THE NEW JEEP WRANGLER

Other than once every blue moon, Jeep doesn’t make changes to its Wrangler line, its most iconic of vehicles. So when Jeep says its new 2011 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited has undergone some changes, it’s a bit of news around here. Chrysler Group LLC released images today of the new 2011 Jeep® Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited, and the most evident change is its all-new interior—a much more civilized one that the Wrangler has ever had. The second most noticeable change—an all-new body-color hard top for the popular Sahara model.

The new interior includes a redesigned instrument panel and storage areas with improved (for the Wrangler) ergonomics and upgraded materials. A new lockable console and upgraded door armrest areas now have comfortable touch points, while a redesigned center stack is said to be easier to operate. Heated, power mirrors are now available, and Jeep says drivers and passengers will enjoy enhanced visibility courtesy of larger rear windows. Some collateral impact from the all new interior: Steering-wheel controls allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, hands-free phone and other vehicle functions while keeping hands on the wheel. A new USB device interface connects to storage devices (thumb drives and most MP3 players) for use with the vehicle’s Media Center, which now includes streaming Bluetooth audio. Twelve-volt accessory outlets have been added and a new 110-volt outlet is available to provide power similar to AC outlets in the home.

Jeep engineers also increased acoustical treatment in the 2011 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited, resulting in significantly reduced interior noise. Adding absolutely nothing to the interior (but a cool touch) is a “Jeep, Since 1941” inlay mounted onto the new passenger grab handle with hex nuts. To provide a more premium appearance, the 2011 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited Sahara models boast an all-new, premium, body-color hard top. Several new Jeep Wrangler colors are also available for 2011, including Detonator Yellow, Deep Cherry Red, Sahara Tan, Cosmos Blue and Bright White. Production of the new 2011 Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited began last week at the Toledo Assembly Complex in Toledo, Ohio. - Roy Nakano