Jeep specializes in making versatile vehicles that are perfect for off-road adventures. Each model has a trail rated trim, and there are 4x4 options available on every trim. Here are the best Jeep models that you can take off-roading and the features that make these vehicles perfect for your next adventure. While all the models have 4x4 capabilities, there are three that stand out when it comes to off-roading. These models include the Wrangler Unlimited, the Wrangler, and the Grand Cherokee.
Wrangler Unlimited and Wrangler
The Wrangler Unlimited and
Wrangler models come with the option of two 4x4 systems. The first is a Command-Trac 4x4 System. The high range 4x4 system allows you to take your vehicle onto loose terrain and allows you to shift between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour. When you lock the vehicle into 4x4 mode, the torque is split 50/50 between the front and the back. Using Four-Low, you can maneuver challenging off-road and towing situations. The crawl ratio for this system is 2.72:1 in low mode.
The second 4x4 system on the Wrangler Unlimited is the Rock-Trac. The transfer case of the Rock-Trac features both high and low modes so you can handle any situation you encounter. This system allows you to shift between two-wheel and four-wheel drive at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour. The torque is split 50/50 in 4x4 high mode. The part-time mode is for slippery and loose surfaces like ice, dirt, gravel, or snow. The low mode is for tough off-roading. The Crawl ratio is 73.1:1 in low mode.
Grand Cherokee
The
Grand Cherokee has four available 4x4 systems. These systems include the Quadra-Drive II With Rear Electronic Limited-Slip Differential, Quadra Trac I 4x4, Quadra-Trac II 4x4, and the Quadra-Trac SRT 4x4. The Quadra-Drive II is a full-time 4x4 system, making it the most advanced 4x4 system because it can transfer up to 100 percent of available torque to a single rear tire if required. The Quadra Trac 1 operates in a high-range mode full-time, which delivers optimum traction.
The Quadra-Trac II functions in 4x4 until more traction is needed and then engages the clutch to transfer 100 percent torque to either axle. Finally, the Quadra-Trac SRT uses a mechanical wet clutch and electronic limited slip differential in the rear which allows 100 percent of the torque to be sent to one rear wheel.
Trail Rated
Jeep models that are perfect for off-road adventures are Trail Rated. That means that they have passed extensive testing in a variety of areas. These tests include traction, water fording, maneuverability, articulation, and ground clearance.
Between the Trail Rated Badges and the well designed 4x4 systems, your Jeep will allow you to drive through a variety of terrains, including mud, on-road, gravel, snow, rock, and sand. While the Wrangler Unlimited, Wrangler, and Grand Cherokee are at the top of the pack for off-roading vehicles in the Jeep lineup, you can choose any one of the models and have the ability to have a fun off-roading adventure. For more information about these Jeep models, visit
Tom O'Brien CDJR.
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