Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 2.0T Sahara (2025) Review
In a bold move, Jeep has ditched the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 for the local market and elected to go with the 2.0-litre turbocharged unit instead. Claimed to be better on fuel and with lower emissions, will this new engine manage to uphold the Jeep heritage?
In this article:
The Jeep Wrangler is one of those iconic models that needs little introduction. First brought into production in 1986 as a spiritual continuation of the CJ (Civilian Jeep), the recipe has remained largely unchanged, and the Wrangler has become synonymous with the word 'Jeep'. The LJ variant, launched in 2018, continued with a tried-and-tested format: solid axles, a 2-speed transfer case, and removable panels that allowed you to experience the outdoors in the way that Jeep intended.
Related: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 2.0T Rubicon (2025) Review
More recently, this model came under scrutiny and with an ever-mounting focus on emissions and efficiency, the decision was made to downscale the engine's displacement. Naturally, Jeep (now owned by Stellantis) didn't want to compromise on the power and performance of the Wrangler in this process, and has managed to do just that, all thanks to modern technology.
Styling
You won't spot any immediate changes in this new, updated Wrangler. The styling continues the retro theme carried across the range since 1986, echoing the styling of the original Willys Jeep that rose to fame in the Second World War. The round headlights are now LED units with LED daytime running light elements and are complemented by the LED fog lamps. Sahara versions are considerably more road-biased, wear 18-inch alloy wheels, and are shod in 255/70R18 tyres. Brightwork around the headlights and in the grille separates the iconic 7-slat grille.
The Sahara has removable hard tops, allowing you to strip them back and enjoy the summer sky in a way few vehicles allow. If you haven't experienced this, I highly recommend trying it out - don't forget the sunblock.
Around back, the tailgate-mounted spare wheel dominates the rear end, which features a split tailgate; the upper window section opens upwards, and the lower half swings outwards. LED taillights flank this tailgate. Tow hooks are easily accessible in the front and the rear of the Wrangler.
New vs Used: Jeep Wrangler JL vs JK. What are the key differences?
Space & Interior
While headroom is generous, and even more so with the aforementioned roof removed, the cabin of the Wrangler is a tighter fit around the shoulders than most. The most frustrating part of the Wrangler in right-hand drive configuration is the lack of space in the driver's side footwell. The transmission tunnel extends excessively into it (presumably due to the transfer case), giving you nowhere to rest or place your left foot. This makes longer drives a little less comfortable than one would like. The boot is a usable 548 litres and can grow to 1059 litres when you fold down the rear seats.
The interior retains much of the traditional Jeep style, with a horizontal design theme that gives the impression of rugged robustness, replete with grab handles that come in handy when the going gets a little rough. Sahara variants get leather and soft-touch trimmings, updated and enhanced over the versions predating this facelift.
Which is the best variant of the Jeep Wrangler?
Comfort & Convenience
The most significant change to the interior is the 12.3-inch UConnect touchscreen infotainment system, which features wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It also has a native TomTom GPS system, ideal for outdoor adventures where cellular signal is a luxury. This unit also now allows for two simultaneous Bluetooth connections and has 4G WiFi hot-spotting for ease of use. You will find 7 USB ports of both the A and C variety scattered across the cabin and 12V sockets for accessories.
The ride is different from what one may be expecting at first, especially if you're graduating from an SUV to a solid-axle 4x4. The steering is deliberately vague, and the Jeep has a tendency to wander on the road, following ruts and undulations. This is all natural for a solid-axle configuration, and soon, one learns that this is nothing to be concerned about.
Everything you need to know about the Jeep Wrangler
Performance
Of course, the biggest news is the engine's downsizing in the new Wrangler. The 3.6-litre V6 has been dropped in favour of a more fuel-efficient and emissions-friendly turbocharged 2.0-litre. While this new unit is a little down on power, it produces more torque. Some owners may miss the off-idle torque delivery of the big capacity engine, but the engineers have done well to make this new unit a responsive one that pulls strong from low down and holds its power throughout the rev range. This new 2.0 produces 200kW and 400Nm torque, giving the Sahara a 0-100 km/h time of 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 180 km/h.
Power is sent to the wheels through an 8-speed automatic gearbox, with drivers able to select a 2-High, 4-High, 4-Auto, and 4-Low Range drive, depending on the terrain they are traversing.
Which Jeep Wrangler trim depreciates the fastest?
Fuel Economy
One can't help but think of the bumper sticker that says, "If it were meant to be fast, it wouldn't be shaped like a brick." The same applies to fuel consumption; the Wrangler is not a sleek, aerodynamic shape, stunting its consumption figures. Stallantis claims that this new unit can return 11.1 L/100km, but this will require concentration and an open road. Expect to see real-world figures of 13.5 L/100 km in daily-driven conditions.
Safety
The Wrangler gets four airbags and the usual array of ABS with EBD, a traction control system, and a stability control system. The Sahara has a front and rear tyre pressure monitor and park distance control but only a reverse camera. Despite this, Stellantis brags about the 85 safety systems.
Driver assistance aids include adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, with blind spot monitoring. Strangely enough, the Wrangler only has upper ISOFIX child seat tethers.
Price
Jeep South Africa only offers two models, having dropped the Sport from its lineup. This Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 2.0T Sahara retails for R1 249 900, and the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 2.0T Rubicon goes for R1 299 900. Both come with a 5-year/100 000 km warranty and a 5-year/100 000 km service plan as standard.
What is covered under the Jeep Wrangler manufacturer car warranty?
Competitors
The Jeep is a bit of a unique creation, and if you're in the market for such a vehicle, the softer side will see the Tank 300 and Land Cruiser Prado come into play, while the Land Cruiser 70 Series is a little more rough and tumble. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is not off the table, if you're able to stretch that budget.
Verdict
Many will bemoan the loss of the Pentastar V6 in our market, but the 2.0 does a great job of filling the gap while retaining most of the performance and feel of the traditional Wrangler. The fuel savings are not amazing, but this is a concession one must make when choosing a vehicle of this nature. The turbocharged engine suffers less at altitude than the NA V6, making it a better choice for those at the Reef.
