2021 Jeep Wrangler vs Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Those who like more rugged adventures throughout Franklin, Greenwood, or New Whiteland, Indiana, will need a vehicle that matches. The Jeep Wrangler may come to mind—and there’s good reason for that. This vehicle continues its legacy of off-roading prowess and toughness with its modern models.

The benefits of a Jeep Wrangler are clear, but you still have to choose which type of Wrangler you want. Both the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited have a lot to offer, but only one can be best suited for your next ride. Find out which works best for your needs in our comprehensive 2021 Jeep Wrangler vs. Jeep Wrangler Unlimited comparison. Then, schedule a test drive at Fletcher Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR)!

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Jeep Wrangler vs Wrangler Unlimited: Size

A clear difference between the two Wranglers is their size, with the Wrangler Unlimited being slightly bigger. This is because it’s the 4-door model, while the regular Wrangler is the 2-door model. They’re both the same height, coming in at 73.6 inches, but the Unlimited is significantly longer, measuring at 188.4 inches compared to the regular Wrangler’s 166.8-inch length.

Due to the length difference, you’ll find that the regular Wrangler is a bit more maneuverable. With a turning radius of 17.3 feet, you’ll find it easier to corner when compared to the Wrangler Unlimited’s 20.4-foot turning diameter. While drivability is slightly in the Wrangler’s favor, the Unlimited’s size grants it other advantages.

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Jeep Wrangler vs Wrangler Unlimited: Interior

One of those advantages will be more interior space. Both the Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited do have roomy cabins, and you’ll have 42.6 inches of headroom and 41.2 inches of legroom behind the wheel of both models. Rear passengers, on the other hand, will have more room in the back of the Unlimited, which offers 38.3 inches of legroom compared to the regular Wrangler’s 35.7 inches of legroom.

There’s also room for one more passenger in the Unlimited. While the regular Wrangler offers seating for four, the Wrangler Unlimited can seat five people comfortably by allowing for an extra person in the center of the back row. While having room for another person is certainly useful, this does actually put the regular Wrangler ahead in terms of rear shoulder room, as it has 57.7 inches compared to the Unlimited’s 55.7 inches when at maximum capacity.

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Jeep Wrangler vs Wrangler Unlimited: Cargo Space

Just as the interior seating dimensions are different, so too is the available cargo space on these Jeep models. Thanks to the extra space it offers, the Wrangler Unlimited is able to provide considerably more cargo room.

When rear row passengers are seated in the Unlimited, you’ll have up to 31.7 cubic feet of space to store your gear. On the regular Wrangler, you’ll only have 12.9 cubic feet.

Then, when you fold the rear row down, you’ll see up to 72.4 cubic feet of room on the Unlimited. Its counterpart will offer less space again, at 46.9 cubic feet. Therefore, those planning to need more space may be better off choosing the Wrangler Unlimited.

With either model, you’ll have the chance to upgrade to the available Trail Rail™ Cargo Management System. This provides aluminum rails on the tailgate and cargo floor to give you extra storage options. You’ll also get cargo anchors to further hold gear in place. The regular Wrangler will offer four of these anchors while the Unlimited will score you six.

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Jeep Wrangler vs Wrangler Unlimited: Capability

Both Wrangler vehicles are incredibly capable and able to conquer virtually any off-road challenge. Each Jeep model has earned the Trail Rated® badge for exceptional performance in articulation, maneuverability, water fording, ground clearance, and traction. In either one, you’ll feel confident travelling over all sorts of terrain.  

Their 4-wheel-drive systems are also state-of-the-art, and you’ll enjoy the strength of the standard Command-Trac® 4x4 system, which provides part-time 4x4 capability. If you want 4x4 traction going at all times, then you can upgrade to the available Selec-Trac® Full-Time 4x4 system. The highest trim level of the Rubicon even features its own unique options, like the standard Rock-Trac® 4x4 System or available Rock-Trac® Full-Time 4x4 System.  

Both Wrangler models sport powerful 3.6L V6 engines that produce 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, and while they feature the same engine, the Unlimited is a bit more capable when it comes to towing capacity. If you’re looking to bring a trailer with you on your next adventure, the Wrangler Unlimited can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while the regular Wrangler’s maximum towing capacity is 2,000 pounds.

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Jeep Wrangler vs. Wrangler Unlimited: Exterior Design

The Wrangler is often notable for its removable doors and roof. It gives the vehicle a more unique look and really shows off its rugged nature. On the Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited, you’ll be given a TORX® tool kit to easily remove everything.

There will, however, be some differences between the two when it comes to choosing which roof to use. Both versions of the Wrangler will come standard with the Sunrider® Soft Top, or you can upgrade to the Freedom Top® Modular Hardtop. The Unlimited throws in another option though: the Sky One-Touch® Power Top. Rather than remove the roof yourself, you can press a button to slide it backwards. If you want the added convenience of the power roof, then the Unlimited may be the model to choose. 

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Jeep Wrangler vs Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Verdict

After reading our 2021 Jeep Wrangler vs. Jeep Wrangler Unlimited comparison, it’s clear that the winner depends on what you value. If you’re looking for easy maneuverability, the regular Wrangler is a great fit. The Wrangler Unlimited, however, is the clear choice if you want space for carrying more passengers and cargo, extra towing potential, or the power roof.

Whichever option you choose, you can test them out at Fletcher CDJR, a local Jeep dealer for drivers in Franklin, Greenwood, and New Whiteland, IN. Schedule your test drive today!