The Jeep Wrangler X is one of those Jeep models that are subject to a lot of discussion on Jeep forums. The main reason for this could be the fact that it can mean very different things for Jeep trims and models from different generations.
To bring this into perspective, there are 3 different types of Jeeps that carry the X badge. The first is the base trim TJ in 2002. The second one is the Wrangler X also ran in the JK up until 2009 and was replaced by the Sport trim in 2010. The third one is a limited-edition of the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon from 2024.
Difference Between a Wrangler and Wrangler X
Let’s break this down a little further and present it in a manner that the Jeep layman will understand. In 1997, Jeep started producing the TJ model. This was the successor to the YJ that had run from 1986.
In 2002, the Rubicon and Sahara trims of the CJ were introduced. The Sahara was the luxury version with more luxurious finishing inside and out as well as electronics that were a step above the standard base trim.
The Rubicon was tailored to tackle off-road conditions coming fitted the Dana 44 axles front and rear instead of the standard 35s. The X was the base model. You could think of it as the canvas on which you could add whatever extras you wanted.
With some aftermarket mods, you could take it up to the same level as a Rubicon. This though would include switching out the front and rear Dana 35s for 44s among other things.
History of the Jeep Wrangler X
As already stated, the Jeep Wrangler X trim came onto the scene in 2002. This was the year that the Sahara and Rubicon trim also came onto the market.
Instead of having just one trim, Jeep looked to cater to different tastes. Aftermarket mods were already happening within the Jeep community through independent companies These companies were offering solutions to fill the gap that Jeep was not catering to.
Perhaps the addition of the Sahara and Rubicon trims was a way of bridging this gap. The base model X came with an X badge.
Those who added modifications to it ended up removing the badge when they started making the mods. The Wrangler X came with a 4L engine which was replaced by the 3.6L Pentastar V6 in later models. The X came without tow hooks or fog lights included. These could be added on as extras.
The tradition of naming the base level Wrangler the X continued throughout the rest of the run of the TJ which ended in 2006. In 2007, the JK came onto the scene and carried on this tradition until 2009. The JK also had the X Unlimited which was the new 4 door version of the Wrangler which had a longer wheelbase.
In 2009, the X also had 3 packages in the 2dr version. These were:
- B package – Barebones with no extras
- C Package – Came with AM/FM radio, CD, high/low driver seat adjustment, and Aircon
- S Package – Came with tow hooks, fog lights, Sahara rims, and hardtop In 2010, Jeep discontinued the Wrangler X and replaced it with the Sport trim. To date, it is the base level trim of all subsequent Wrangler models.
Jeep Wrangler X 2015 Edition
In 2015, Jeep brought back the Jeep X, not as a standard trim but a special edition. This was in honor of the Winter X Games which Jeep has been helping to sponsor for a while now. The 2015 Jeep X is actually based on the luxury Sahara trim.
It has blacked-out rims and grills, black bumpers as well a badge. The interior has the standard luxury Sahara finishings as well as gadgets. It has a 3.6L Pentastar V6 with 5 speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. It comes in the 2 door and 4 door unlimited.
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X 2024
Jeep has also been producing the Rubicon in an X variant since 2024. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X Package is a limited-edition model that offers a more refined look and additional features to the already capable Rubicon trim. It features a black grille, black wheels, a body-color hard top, and a unique interior with leather seats and a touchscreen infotainment system. The Rubicon X Package is available with either a 2.8-liter turbo diesel or a 3.6-liter V6 engine and is available in Europe and the US in the second quarter of 2024.
What does the X stand for on a Jeep Wrangler?
The “X” stands for the base model of a Jeep Wrangler. The mid-level is the “Sahara”or “S”. The top-level of a Jeep Wrangler is the Rubicon or “R”. All models come with different sorts of options you can add.
What is the difference between Wrangler Sport and X?
While the two models share many similarities, the Sport, the later model, boasts additional standard features such as tow hooks, fog lights, and cloth seats. The X, on the other hand, came standard with vinyl seats and lacked these extra amenities. Interestingly, 2009 X models were already equipped with standard tow hooks and fog lights. The “X” designation was phased out in favor of the “Sport” starting with the 2010 model year.
Is a Jeep Wrangler X the same as a TJ?
No, a Jeep Wrangler X and a Jeep TJ are very different from one another. A Jeep Wrangler X is a base model of the Jeep Wrangler TJ. It features smaller wheels and fewer options than other models.
Conclusion on Jeep Wrangler X
As you can see from this post, there are basically 3 different types of Jeep X. The first is the entry-level trim of the Jeep Wrangler that ran from 2002 to 2009 and the second is the 2015 Jeep Wrangler X which is a completely different model based on the luxury Sahara trim. The third one is a limited-edition of the Rubicon from 2024.
We hope this article has helped clear the air as to the differences between the 3 and given you a better understanding.
