The 2013 Jeep Wrangler Moab Edition: An In-Depth Exploration of an Off-Road Icon
Named in recognition of the of mountainous Utah region that plays host to the annual Moab Easter Jeep Safari, the newest addition to the Wrangler lineup aims to bridge the gap between Rubicon ruggedness and Sahara style. The Moab is available in either two-door Wrangler or four-door Wrangler Unlimited guise. Just so onlookers are aware of the Moab’s uniqueness, distinguishing exterior features include steel bumpers front and rear, rock sliders on the sills, and a sculpted hood. Color choice is limited to black, white, and a quartet of cheekily named Jeep signature hues: Gecko, Dozer, Crush, and Rock Lobster; fender flares come only in matte black.
Power is produced by the same 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 that motivates the rest of the Wrangler roster; a limited-slip rear differential is standard (an option on Sport and Sahara models), and a locking unit is optional. Neither a front locker nor the Rubicon’s ultra-low 4:1 transfer case are available; Moab drivers will have to make do with the Wrangler’s standard 2.72:1 unit. Goodyear SilentArmor tires (already in use on Wranglers sold in Mexico and international markets) wrap around black-painted versions of the same wheels found on the 2013 Rubicon.
A host of new features available across the entire 2013 Wrangler lineup also apply to the Moab: newly contoured seats and trim, a lever for one-handed rear-seat folding (previously a two-handed operation), ambient cabin lighting, and the triumphant return of a second windshield washer nozzle. Optional equipment includes a soft canvas top—cut from the same cloth as the Chrysler 200 Convertible’s—and a soft-top lift assist that reduces by half the effort required to raise the roof (Jeep people are party people) assembly.
Historical Context
The Jeep Wrangler has a storied history that traces back to the military Jeeps of World War II, which became symbols of durability and versatility. The TJ generation (1997-2006) introduced modern suspension systems and re-established the classic Jeep design. The JK generation, launched in 2007, aimed to further modernize the Wrangler while maintaining its rugged and adventurous character. By 2013, the Wrangler was well-known for its off-road prowess, and special editions like the Moab Edition were introduced to cater to enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance and unique styling.
Design and Styling
The 2013 Jeep Wrangler Moab Edition features several distinctive design elements that set it apart from standard Wrangler models:
- Exclusive Exterior Colors: The Moab Edition is available in unique colors such as Black, Bright White, and Gecko Green, which add to its distinctive appearance.
- Special Badging and Decals: The Moab Edition includes unique badging on the exterior, along with exclusive decals featuring the Moab name and logo.
- 17-inch Gloss Black Wheels: The Moab Edition comes with 17-inch gloss black Rubicon wheels, fitted with 245/75R17 Goodyear Silent Armor tires, designed for enhanced off-road performance and a rugged appearance.
- Body-Colored Fender Flares and Hard Top: These elements match the vehicle’s color, offering a cohesive and refined look.
- Power Dome Hood: This special hood design adds a rugged, aggressive look that complements the vehicle’s off-road capability.
- Rock Rails and Front and Rear Steel Bumpers: Borrowed from the Rubicon, these features provide additional protection when navigating challenging terrains.
Chassis and Suspension
The Moab Edition, like all Wranglers, is built for off-road capability with a robust chassis and suspension system:
- Frame Construction: A strong and durable frame enhances both safety and off-road performance.
- Five-Link Coil Suspension: This system provides a balance of on-road comfort and off-road articulation, essential for varied terrains.
- Dana 44 Rear Axle and Dana 30 Front Axle: These axles offer durability and strength, making them well-suited for off-road excursions.
Engine Options and Performance
The 2013 Jeep Wrangler Moab Edition is powered by a reliable engine designed for both on-road and off-road performance:
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V6: This engine produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic transmission. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 provides significant power and efficiency, offering strong performance for everyday driving and off-road adventures.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the 2013 Wrangler Moab Edition blends practicality with unique styling elements:
- Special Interior Badging: Moab logos are featured on the front seats, adding a distinctive touch.
- Unique Upholstery: The seats feature black leather with contrasting stitching, providing a rugged yet refined feel.
- Upgraded Audio System: An Infinity audio system with seven speakers, including a subwoofer, provides enhanced sound quality.
- Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth: This system provides hands-free communication and entertainment options, enhancing convenience and safety.
- Premium Floor Mats: Featuring the Moab logo, these mats add to the interior’s themed ambiance.
Safety and Technology
Safety features in the 2013 Wrangler Moab Edition include:
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Standard on all models, enhancing safety and control both on and off-road.
- Anti-lock Brakes (ABS): Standard, providing better braking performance in various conditions.
- Traction Control: Standard, improving traction on slippery surfaces.
- Advanced Multi-Stage Airbags: Providing enhanced protection for driver and passengers.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Moab Edition, like all Wranglers, is designed for exceptional off-road performance:
- Trail Rated: Certified under Jeep’s Trail Rated program, this edition meets rigorous standards for traction, water fording, maneuverability, articulation, and ground clearance.
- Command-Trac 4×4 System: This part-time four-wheel-drive system includes a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, ideal for tackling various off-road conditions.
- Tru-Lok Rear Differential: An available feature that provides improved traction in low-traction conditions by locking the rear differential.
Special Models and Editions
The Moab Edition is one of several special editions offered by Jeep to celebrate specific themes and cater to different customer preferences:
- Wrangler Sport: The base model, offering essential features and off-road capability at an affordable price.
- Sahara: Aimed at those wanting luxury with off-road capability, featuring body-colored fender flares, premium interior materials, and additional comfort features.
- Rubicon: The most capable off-road model, featuring Dana 44 axles, Rock-Trac transfer case, and locking differentials.
- Unlimited: The four-door model providing increased cargo space and comfort, expanding the Wrangler’s appeal to families and those needing more versatility.
Legacy and Impact
The 2013 Jeep Wrangler Moab Edition holds a special place in Jeep’s history for several reasons:
- Unique Styling: The Moab Edition’s rugged and adventurous design elements make it stand out among other Wrangler models, appealing to those looking for a distinctive vehicle.
- Off-Road Capability: True to the Jeep tradition, the Moab Edition offers exceptional off-road performance, making it a favorite among adventure enthusiasts.
- Collector’s Appeal: Special editions like the Moab Edition often have higher resale values and appeal to collectors due to their unique features and limited production.
Conclusion
The 2013 Jeep Wrangler Moab Edition is a rugged and unique addition to the Wrangler lineup, blending the legendary off-road capability of the Wrangler with special design elements inspired by the challenging terrains of Moab, Utah. Its distinctive styling, special badging, and enhanced performance make it a sought-after vehicle for collectors, off-road enthusiasts, and adventurers alike. Whether navigating challenging trails or cruising through urban environments, the Moab Edition embodies the adventurous spirit and rugged reliability that Jeep is known for, making it a cherished model in the brand’s history.