After seeing the images online and pouring over the spec sheet, we were excited to finally get behind the wheel of the new 2013 Wrangler Unlimited Moab Edition. Marketed as a “rugged combination of capability and comfort”, the Moab Edition is a trail ready Jeep you can drive straight off the dealer lot and head for the trails. The first thing you notice about the Moab are the numerous design characteristics that Jeep incorporated into building this truck. From the sculptured Mopar power-dome hood to the custom Mopar front and rear bumpers, the attention to detail is evident throughout.
Our test vehicle was painted in their wild Gecko green. While it was a little too much for our tastes at first, it quickly grew on us and we definitely enjoyed how easily it was to spot in a crowded parking lot. The numerous all black accessories that come standard on the Moab Edition compliment the color nicely, especially the low-gloss black Moab decals on either side of the hood.
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Moab Edition is the sculpted Mopar power-dome hood. Not only does it add an element of design to the Jeep, it provides ample room for the new Pentastar V6 tucked underneath.
According to Jeep, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 has been specially configured for off-roading. The engine has a revised throttle body, a rear-facing alternator that is mounted up high, and a serpentine belt that will keep clear of mud and water. The Pentastar puts out 260 lb-ft of torque, which is perfect for that much-needed low-end when hitting the trails. Paired with the manual six-speed transmission, this Jeep has plenty of get up and go in the places you need it the most. We found that the Jeep was both fun to drive, both on and off the trail. Highway cruising was a breeze and we found ourselves slowing down on more than one occasion after noticing we were going a little faster than our law enforcement brothers and sisters would appreciate.
The Mopar front bumper provides good ground clearance and a solid approach angle. The satin black bumper is winch ready and features integrated fog lamps and 1/2″ thick tow loop main plates. Mount yourself a Warn, Superwinch, or Viking Winch and you’ll be ready for the rough roads ahead – and helping those that didn’t come so prepared!
The satin black Mopar rear bumper features mandrel bent corner protection tubes that are mounted directly to the frame in two locations. Not only does it provide a good departure angle, the rear bumper features well thought-out flat textured surfaces allowing you a safe place to reach roof top cargo or gain a higher vantage point.
Other body armor upgrades include functional rock rails by Mopar. Designed to add extra protection to sensitive areas like rocker panels and lower bodysides when exploring the trails, these heavy-duty tubular sliders are built stout from heavy gauge steel. The added texturing of the rock rails helps provide a more secure footing when using them as steps to enter or exit the Jeep.
In keeping with the overall design and feel, the Moab Edition comes standard with Mopar Satin Black fuel filler door with Jeep branding. Mopar Satin Black taillamp guards in Black aluminum are also come standard. Not only do they look nice, these taillamp guards help provide additional protection against the potential hazards that you could encounter on the trail.
The factory standard medium-gloss black-painted Rubicon 17″ wheels look awesome with the Goodyear Silent Armor Kevlar tires. While those looking for a beefier off-road tire will opt for something a little more meaty, the Silent Armor Goodyears will provide those less adventurous types with solid footing on backcountry roads and daily driving.
However, some of the nicest features about the Moab Editions are the ones you can’t see. The Command-Trac 4WD system is Trail Rated to handle challenging trails while giving you a smooth and quite operation with part-time shift-on-the-fly capability. The Moab comes standard with a solid Dana 44 rear axle. Pair that with the optional Tru-Lock electronic locker and your Moab Edition is a wheeling machine.
On the interior you’ll find upgrade styling and new black leather heated seats with black sticking. These seats include a new bolster design and improved foam for a more comfortable ride. Custom black stitching can also be found on the front door armrest and floor console to complete the look. Iron Gray accents can be found throughout the entire cabin. From the instrument panel to the vent rings and grab handles, the color offers a nice contrast when paired with the black leather seating.
One the small details we really enjoyed was the Moab Edition durable Mopar slush mats. Perfect for keeping the mud and dirt off your interior carpet, the slush mats provide deep grooves to catch the elements and keep your interior looking new for years to come.
With the improved powertrain and multitude of well thought out factory upgrades, the 2013 Wrangler Unlimited Moab Edition should definitely be on your shortlist if you’re considering buying a new Jeep. The starting MSRP of the Wrangler Unlimited Moab Edition is $36,495. We definitely enjoyed the time we had behind the wheel of this Jeep and it got the wheels turning about how to add another Jeep to our family. For more information about the Moab Edition, visit the Jeep website or your local Jeep dealership.