The Jeep Wrangler Sahara is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 coupled to a 6-speed manual transmission, but my test vehicle was powered by the upgraded 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6 ($4,000) and the 850RE 8-speed automatic transmission ($2,000). It delivers 260 horsepower at 3,600 rpm and 442 lb.-ft. of torque at 1,400-2,800 rpm. The engine has Engine Stop/Start (ESS) to conserve fuel, and the resulting fuel economy is rated at 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway for a 22 mpg average. However, for my week of driving I netted just a shade over 30 mpg.
The Sahara model includes the Command-Trac 4X4 System with the NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer case that features a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. Off-roading prowess is further ensured with next-generation Dana front and rear axles. In addition, Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential provides torque and grip in low-traction environments, such as sand, mud, or snow.
