Advanced Safety Group package, which now includes adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning. It isn’t available on the base model, but it is an option on the other three trims.

A Matter of Design

We like that Jeep exercised much restraint when designing the all-new Wrangler. They could have come up with a modern interpretation of the classic, but they did not. Instead, the designers were tasked with keeping the best of Jeep, while adding a few new touches.

The “best of” features include several removable parts — windshield, doors, and roof. The big wheel flares are present as is the side-hinged rear door with spare tire mount. Among the important changes include LED lights on the front of the front wheel fenders and an update of the iconic seven vertical slat grille. The “new” look has the headlights encroaching on each of the outer slats. But it really isn’t something truly new — earlier CJ models sported the same design.

2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Inside, the dashboard is lower and the controls sit up higher. These changes make it easier to see everything, while maintaining its rustic look. The center console is dominated by a color display, which is as large as 8.4 inches in some models. The remaining controls are found in the console and include the window switches.

Jeep dresses the seats in one of three materials: cloth, washable cloth or leather. The middle selection is the choice of mudders everywhere — when you can bring a hose inside and wash out the interior, then you know its a good day [all models have removable carpeting with drain plugs]. Just be careful not to allow the backwash to nail your electronics.

The main difference between the two- and four-door Wrangler versions is seating. The two-door sits two in comfort up front and another two in the rear in a pinch. The rear compartment is otherwise more useful for storage than for anything else. In the Wrangler Unlimited, Jeep supplies the extra doors and desirable space to make this a true four-seater [five in a pinch].

2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

On and Off Road

But enough with the looks. Where the Wrangler truly shines is behind the wheel — in particular, when operating off-road. On pavement, the ride is harsh at times, thanks to its ladder frame and solid axles. Steering also trails the competition, but as for acceleration, the V6 does not disappoint.

Your main dilemma comes in the choice of engines as both appear nearly even in the performance department. That said, the turbo offers more low-end grunt and may be the engine of choice for anyone who takes their off-roading seriously. It doesn’t offer the manual transmission, but the eight-speed automatic is no slouch here.

Ground clearance ranges from 9.7 inches on the Sport models to even 10 inches on the Sahara, topping out at 10.8 inches on the Rubicon. The Rubicon also has the best approach, breakover, and departure angles of all models with the two-door besting the four-door in the first two categories. It also comes with big 33-inch tires, lockable front and rear differentials, and a disconnectable front stabilizer bar.

As for the supplied Wrangler Unlimited Sahara edition, it finds its own place in the model universe. True, if you’re going off-road alone, you’ll want to know your terrain before tackling same. My area has seen an unusual amount of precipitation this past year with some muddy areas turned into ponds and lakes overflowing their banks to consume a forest. I eyed a few spots I wouldn’t have hesitated tackling before, choosing to avoid them in their present state.

Happily, there were enough places to splash through, sail over, climb and descend without wondering if “stuck” would become part of my experience. Most of the time, operating in 4H was sufficient, but whenever grip became an issue, shifting to 4L ensured forward progress. It also ensured that the frequent smile on my face didn’t turn to a frown or a look of consternation. There are few vehicles that imbue the confidence of a Wrangler. Heck, even most other Jeep models should avoid anything approaching climbing rock outcrops.

2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Safety & Technology

Jeep has certainly kept pace with the industry in terms of technology offerings. It doesn’t do a bad job with safety tech either.

All models come with an 8-speaker audio system, a USB port, and a color display. The displays range in size from a standard 5 inches to 7 or 8.4 inches. Options include satellite radio, additional USB ports, and a 9-speaker Alpine audio system. Bluetooth voice command is available, but only as a package upgrade with the Sahara and Rubicon editions. Both top trims also have a 115-volt power outlet.

If there is a weak area in the Jeep universe, then that would have to do with its safety tech. On the one hand, you won’t find such features as lane departure warning or lane keep assist, but blind-spot monitoring and rear park assist are included in an available Jeep Active Safety Group package ($995). Building on this package is an available Jeep Advanced Safety Group package ($795) with adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning with emergency braking. Again, these packages are not available with the base model.

2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Auto Trends Recommends

What flavor is your ideal Wrangler Unlimited? We think starting with the Sport S trim is the way to go as it opens a path to the driver safety tech that isn’t available elsewhere. Opting for the available turbocharged four-cylinder engine ($1,000) may prove preferable for anyone serious about off-roading.

The available Selec-Trac III Full-Time Four-Wheel-Drive System ($595) supplies automatic four-wheel-drive, which acts more like an all-wheel-drive system. You get this system with the Sahara trim.

