2008 Jeep Wrangler Safety Review [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 54 Wrangler reviews and test drives.
Safety - What the Auto Press Says
Both the two-door and Unlimited four-door versions of the 2008 Jeep Wrangler do extremely well in federal government crash tests. Jeep also provides a number of accident avoidance features as standard equipment.
The two-door Wrangler and Unlimited model each receive 5-star scores for driver and passenger safety in frontal crash tests. Side crash tests have not been conducted. Both models receive 4 stars for two-wheel-drive versions in rollover tests, and 3 stars for four-wheel-drive versions. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the 2008 Wrangler a top rating of "Good" in frontal offset tests, but much lower ratings of "Marginal" in side impact and rear protection tests. However, note that these ratings are for Wranglers without the optional side air bags.
Accident Avoidance
Standard accident avoidance equipment on all models includes electronic stability control and anti-lock brakes with brake assist and traction control. For 2007, Jeep added Chrysler's rollover mitigation technology, a system that can pulse individual brakes to prevent potential rollovers.
It's important to note that some reviewers found that rear visibility could pose a hazard. The Washington Post reports, "[T]he headrests in the back seats are so big, they limit rearview vision."
Crash Protection
Standard crash protection equipment includes advanced multi-stage front air bags, which deploy at varying speeds depending on the severity of a collision. Side-impact air bags are optional, while side curtain air bags aren't even offered. The Detroit Free Press notes that the Wrangler still trails its competition in some safety features, as side curtain air bags are offered by competitors including the Toyota FJ Cruiser and Hummer H3.
