The Jeep Wrangler has been a star of the off-roading show since its reveal in 1986. Over the years, it has had several iterations that created its own fanbases. If you ever visit a Jeep Wrangler forum, every Jeep veteran would describe a version dear to their hearts. It may even be the one that they don’t currently own.
However, none of the discussions gets more heated than which is better 2 door or 4 door Jeep Wrangler, especially in Australia. There have been quiet evenings in Sydney pubs that ended with tyre irons just because someone uttered the words, “Jeep Wrangler 4-door is better.” For all those hardcore fans, here is the definitive piece that shall settle the case once and for all.
Performance
2-door Jeep Wranglers have a shorter wheelbase and a lighter chassis than their 4-door counterparts. As such, the installed powertrain is more effective in propelling the car forward. It is also why a 2-door Wrangler has better mileage and is easy to park.
In terms of handling, the 4-door variant is much more well-behaved. Its long body distributes the weight evenly across both axles. Combined with the robust 4x4 drive system, it provides a stable platform when going around corners. The weight distribution also helps get it a greater towing capacity (1587 Kg. compared to the 2-door Wrangler’s 907 Kg.)
Still, the 2-door Jeep Wrangler is the clear winner when you go off the tarmac. The small size makes it more adept for crossing rocky and muddy terrain. The lighter chassis means the engine has less load to work with when going up steep inclines. In addition to that, you can explore the wilderness further with a full tank of petrol.
Visuals
When it comes to visual appeal, the 2-door Jeep Wrangler is more alluring. It carries the spirit of the old Willys Jeep of WWII much better than its 4-door alternative. Its boxy shape makes it seem more aggressive. When equipped with a suitable body kit and attachments, it looks prepared to take on anything the Outback can throw at it.
The two extra doors may be great for interior space but ruin the iconic shape by breaking the flow of the chassis and giving a bit of width to the body.
Price
While the price of the Jeep Wrangler varies with the trim, the 2-door model will usually save you around AUD 4000. There are trims, like the Night Eagle and Overland, that only come with a 4-door option. The extra cost is not just because of the fewer doors, but also because of the smaller back seats and an inferior electrical system.
Furthermore, the overall ownership costs are lower for a 2-door Jeep Wrangler than the 4-door variant of the same trim. In a five-year ownership period, you can save up to AUD 10,000 if you go for the 2-door option.
Comfort
Passengers used to a 2-door Jeep Wrangler would find the 4-door version much cozier. The rear of the passenger cabin has more leg room, increasing the Wrangler’s seating capacity to 5. The rear visibility gets a big boost as well. It is spacious enough to install a couple of LED TVs and USB charging ports in the back without any trouble.
Regarding cargo, the 4-door variant has more than twice the cargo capacity of its 2-door sibling. If it still falls short of what you require, you can always fold the rear seats down to make more room. Although, if you like driving with the top down, it is easier to operate in the 2-door version.
Degree of Customisation
Both the Jeep Wrangler 2-door and 4-door have varying levels of customisation in different areas. If you prefer exterior modifications, like alloy wheels, running boards, and fog lamps, the 2-door version offers more versatility. You can even go further and augment the off-road capabilities by installing cargo racks and a power winch without any issues.
If you want more comfort and technology in the passenger compartment, the 4-door Jeep Wrangler serves you better. It is easier to modify the climate control and add a fragrance system into the vents. The extra space allows for more powerful audio, should the Alpine 12-speaker surround sound system not make the cut. In the case of materials, it can equip Nappa leather upholstery with ease.
Safety
The IIHS and the NHTSA have tested both the 2-door and 4-door versions of the Jeep Wrangler. They received about average scores due to the lack of curtain-side airbags, even though the chassis strength and safety assist systems were adequate. All Jeep Wranglers, including 2-door and 4-door versions, come with electronic brake distribution, ABS, and independent traction control.
Even so, the 2-door Wrangler is somewhat more dangerous to drive, particularly when turning through sharp corners. The higher centre of gravity increases the roll-over risk, though the 4WD system can help balance it in most conditions. Moreover, the need to remove the front to allow seats to allow the rear passengers to exit also makes things tenser.
Why Choose Just Jeeps for 2-Door or 4-Door Jeep Wrangler Parts
To conclude, the question of which is the best 2 door or 4 door Jeep Wrangler has an answer according to your needs. If you wish to venture out to take on the challenges of nature, the 2-door Jeep Wrangler is a perfect choice. Those who want more practicality and take their family out for excursions may prefer the 4-door Jeep Wrangler.
We have been operating in Australia for the better part of 30 years and have observed the Jeep Wrangler evolving. No matter which one you have, it can be challenging to upkeep with the right parts. It is especially true for a version that went out of production long ago. Just Jeeps can help you keep your Jeep Wrangler in the best shape for as long as possible.
Whether you need cosmetics or performance parts, we can get them delivered right to your doorstep within a short timeframe. You can browse our inventory online or visit any of our stores near you. Our staff is highly trained with most Jeep models. They can assist with quality repairs and modifications for your car.