The Jeep brand is synonymous with off-roading. In 2021 Jeep has not one but two heavy hitters on the off-roading front, the all-new Gladiator, and the classic Wrangler. Let’s look at the off-road features on the 2021 Gladiator and 2021 Wrangler.
Traction
Going off-road effectively is all about traction and getting that power to the ground. Both the 2021 Gladiator and 2021 Wrangler feature the Rock-Trac 4×4 system available with full-time as well as part-time four-wheel-drive, giving you outstanding control and more torque than any Wrangler before. Jeep offers a 4:1 gear ratio, providing an 84:1 crawl ratio, Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials front and rear, and an electronic front sway bar disconnect to help you tackle all off-road terrains, including rock crawling.
Then there’s the part-time Command-Trac 4×4 system available for the Wrangler that offers a 2.72:1 low gear ratio range for crawling rocks and neutral for flat towing. Also available on the Wrangler is the Selec-Trac 4×4 system that automatically drops to two-wheel drive on clear roads or four-wheel drive when conditions get more difficult. Finally, on the Gladiator, the rear axle can be locked into 4HI mode so you can get more speed in the sand dunes.
Handling Obstacles
True off-roading has many obstacles, water being among them, and whether you choose the Wrangler or Gladiator, they can handle fording. Both feature a high air intake, special water sealing, and moisture-resistant body openings so that going through water isn’t a problem. Tight corners, rocks, and logs aren’t a problem because each Jeep features precision steering systems and optimized wheelbases to get you around and through tight spots.
When going over uneven terrain, your vehicle needs to be able to articulate enough to keep the wheels on the ground. On these Jeeps, the high levels of axle articulation and quality suspension keeps the wheels planted. Maybe you don’t want to go around those rocks and logs? Instead, you want to go over them. The ample ground clearance with lifts and large tires on both vehicles will help you do just that with up to 11.1 inches of clearance.
If you go with the automatic transmission, both vehicles come standard with Selec-Speed control, which manages your speed in 4LO much like cruise control does on the highway. Torque and brake pressure automatically adjust to optimize performance while minimizing driver input.
Optimized for the Trail
Throttle, transmission shift points, and traction control can all be optimized to speed through the sand dunes or crawl at lower speeds with the simple press of the Off-Road+ button that comes as standard equipment. Even though these are both built to clear obstacles, sometimes that just isn’t possible. The Wrangler and Gladiator provide high-strength steel skid plates that cover key underbody components so it can take a hit and keep on going. Even though these are off-road beasts, you still want to protect the aesthetics, and rock rails help prevent damage from contact or debris.
To check out the off-road features for yourself on the 2021 Gladiator or Wrangler, stop down to Ourisman CDJR. A helpful member of our staff would be happy to show you around.
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