Coke, Jeep, and the USA

America is the homeland of Jeep. Born from an offer to the U.S. Army, it is truly a symbol of that nation. In fact, a past survey on brand recognition in Japan placed Jeep second only to Coca-Cola.

However, considering that 83 percent of its production is now sold outside the United States, this may no longer be the case. Like other brands, it may have entered a borderless era.

Driving the Sacred Rubicon Trail

This event for the media was held in the mountains of California, around Lake Tahoe.

Indeed, it was the Rubicon Trail itself—a place used for Jeep Jamborees and testing Jeep's off-road technology. It left a strong impression on me personally; I recall being astonished by Jeep's off-road prowess during a visit in 1998. I immediately purchased a Wrangler upon returning home, becoming captivated by its world.

Incidentally, the Jeep Jamboree is said to have originated in 1953 when 155 Jeep enthusiasts traversed this very route towards Lake Tahoe from the Sierra Nevada direction, a path later named the Rubicon Trail. It spans 35km, and during the Jeep Jamboree, participants complete it over a night while camping.





The reason for visiting such a place was to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the "Rubicon," the Wrangler's high-spec off-road model. The objective of this trip was to test drive the 10th Anniversary Edition.

What is the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon?

First, let's review the Wrangler Rubicon.

This model's key feature is its electronic locking differentials. While the center differential locks in part-time 4WD, button presses can lock the rear differential, and even the front differential.

Furthermore, its 4:1 low-range gear ratio for the 4WD system is a significant selling point. It's likely the best among production vehicles.

Additionally, it has a system to disengage the front sway bar, allowing the suspension to extend and maximize tire contact with the ground. This is particularly effective in rock crawling sections. As seen in the monster off-roaders competing in the Baja 1000, suspension travel is a crucial factor for off-road capability.





The 10th Anniversary model further enhances approach and departure angles with its custom bumpers. These feature cutouts on the front sides and a steel winch mounted in the center.

Moreover, it comes standard with BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain tires. While it might be challenging to sell these bumpers and tires as standard equipment in Japan, the "authentic" approach is clearly different.

There's Nothing Else Like This Car

The test vehicle was a four-door Unlimited Rubicon. While its longer wheelbase compared to the two-door version slightly compromises off-road prowess, it offers a more comfortable ride. In fact, the fact that the Unlimited can clear the Rubicon Trail demonstrates the inherent capability of the Wrangler itself.

This means you can confidently press the accelerator on gravelly paths, and while the vehicle still pitches significantly, it's more manageable than the two-door. As we ventured into the mountains, the true highlight was undoubtedly the rock crawling sections.

The real test of its capabilities came when the terrain was slightly muddied by river water.





In situations where traction might be lost with only the center differential locked, engaging the rear differential lock allows for passage. I love the feeling of the Mud-Terrain tires gripping the surface with that low growl. I've driven off-road courses across North America and even Africa, but this sensation is truly addictive.

Another pleasing aspect is how the rear suspension feels longer than expected. While solid axles often give an impression of limited travel, that's not the case here. It reminds me of what they said about the four-wheel independent suspension of the "Range Rover"—that its computer simulates the movement of a solid axle.





However, just like in Japan, Jeep sells the majority of its vehicles in urban areas in the United States. In that sense, this model is undoubtedly overkill.

Nevertheless, in today's world where 600- and 700-horsepower supercars, often underutilized, are commonplace, it's not surprising to see a model designed for off-road dominance emerge. Thus, I find myself falling for the Jeep world once again after 15 years. I am completely captivated by its allure.

Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition
Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition
Body Dimensions | Length 4,705 x Width 1,880 x Height 1,845 mm
Wheelbase | 2,945 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,570 / 1,570 mm
Ground Clearance | 220 mm
Minimum Turning Radius | 7.1 meters
Weight | 2,050 kg
Engine | 3,604cc V6 DOHC
Compression Ratio | 10.2 : 1
Bore x Stroke | 96.0 x 83.0 mm
Max. Output | 209kW (284ps) / 6,350 rpm
Max. Torque | 347Nm (35.4kgm) / 4,300 rpm
Transmission | 5-speed Automatic
Transfer Case | Floor-shift type
Transfer Case Gear Ratio | High 1.000 Low 4.000
Axle Ratio | 4.100
Drivetrain | Selectable 2WD / 4WD
Suspension | Coil Rigid
Tires | 245/75R17
Fuel Economy (JC08 Mode) | 7.4 km/ℓ
Price | 4,380,000 yen