Jeep Wrangler Rubicon — Commando Green

Arguably two of the best cars to have in Jakarta for the rainy season — the new iconic Jeep Wrangler and the Dodge Journey — have more tricks up their sleeves than their predecessors.

Founded in 1941, the Jeep is one of the most iconic motor vehicles in the world. First developed as a mode of transport for the US army during World War II, this particular automobile has undergone some changes but has still kept some of its iconic characteristics, — its tough, boxy look and of course the famous seven-slot front grilles.

Jeep is popular among those who enjoy off-road adventures and other outdoor activities, but in the past decade, more and more Wranglers have been seen on the roads. And Jakarta is no exception — Jeep Wranglers have been sighted around town and there is good reason as to why.

The vehicle utilizes the 3.6 Pentastar V6 engine that delivers 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, certainly a powerful machine, perfect for off-road adventures.

Interior-wise, the trim leather seats are very comfortable and are wider than the seats of previous models.

“We don’t want to just focus on the Jeep Wrangler as a 4x4 SUV [sports utility vehicle] car for the outdoor lifestyle. We don’t want people to just use it during weekends. We also want to encourage users to use it as a daily car,” said Rieva Muchsin, chief marketing officer of Chrysler Indonesia.

Interior of Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
“In these past few months, I’ve been hearing reports of cars getting submerged because of the floods, while those who use Jeep Wranglers are still going about their business. So I think that this car is very suitable for Jakarta. We want users to feel as comfortable as possible, especially in Jakarta’s horrible traffic.”

There are also things such as LED lights installed in the Jeep Wrangler 2013.

For example, LED lights are installed in leg space, in illuminated cup holders and also as reading lights, making things more convenient for users.

The premium tire pressure monitoring system has also been improved to be more accurate and give the exact tire pressure information.

“The new models come with five new colors; billet metallic; true blue pearl, which looks like black from afar but
blue when seen up close; red lobster; dune, which has replaced the yellow color; and finally commando green, which
I think will be a popular trend this year,” said Rieva.

The new Wrangler also promises a more convenient soft-top installation process that will make it easier for users to install or remove the roof of the car.

The exterior of the car is very familiar to the 2012 edition; it still has that boxy and tough look that gives Jeep so much of its personality as a brand. There aren’t many changes except for the new design of the 17-inch rims for the sport models and the new colors.

The new Jeep Wrangler is also all about safety.

An Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS) is implemented in the new model. In the case of an accident, the car automatically closes the fuel tank, opens the doors and turns on the hazard lights and the interior lights.

“This feature will prevent situations where people get stuck inside the car during an accident and prevent further injuries,” Rieva said.

If the Jeep is a tough guy that loves adventures, then the new Dodge Journey is a family guy who can also be quite tough.

The bigger car, which can accommodate up to seven passengers, is a cross between a family car and a SUV and it is perfect for families and long road trips.

Dodge Journey
The new Dodge Journey comes in three different models: the SXT, the SXT Luxury and the SXT Platinum. The SXT Platinum has two onboard monitors and a GPS navigation system included.

There’s not much difference in the exterior with the 2012 edition. The 2013 edition uses chrome door handles and roof rails to give it a more slick and dynamic look. While performance wise, the new Dodge Journey is a front-wheel drive that uses a 2.4L engine with 174 horsepower.

“The new Dodge Journey has a power assist that makes better handling and more precise turning,” explained Rieva.

However, the biggest improvement is the onboard system that provides an overall better driving experience.

From the interface, users can check the conditions of the car: temperature, tire pressure, oil pressure and many other things.

Moreover, CD, MP3, radio and DVD players are also available, which is perfect for the new premium sound speakers onboard. The best thing about this is that you can control it via voice commands, which makes driving this car more comfortable and also safer.

Dodge Journey’s 7-seater interior
The Jeep Wrangler 2013 and the new Dodge Journey prove that the little things can make as much of an impact as the big things.

The new Dodge Journey is perfect for driving alone or with the family. It’s more pleasant to drive and it provides a lot of comfort for its driver and passengers.

While the Wrangler is perfect for Jakarta’s rainy weather and for surviving in its horrible traffic, it’s comfortable, slick and tough, but not over the top or expensive.

A perfect balance of old school and new school, with new rim designs, better safety systems, more comfortable seating and several new color choices, expect to see more SUVs on the streets of Jakarta.

Jeep
Engine: 3.6L Pentastar V 6 DOHC and variable valve timing
Unleaded fuel
Fuel economy: Gasoline 17 MPG city, 21 MPG highway, 18 MPG combined and 335 mi. range
Multi-point fuel injection
18.6 gallon fuel tank
Power (SAE): 285 hp @ 6,400 rpm;
260 ft lb of torque @ 4,800 rpm

Dodge Journey
• Engine: 2.4L in-line 4 DOHC and variable valve timing
• Unleaded fuel
• Fuel economy: Gasoline 19 MPG city, 26 MPG highway, 21 MPG combined and 431 mi. range
• Multi-point fuel injection
• 20.5 gallon fuel tank

The writer is an intern at The Jakarta Post.

  — Photos Courtesy of Chrysler Indonesia