Is the Jeep Wrangler Technically a Coupe?
Jeep owners are a different breed. They all belong to a unique group who proudly proclaim, “It’s a Jeep thing.” They even have their own wave when they pass other owners on the road. Still, one thing that all owners can undoubtedly agree on is that the Jeep Wrangler, in particular, is not a coupe. However, let’s investigate that claim.
The typical Jeep Wrangler only has two doors, although the four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited model is the most popular model many drivers and consumers are familiar with. Additionally, some Jeep Wranglers do have hard-top roofs. Does that mean this type of Wrangler can be considered a coupe? Let’s see what it takes to be a coupe and see if the two-door Wrangler qualifies.
What is a coupe?
As reported by Autoblog, a coupe is a type of car with two doors, a fixed roof, and a three-box design. Traditionally, coupes were designed for high performance and luxury, but today, they can also be more practical and affordable. Coupes are typically smaller and more compact than sedan cars and often have a sportier appearance and two rows of seats. They are popular among car enthusiasts who appreciate their sleek design and driving dynamics. Some coupes also come in convertible versions, where the roof can be removed to provide an open-air driving experience.
When we talk about “crossover coupes” or “SUV coupes,” the concept of a coupe is even more ambiguous. Let’s take Mercedes as an example. The Mercedes-Benz GLC or GLE Coupe is considered an SUV. Naturally, none of these cars have two doors; instead, they all have four doors plus a liftback for the trunk. Then, what makes them coupes in some eyes? The roofline is everything. The roofline gives it a fastback styling and sporty appearance with smooth curves.
Does the two-door Jeep Wrangler fit the criteria for a coupe?
Based on the definition, the Jeep Wrangler isn’t technically a coupe. As suggested, the roofline is everything regarding the coupe classification. The Wrangler is boxy and not at all sporty looking, so the roofline doesn’t qualify. However, it has two doors and two rows of seats, and some models have hard-top roofs, but it does not have a three-box design.
Additionally, the Wrangler could be considered a convertible. The Wrangler does come with a soft-top and a hard-top version that is removable. So, does this feature alone make it a convertible? The truth is, the Wrangler, like many Jeep enthusiasts, is in a class all by itself.
The Jeep Wrangler’s odd classification
The Jeep Wrangler is classified by Jeep as a compact to midsize SUV, depending on whether you opt for a two-door or four-door model, respectively. Car and Driver compares it to the Ford Bronco and the Toyota 4Runner. The two-door Wrangler comes standard with a removable cloth top as well as an optional hard top shell, with plenty of customization and build options available.
Additionally, the Wrangler offers many more powertrain options than its rivals, including the 4xe plug-in hybrid variant and a 470-hp V8 exclusive to the Rubicon 392 model. In the end, it remains true to its roots as an off-road champ. Considering all of these factors, the Wrangler certainly falls far outside the realm of the coupe.
The Jeep Wrangler has a long history of military service and is a consumer favorite. It has been commercially sold since 1987 and is one of the best-selling Jeeps ever. The Wrangler is iconic in its style, which is instantly recognizable. From military vehicles to one of the most popular off-road vehicles, its unique classification as a convertible midsize SUV definitely fits in a category all its own.
