Wrangler Overland Power Top
Retro styles are trending these days, right? Whether in fashion, electronics, or even cars, it seems like everyone is jumping on the bandwagon. Renowned imported car brands are racing to unveil concept cars that modernize classic models, and some have even brought these designs to mass production.
However, Jeep doesn’t need to follow this trend! Drawing inspiration from the Jeep and Willys that emerged during World War II, Jeep maintains its iconic design, which has cultivated a loyal fan base. For off-road enthusiasts, Jeep is the only choice.
Although the Wrangler has already evolved into its sixth generation (JL), only true Jeep owners can discern the subtle changes. It’s reminiscent of Porsche in that regard...
However, upon closer inspection, you’ll notice that the tail lamp details have stylishly transitioned to LED, and the bumper design has taken on a sportier look. The spare tire cover exclusive to the Overland model is also sleek, featuring a cute auxiliary brake light on top.
If you have even a slight interest in Jeep, you probably think of the Sahara. However, with the full change to the JL, the urban-oriented Sahara model has disappeared from the domestic market, replaced by the Overland trim!
But there’s something a bit confusing.
Wrangler, Rubicon, Sahara, Overland... what’s the difference?
While models like the Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Renegade are easily distinguishable, many people find it hard to differentiate between the Wranglers. I was one of them too, haha.
To clarify, it’s straightforward.
Both Rubicon and Overland are Wranglers. The Rubicon trim optimizes the Wrangler for off-road driving, while the Overland trim is tailored for urban driving with adjusted suspension settings and slight exterior design differences.
Today, I’m sharing my experience with the Overland model. It may look similar to the Rubicon, but it features fenders and a spare tire cover painted in the same color as the body, larger wheels, and tires that provide a more comfortable ride compared to the Rubicon.
They also added a separate emblem to the fender for distinction.
It feels like wearing a patched-up T-shirt.
The photos come from Jino.com.
Comparing the two models makes it clearer. Both are power top models with electric soft tops, but the red model on the left is the Rubicon, while the white one on the right is the Overland. Which one looks better to you?
My preference leans towards the Overland... I don’t have a hobby of taking my car off-road, and I’m at an age where I appreciate a larger, more comfortable vehicle. That said, the Overland doesn’t fall short when it comes to handling unpaved trails.
The seats still require manual operation, but isn’t that part of the Jeep charm?
The touch-enabled 8.4-inch infotainment monitor supports features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making navigation and media playback a breeze.
The fuel efficiency averaged around 21 miles per gallon, which isn’t bad at all for a gasoline vehicle.
Even considering it runs on gasoline?
The 2.0-liter gasoline turbo engine has been downsized, but the punchy acceleration and responsiveness from the start make you forget about any nostalgia for the older V6 engine. Plus, achieving an average of 21-23 miles per gallon with this size is a win-win!
Personally, I found the new JL to be better in terms of acceleration and stability at high speeds compared to the previous V6 JK model.
Of course, due to Jeep’s design characteristics, which don’t prioritize aerodynamics, the wind noise hitting the windshield at high speeds can be quite loud, making it challenging to drive fast...
Somehow, the Overland fits perfectly with golf courses... while the Rubicon is suited for off-roading, the Overland seems to be more at home in golf courses or campsites.
The reason I mention golf courses is that I want to highlight the extensive long-distance driving I did while writing this review... I felt completely comfortable. While the Rubicon has improved ride comfort in its sixth generation, I still found the constant steering adjustments and the noise from the rugged tires to be a drawback.
However, it’s a bit disappointing that you can’t fit golf bags horizontally or diagonally in the trunk of such a large vehicle... 
One day, when I can open the power top and remove all the windows and doors, I’d be willing to overlook that inconvenience for a truly open-air experience.
Is that right?