The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited does everything we expect and does so while remaining faithful to its roots. There’s nothing else quite like it, which is why it remains the popular vehicle it is.

2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited


2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Specifications

Jeep 2019 Wrangler Unlimited
Segment Midsize Sport Utility Vehicle
Base Sticker Price $31,445 (plus $1,445 destination fee)
Price as tested $48,000 (Sahara)
Standard Engine 3.6-liter, V6
Horsepower 285 @ 6,400 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 260 @ 4,800 RPMs
Transmission Six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic
Optional Engine 2.0-liter; turbocharged inline-four
Horsepower 270 @ 5,250 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 295 @ 3,000 RPMs
Transmission Eight-speed automatic
Seating 2+3
Curb Weight (pounds) 4,200 to 4,455
Wheelbase (inches) 118.4
Length (inches) 188.4
Width (inches) 73.8
Height (inches) 73.6
Head room (f,r — inches) 40.7, 40.2
Leg room (f,r — inches) 41.2, 38.3
Shoulder room (f,r — inches) 55.7, 55.7
Hip room (f,r — inches) 53.9, 56.7
Storage (cubic feet) 31.7, 72.4
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) 3,500 pounds
Payload (pounds) 880 to 1,000
Fuel regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 18.5
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 17 or 18/23 (V6); 22/24 (2.0L turbo)
Manufacturing Plant Toledo, Ohio

2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited


See Also — Highlights of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 6-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION, 8-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, four-wheel drive, Jeep, JEEP WRANGLER, Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, off-road, SUV, turbo, V6

The Luxurious and Capable
2019 Infiniti QX80

November 1, 2018 by admin 2 Comments

Infiniti’s largest model combines power with luxury.

The QX80 is the largest of four Infiniti utility vehicles.
The QX80 is the largest of four Infiniti utility vehicles.

Large, luxury sport utility vehicles are the ultimate expression of a brand’s strength and visibility, as these models utilize much sheetmetal and girth to convey a powerful image. The QX80 offers a clear demonstration of Infiniti prowess, while also surrounding passengers with comfort and opulence.

The 2019 Infiniti QX80 is a full-size luxury SUV with room for seven or eight. This model comes with a V8 engine matched with an automatic transmission. Customers have a choice of rear- or four-wheel drive. This model is available in Luxe and Limited trims.

New for 2019 is a Limited trim with standard four-wheel drive and special colors. Now standard this year are forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and emergency braking.

Exterior Features: Infiniti QX80

Copious amounts of sheetmetal is not the lone marker of a big SUV. It is what the manufacturer does with that canvas to make it stand out.

The 2019 QX80 features a bold front fascia marked by an oversized mesh grille. A wide lower grille opening, sleek headlamps with LED accent lighting, and a massive hood complete this SUV’s frontal expression.

2019 Infiniti QX80

Along the sides, the QX80’s size becomes more apparent with its long roofline and high beltline. Defining characteristics include pronounced wheel wells, vent ports, and an ample greenhouse. From the rear, this SUV has narrow wraparound tail lamps with LED accent lighting. Infiniti connects the lights with metallic trim. Metal trim also graces the top of the bumper at the liftgate.

Standard features include automatic headlights with high beam assist, LED fog lights, 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, power heated and folding side mirrors, running boards, a roof rack, a power moonroof, and a power rear liftgate. The Limited edition adds such features as under running board welcome lighting, stainless steel touches, and an adaptive front lighting system.

Interior Features: Infiniti QX80

How do you like your cabin? That’s a question Infiniti’s designers sought to answer by dressing this SUV in lavish leather with very comfortable seats up front and near equally comfortable captain’s chairs in the second row. Even the third-row bench seat is plush and supportive.

Optionally, Infiniti supplies 8-passenger seating by replacing the middle-row seats with a bench seat. But that makes for a less comfortable seating area and also restricts third-row legroom. If there is a downside to this Infiniti’s cabin, it would be the standard cargo space. Measuring just 16.6 cubic feet, you’ll need to stack most items or fold part or all of the rear seat as needed.

2019 Infiniti QX80

Infiniti utilizes a fairly traditional cabin layout with a layered dashboard, analog instrument panel dials, and an upright center stack. That stack has its share of switches and dials for controlling climate, audio and navigation functions. The quilted center console cover is one of several refined points in the cabin.

Standard equipment includes full power accessories, power front seats with lumbar support, heated front seats, three-zone climate control, and a power third-row seat. Upgrades include illuminated kick plates, cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, and semi-aniline leather.

