What Makes a Jeep Trail Rated?

As we mentioned above, Jeep offers numerous models of trim levels that wear the Trail Rated badge. Jeep models that have the Trail Rated badge on all trim levels include the Wrangler and Gladiator. While every Wrangler and Gladiator trim level has passed all five of Jeep's rigorous Trail Rated tests, which we'll detail below, the Rubicon and Rubicon X trim levels are by far the most capable vehicles in their respective lineups. Meanwhile, the remainder of the Jeep lineup, including the Renegade, Compass, Cherokee, and Grand Cherokee 4xe, all have a Trailhawk trim level, which is modified from the standard variants with off-roading equipment to earn the Trail Rated badge. 

The Trail Rated badge isn't earned by passing just one test. In fact, a car must pass five tests to evaluate the car's abilities in different environments. The five tests include maneuverability, wheel articulation, traction, water fording, and ground clearance. In order to earn the Trail Rated badge, a Jeep must meet the expectations in all five tests. Jeep tests their vehicle's maneuverability to ensure it is able to navigate narrow passes on trails without sacrificing control and handling. To pass this test, Jeep gives the vehicles specialized steering and suspension systems and optimized wheelbases. Wheel articulation refers to the suspension travel and how far the wheels can rise and drop with the compression and decompression of the shock absorbers. High levels of wheel articulation make it easier to maintain traction by keeping the wheels connected to the trail surface when it becomes uneven. All Trail Rated models feature exclusive off-road tuned suspension systems to enhance wheel articulation. Meanwhile, the Gladiator Rubicon, Wrangler Rubicon, and Grand Cherokee Trailhawk 4xe all feature electronic sway bar disconnect, allowing you to unlink the front stabilizer bar to allow the front wheels to rise and drop further. Traction is essential while off-roading, that's why all Trail Rated vehicles come with one of Jeep's most capable 4x4 systems. Furthermore, all Jeep Trail Rated vehicles feature all-terrain tires with tread patterns designed to grip the trail surface. Water fording is how much water the vehicle can take on without sustaining any damage. This test is passed with high air intake and sealed electrical connections. Finally, ground clearance tests the vehicle's approach, breakover, and departure angles to prevent damage to the undercarriage and essential components while traversing rugged terrain.

As you may know, Jeep has an array of trails across the country called Badge of Honor trails. Two of these trails are used as test locations for the brand's Trail Rated vehicles. The first is the Rubicon Trail. Situated high in the Sierra Nevada mountain range near Lake Tahoe, California, this trail is constantly subjected to extreme weather and nearly constant traffic, creating an ever-changing environment with deep puddles, narrow wooded passages, jagged rocks, and steep inclines and declines, making it perfect for testing a vehicle's off-roading capabilities. Jeep also uses the trails of Moab, Utah. The steep faces, narrow passes, and uneven terrain push the vehicle's traction, wheel articulation, ground clearance, and maneuverability.

The Jeep Trail Rated badge is a symbol of Jeep's commitment to providing mind-boggling off-road capability across the brand's lineup. If you're interested in getting behind the wheel of a Trail Rated Jeep in New Jersey, Fullerton Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram should be your one-stop shop! Here, you can find an array of Trail Rated models like the Gladiator Rubicon, Wrangler Rubicon 4xe, and more! Head over to our new inventory to make your selection. If you have any questions about our Jeep inventory or would like to schedule an appointment for a test drive, please use the contact form below to reach our sales team.