With Record Sales in May, Jeep Wrangler's Appeal Continues to Expand

NATICK, Mass., June 14, 2013 — U.S. drivers bought more Jeep Wranglers than ever before in 2012, and their affinity for the off-roading icon is only growing this year. Sales of the Jeep Wrangler hit an all-time high in May, while in the same month, the one-millionth unit of the current-generation model rolled off its assembly line in Toledo, Ohio.

More than 16,000 Wranglers found new homes in the United States last month, resulting in a 13 percent increase compared to May 2012. Year-to-date, the Jeep Wrangler is now up 9 percent compared to its record-setting sales performance from the same period last year. The current generation of the utility vehicle, known as the Wrangler JK, debuted for the 2007 model year on a wider platform, but it has since received several significant updates, including a powerful-yet-efficient 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine and a more refined interior.

"The Wrangler has always had a fervent fan base, but the updates in recent years have really boosted the vehicle's appeal among more mainstream buyers," said Richard Gill, owner of Brigham-Gill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, a Natick, Massachusetts Jeep dealership. "The most striking example is probably the Pentastar engine, because it has showed buyers that the current Wrangler is not only an off-road legend, but also a viable vehicle for commuters."

Introduced for the 2012 model year, the Wrangler's standard Pentastar V6 powerplant returns 21 mpg on the highway, yet it has more than enough output to maintain the vehicle's signature capability, producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. For the 2013 model year, a new limited-edition Jeep Wrangler Moab is available with added trail-ready features like gloss-black 17-inch Rubicon alloy wheels, Goodyear Silent Armor off-road tires with Kevlar reinforcement, premium rock rails and winch-ready steel bumpers.

While the Wrangler has been outfitted with a more capable exterior in recent years, its interior has become more comfortable and convenient. Soft-touch materials are found throughout the cabin, and the instrument panel features new courtesy and ambient lighting to set a calmer mood for passengers after dark. Meanwhile, an optional Uconnect 430N System is available with navigation, Bluetooth streaming audio and voice-activated phone calls to keep drivers connected no matter how far off road they travel.

"The Wrangler is still as rugged as can be on the outside, but you certainly don't feel like you're roughing it when you're sitting in one," added Gill. "The improved comfort and cutting-edge technology have attracted a lot of new buyers, but at the same time, we haven't heard any longtime Wrangler fans complain about the added amenities either."

About Brigham-Gill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram:
Family-owned Brigham-Gill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram has been helping Metro West drivers find new and used Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge and Ram vehicles for the past 45 years. They also provide expert auto service and OEM Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep parts, all backed up by their friendly, professional staff. Check out their wide selection of new and pre-owned cars, trucks and SUVs at www.brighamgillmotorcars.com, or stop by their dealership, located at 817 Worcester Road (Route 9) in Natick, Massachusetts. You can reach them by phone at 877-881-6196 or like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/brighamgill to get the latest Jeep, Chrysler, Ram and Dodge news.