Safety and Technology Highlights

Luxury vehicle shoppers expect a long list of technologies and the 2019 QX80 does not disappoint. Beyond the power tilt-and-telescopic steering column, this model has a 13-speaker Bose audio system, Bluetooth, four USB ports, auxiliary audio input, and navigation. My top-trim Limited model came with a 15-speaker Bose audio system and a Theater Package with a pair of 8-inch color monitors, wireless headphones, input jacks, and a 120-volt outlet.

2019 Infiniti QX80

Beyond the standard rearview camera, forward collision warning, and forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection, Infiniti offers other features. These include intelligent (adaptive) cruise control, distance control assist, blind spot warning, lane departure warning, lane departure prevention, and backup collision intervention.

Crash test scores are either incomplete or unavailable. That said, the Infiniti QX80’s large size works to its benefit. And when equipped with a full suite of driver-assist features, it raises the safety quotient accordingly.

On the Road With the 2019 Infiniti QX80

Start the ignition and the Infiniti Q80 comes to life in a big way. In a significant, loud way that is.

The QX80’s V8 engine makes its presence known, emitting a noisy and sustained whoosh once it starts. That cacophony may seem counterintuitive to how a luxury model should sound, but make no mistake about it: this Infiniti has the performance to sustain its size.

2019 Infiniti QX80Once you shift into gear and move forward, the engine sound eases to a sustained hum. At work is 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, an ideal amount of performance for this big SUV. Infiniti matches this engine with a 7-speed automatic transmission that fires off gears quickly and without drama.

My test Limited model with standard all-wheel drive, supplied a very comfortable and smooth ride. Under hard acceleration, the V8 responded with copious amounts of power and the attendant whoosh, moving this near three-ton utility vehicle with ease.

Steering is light to the touch and this Infiniti supplies ease of handling. It feels much lighter on its “feet” than its size would suggest, something that should ease the minds of shoppers who might think this SUV would behave otherwise.

If you want to take this SUV off-road, you can. You have the usual 4-Hi and 4-Lo settings and various modes to play with, including snow. It is doubtful you’ll do much off-roading with it anyway, but rest assured that with its standard kickplates, you can.

2019 Infiniti QX80

Fuel economy is not one of the QX80’s strengths as this model makes 13 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway (1 mpg less than the two-wheel-drive model). But that’s roughly in line with competing models.

If you tow, the QX80’s 8,500-pound trailering capacity shouldn’t be overlooked. It edges the Cadillac Escalade with 8,100 to 8,300 pounds available and finishes just ahead of the Lincoln Navigator’s maximum 8,300-pound capacity. It also comes with an automatic leveling rear suspension and a tow/haul mode.

Parting Thoughts: Infiniti QX80

The QX80 does everything it needs to do to keep Infiniti shoppers in the brand fold. It is one of four utility vehicles offered by Infiniti, although if you need room for seven, the QX60 crossover should also be explored. The QX60 offers larger standard cargo space too, but then it can’t approach the QX80’s lofty towing capacity.

As for model choices, the standard Luxe model is a very good place to start. It costs $65,100 ($68,200 with all-wheel drive). The Limited with standard four-wheel drive ($89,800) adds every conceivable option and supplies exterior and interior embellishments not found with the base model.

2019 Infiniti QX80

 

2019 Infiniti QX80 Specifications


  • Sticker price from $66,395 (including $1,295 destination)
  • Price as tested: $91,500
  • Seats 7 or 8 passengers
  • 5.6-liter 32-valve V-8 gasoline engine
  • 400 horsepower @ 5,800 RPM
  • 413 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,000 RPM
  • 3.86 inches bore by 3.62 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 10.8-to-1
  • 7-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 121.1 inches
  • Length: 210.2 inches
  • Width: 79.9 inches
  • Height: 75.8 inches
  • Passenger volume: 167.9
  • Storage volume: 16.6 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: 8,500 pounds
  • EPA: 14/20 mpg city/highway (2WD) 13/19 (4WD)
  • Premium grade gasoline recommended
  • Fuel tank: 26 gallons
  • Curb weight: 5,679 pounds (2WD); 5,926 (4WD)
  • IIHS safety rating: Not rated
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 48 months/60,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 72 months/70,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 84 months/unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Yukuhashi, Japan

2019 Infiniti QX80


See Also — Crossing Over With the Infiniti QX30


2018 Infiniti QX80 photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2019 cars, 7-SPEED TRANSMISSION, four-wheel drive, INFINITI QX80, SUV, V8 engine

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