With a suite of hardware upgrades that reads like an off-road enthusiast’s Christmas wish list, the Wrangler Willys Wheeler is a low-cost, high-capability alternative to the pricier Wrangler Rubicon. In four-door ‘Unlimited’ guise, the Willys Wheeler’s $4,100 lower asking price represents a savings for some, and an invitation to an accessory-catalog shopping-spree for others.
Built on the Wrangler’s Sport trim grade, the Willys gives shoppers access to a high-capability Wrangler variant, without going full Rubicon on pricing and feature content. Included are Rubicon-spec shocks, a Dana 44 locking rear axle, Mud Terrain tires, rock rails and more. With 285 standard horsepower, a six-speed manual, four usable seats and numerous removable-roof options, this mud-tosser stands up well as a sporty, family-ready convertible, too.
Wrangler’s recently updated cabin boasts a simple, slightly upscale look and perches drivers up high for a commanding driving position and good forward visibility. The cargo hold is partly occupied by roof-storage implements, though its tall, square shape is well suited to carrying gear packed in boxes and bins. Adult rear-seat passengers will be faced, almost literally, with overhead roll-bar provisions – although smaller occupants should have little issue.
Confidence is the stand-out attribute in challenging driving conditions.
The Mud Terrain tires bite hard into various mucks and turfs, and jagged treads, which extend down the sidewalls, enable easy escaping of mud-ruts. Although they wouldn’t appear out of place on a piece of agricultural equipment, these tires are quieter than they look. Should grip run low, the locking rear differential engages automatically, binding the rear wheels together and maintaining the ability to fling and dig free of slop.
Need more traction? Four-wheel drive is engaged via a hearty yank of the console-mounted lever. Low range is another tug away, providing more grip and amplified climbing power that make steep, rocky inclines feel like a piece of cake. Activate Hill Descent Control to electronically inch the Willys Wheeler downward at less-than-walking speeds, on a rock-by-rock basis if needed, and there’s huge confidence – especially for drivers uncomfortable with heights.
Add in the generous ground clearance, rock rails and the beefy ladder-frame structure to which it’s all bolted, and there’s peace of mind in abundance over the sort of terrain that would see a Honda CR-V or Ford Escape playing a game of oil-pan roulette.
Further confidence is imparted by the Willys Wheeler’s off-road ride quality: Even on the craggiest surfaces, there’s no sense of flimsiness. Willys feels solid and durable, never delicate, and the suspension never sounds like it’s being smashed up or harmed.
Standard Wrangler complaints apply: Highway handling is somewhat vague, the ride can become hilariously jouncy on uneven roads, wind noise levels are extremely generous and, although the V-6 engine performs well when called upon, fuel use is considerably heavier than a less-extreme crossover model.
Remember: this is an off-roader designed to handle its owner’s 9 to 5, and not vice versa.
As such, shoppers prioritizing toughness, capability, value and open-topped family fun over exceptional fuel efficiency.
You’ll like this vehicle if ... You’re willing to accept a few compromises in exchange for a sporty, fun-in-the-sun family cruiser that’s ready for any adventure, 365 days a year.
TECH SPECS
Base price: $34,495; as tested: $43,685
Engine: 3.6-litre V-6
Transmission/Drive: Six-speed manual or five-speed automatic with manual mode
Fuel Economy (litres/100 km): 14.8 city, 11.7 highway; regular fuel
Alternatives: None
RATINGS
Looks: Boxy, and distinctive, Wrangler Willy’s specific visual upgrades include special wheels and badging, although it’s still instantly recognizable as a Wrangler from a mere glance.
Interior: Some upscale materials and a modernized design gussy up its utilitarian cabin, although some drivers will wish for more at-hand storage, and easier entry and exit.
Performance: The standard V-6 performs well when called upon, is effortless in light-throttle, low-speed situations and boasts a flexible and wide torque curve, which helps with all-around responsiveness, and in various off-road conditions.
Technology: Its touch-screen central command interface is from the last decade, and none of the market’s latest high-tech safety and communication systems are available.
Cargo: Although its cargo hold is partly occupied by roof storage implements, the box-like shape, deep storage area and folding rear seats enable plenty of space for most activities.
THE VERDICT
8.0
With standard four-wheel drive, 285 horsepower, convertible top provisions and a six-speed manual, Wrangler Willys is a compelling choice for the budget-minded shopper looking for a potent off-roader and family-friendly convertible in one.
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