Comparing the 2020 Jeep Wrangler Against the 2019 Model

The Jeep Wrangler has been the flagship model of the Jeep family lineup for quite some time now, existing as a top-of-the-line SUV that can be tailored into a remarkable off-road vehicle. As a result, the Jeep Wrangler has continued to be a popular hit here at Zimmer CDJR year after year. There are many Jeep Wranglers for sale out there, and if you’re searching “Jeep dealer near me” to find the model that fits your needs best, we’re happy to help. The 2019 model of the Jeep Wrangler has been a hit for some time now, and as it makes its transition into our pre-owned selection, we’d like to peel back the veil and see what big changes happened between last year’s model and this year’s.

The Legacy of the Jeep Wrangler

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, we figured it’d be a good idea to focus on what started the Jeep Wrangler line. The Jeep Wrangler first showed up on the scene way back in 1986 as a direct replacement of the famous Jeep CJ series. Like the Jeep CJ series, the Jeep Wrangler was developed to harken back stylistically and performance-wise to the original Jeep Willy models of the 1940s. These initial military vehicles were versatile power-houses in their own right, traversing over the varied terrain of the Pacific and European land. The Jeep Wrangler still inspires much of that same durability and versatility, all while offering an incredibly modern driving experience.

There are no signs that the Jeep Wrangler will be replaced by any other model any time soon, especially with recent releases like the Jeep Gladiator mimicking the style and performance of its older brother. That said, we can expect the Jeep Wrangler to get more and more street-friendly as Jeep continues to push for a more well-rounded Jeep Wrangler model. As a result of this push, the 2020 Jeep Wrangler model is quite different from its 2019 predecessor, and depending on what you’re looking for, it may be the superior purchase.

The 2019 Jeep Wrangler

The 2019 Jeep Wrangler is much like the models that came before it. Offered in the Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon trims, the 2019 Jeep Wrangler is a relatively diverse SUV, sporting additional special editions as well. No matter what trim you buy, though, the standard equipment is a pretty powerful 3.6-liter V6 engine that’s partnered with a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission. The resulting performance specs round out at 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

As always, the 2019 Jeep Wrangler comes standard with a 4×4 drivetrain, making every trim capable when put in to face off-road trail challenges. If you decide against the V6, you can invest in the more nimble 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder option with eTorque. This alternative powertrain is responsible for 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This secondary powertrain can also be fitted with an 8-speed automatic transmission that is rather nifty for those who want to avoid a manual transmission. The 2.0-liter engine is the superior choice for anyone looking for an off-road adventure. And if you want a truly unmitigated outdoor experience, you may want to consider the Rubicon trim.

Much like the Rubicon configuration in previous models, the 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon gets a considerable amount of off-road gear. Features like a set of 33-inch BF Goodrich All-terrain tires, Dana 44 axles, locking differentials, and sway bars all come together to make for a driving experience that isn’t just thrilling, but smooth when put before rigorous terrain.

The 2019 Jeep Wrangler is awfully similar to older models as well, in that you can purchase either a two-door or four-door model. What was a dramatic change from previous models of the Jeep Wrangler is the fact that you could equip the 2019 Jeep Wrangler with a sweeping range of active safety equipment including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warnings, and blind-spot monitors. However, it is worth noting that many of these features come at an extra cost, and aren’t considered standard fair as they might be on other competitor vehicles.

2020 Jeep Wrangler

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler is a remarkable departure from the 2019 model, sporting more than just two different engine options. The base model still gets that reliable 3.6-liter V6, and you’ll still find a 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic transmission, and four-wheel drive is standard. The optional 2.0-liter turbo-4 is still kicking around too, and can only be purchased with the 8-speed automatic transmission. A new addition to the Jeep powertrain lineup is a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine that dishes out its own level power. This EcoDiesel variant saves on gas expenses, but it also delivers a remarkable 442 lb-ft of torque, making it the most torque-heavy Wrangler powertrain yet.

Beyond powertrain changes, the off-road models of the 2020 Jeep Wrangler remain relatively the same as the 2019 models. In the Rubicon trim, you’ll still get to enjoy large 33-inch off-road tires, locking differentials, disconnecting sway bars, and a more robust suspension system.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler does change in other ways, though, adding in the option to upgrade the safety feature package in every trim model. Features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitors can all be taken advantage of even if you purchase entry-level models like the Sport. Interior amenities in the 2020 Jeep Wrangler still start small, though you will be able to enjoy a keyless ignition and a slew of USB charging ports as standard. Step things up to higher trims, and you’ll find additional bells and whistles such as an infotainment system powered by Apple CarPlay and Android Auto a 115-volt power outlet, and lush cloth seating. And in typical Jeep fashion, the Jeep Wrangler, both in 2020 and 2019, can be purchased in a wide variety of special editions, giving this SUV more flair and features to enjoy.

Find Your Jeep Wrangler from Zimmer CDJR

The Jeep Wrangler is a popular vehicle in our showroom, in part for its incredible versatility off-pavement, but its charm and comfort. While spartan in some ways, the Jeep Wrangler has always been a vehicle that connects the driver with the road by putting performance first and foremost. Both the 2019 and 2020 models exemplify this effort, combining off-road capability and modern automotive technology to make for a unique driving experience that is hard to come by in competitor vehicles.

If you’re interested in driving home in a new or used Jeep Wrangler for sale, our team at Zimmer CDJR here in Florence, KY, is here to help. Not only will we make an effort to showcase every aspect of these famous SUVs, but we’ll ensure that you feel as little stress as possible throughout the car buying process. Our number one goal is to satisfy your automotive needs, regardless of what they might be. From auto financing to maintenance and parts, we stand to be your one-stop-shop for everything you or your vehicle might need.