Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
Sometimes, a car launch becomes as epic as the vehicle itself. The recent launch of the Jeep Wrangler in the Western Cape was exactly that – epic. The team at Stellantis understood the assignment perfectly, curating an experience that matched the rugged yet refined spirit of the Jeep Wrangler. Trust me, the word epic will pop up a lot because this experience truly was.
Starting point:
The journey began at Cape Town International Airport, where a small group of just 10 journalists paired up and lined up in the cars. The limited attendance made the
experience feel personal and exclusive. From the start, every detail was carefully
curated to reflect the Jeep Wrangler lifestyle – bold, adventurous, and designed for
those who work hard and play even harder.
Our convoy headed towards Somerset West, stopping at a breathtaking Idiom Wine
Estate with panoramic ocean and mountain views. Beyond the spectacular scenery, we had the chance to meet members of the Jeep Club.
These enthusiasts live and breathe the Jeep lifestyle, taking pride in customising their vehicles for maximum impact. Some of the Jeeps were so swooped-up with massive tyres and unique touches; it was clear these machines were ready for any terrain. Their passion was infectious; we felt like we were being recruited into this tight-knit community. After a hearty breakfast and lively conversations about all things Jeep, and a quick presentation to update us on the new car, we hit the road again, this time heading towards George.
The Drive:
My co-driver and I started our drive in the Sahara version of the Wrangler. It was solid on the road, silent enough for us to enjoy our Mary J. Blige soundtrack, and comfortable for deep conversations about life and dreams. At times, we pushed the car a little harder, and it handled beautifully. Our next stop was Tredici in Swellendam for lunch, a charming restaurant. As we shared a spectacular charcuterie board and delicious pizzas, we noticed curious onlookers drawn to the impressive line-up of Jeep Wranglers.
Their curiosity sparked conversations where we, transformed from motoring journalists to Jeep enthusiasts, eagerly shared insights about the vehicle and our journey. Back on the road, the convoy turned heads in every town we passed. Locals waved, and many approached us with questions about the striking vehicles. But this wasn’t just a straightforward motorway trip. The route took us along some of South Africa’s most scenic backroads, through mountain passes that showcased the country’s breathtaking beauty.
The chosen path saw us go through the Little Karoo and small towns, reinforcing the Wrangler’s reputation for conquering any terrain. Midway through, we switched to the more premium Rubicon model. Here, we noticed a few differences. The open design let in more air and road noise, which initially felt distracting. But once we settled in, it became part of the experience, forcing us to disconnect from music and truly immerse ourselves in the drive and the natural beauty around us.
Throughout the journey, the hospitality from the Stellantis team was impeccable. They checked in constantly, ensuring we were comfortable and fully enjoying the experience. One delightful touch that stood out was the presence of Jeep ducks. Originating in the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic, these small bath ducks became a symbol of community among Jeep Wrangler owners as a way of saying, “I see you”. Stellantis cleverly incorporated them throughout the launch, softening the Wrangler’s rugged image with a playful, human touch.
Interior
As for the Wrangler itself, it is a harmonious blend of tough exterior and plush interior. Despite its military-inspired roots, the cabin is luxurious with soft leather touches, a large intuitive touchscreen, and all the latest tech for seamless navigation. The seats are exceptionally comfortable, and the thoughtful layout ensures everything is within easy reach.
Going off-road:
Our journey led us to the small town of Ladismith, deep in the Little Karoo. With the sun beginning to set, the Jeep Wrangler came alive, finally in its element. Off-road terrain welcomed us with gravel roads, rocky paths, and clouds of dust trailing behind. It effortlessly tackled the mountains, crunching through stones and crossing streams. It felt like the child in each of us had reawakened, embracing the adventure as the sky shifted through shades of yellow, orange, and pink. The drive to the Rooiberg Lodge mountain lodge, nestled deep in nature’s embrace, set the tone for an unforgettable experience.
Arriving just after six, we freshened up for sundowners at the lodge. Surrounded by
majestic peaks, the lodge’s hospitality was unmatched. As the sun lazily dipped below the horizon, we enjoyed local olives and oils since the property also doubles as an olive farm. These were paired with cheeses that showcased the region’s culinary excellence. A sumptuous braai dinner followed, with laughter and conversation flowing late into the night.
At dawn, we were back on the trail, ascending the mountains for some serious off-
roading within the vast Rooiberg Lodge territory for sunrise. The Wrangler proved its capability once more, crawling over challenging terrain. Amidst the clouds, we savoured steaming coffee, soaking in the serene beauty of our surroundings.
Sand Dunes:
After breakfast and check-out, the adventure continued. Hours of off-roading through small towns eventually led us to Vleisbaai’s stunning dunes. Here, the Jeep faced its ultimate challenge. Tyres deflated for traction, we powered through the dunes with ease. The Wrangler handled the shifting sands with confidence, proving its versatility and robust performance. It was the perfect finale to an epic journey – nature conquered, memories made, and the Jeep Wrangler standing tall as the true champion of off-road adventures. This Jeep Wrangler launch wasn’t just a drive; it was an immersion into a lifestyle. A lifestyle where hard work meets hard play, where obstacles are meant to be conquered, and where every journey is, in a word, epic. The Wrangler doesn’t just take you places – it makes the journey unforgettable.
Pricing
Jeep Wrangler Sport: R1 199 900
Jeep Wrangler Sahara: R1 249 900
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon: R1 299 900
