Petersen’s 4-Wheel & Off-Road Magazine honored the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with its 4X4 of the Year award. The very capable vehicle bested the Dodge Ram Power for the prestigious accolade. This is the 3rd time that the Wrangler has won an award and the 12th time for the Jeep brand in its 30 year history. Before winning the award, the Rubicon had to undergo a 1,000 mile trial that required it to be driven in in dirt, mud, sand, rocks, gravel and road. The styling of the vehicle as well as the comfort that it provides were also considered.
For the 2012 version of the Wrangler, Jeep has replaced the unpopular 3.7 liter engine with a 285-horsepower Pentastar V6. Various changes in the interior has also been implemented. For sure, 4X 4 road lovers will take notice of the changes in the Wrangler in the same way that Petersen’s 4X4 & Off-Road have appreciated them. According to Rick Péwé, the magazine’s editor-in-chief, the Rubicon is “the most competent 4×4 ever produced..” He added that the Jeep “allows you to take the trail less traveled without worrying about the journey.”
The Petersen’s 4-Wheel & Off-Road Magazine 4X4 of the Year Award is one of the most coveted awards for 4X4 and off-road vehicles. To be eligible for it, a vehicle must have made substantial improvements from its previous version. It also must be available for sale before January 15 of the model year and have a production run of at least 2,500 units. Finally, the vehicle must be equipped with a two-speed transfer case.
If you want to see the complete test results and vehicle evaluations for the 2012 4X4 of the Year competition, you should watch out for the February 2012 issue of Petersen’s 4-Wheel & Off-Road Magazine that will become available on December 6, 2012.
Source: http://www.autoblog.com
