2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Review: Built Tough, Drives Rough

A Wrangler Rubicon the Jeep purists can be proud of.

The Jeep Wrangler is built to tackle unpaved roads for those who take their off-roading seriously. Lucky for those Jeep fans, the 2013 Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary takes things to another level, making this the most capable Rubicon model yet.

Aside from the special edition Wrangler’s 3.6L V6 making 285 hp at 6400 rpm and 260 lb-ft at 4800 rpm, the ramped-up off-road SUV adds enough extras to appease even the hardcore Wrangler fanbase.

RelatedOne Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Endless Overland Possibilities

2013 Jeep Rubicon 10th Anniversary
2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary. Photo: Russell Purcell

From the aggressive 265/70R17 BF Goodrich KM2 rubber and steel front and rear bumpers with removable end caps, to additional half inch of ride height and dual-intake power dome hood, the 10th Anniversary Wrangler gives the purist little to complain about.

The power dome hood with functional vents gives it a tougher stance, and the half-inch lift paired with the BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain tires adds real capability, not just looks.

Another cool version to check out is this Mopar-built 2015 Wrangler Rubicon Sunriser, which adds a four-inch lift kit, LED lights on the A-pillar, engine skid plate, and ‘beadlock’ wheels and tires – all in a mellow matte orange paint.

Drive Impressions

2013 Jeep Rubicon 10th Anniversary
Russell Purcell

The 2013 Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary feels every bit as tough as it looks. On pavement, the ride is predictably firm and noisy (that’s part of the Wrangler deal), but off-road is where it redeems itself. The low-range gearing, electronic lockers, and Dana 44 axles combine for serious rock-crawling confidence, while the Pentastar V6 pulls smoothly even at low revs.

2013 Jeep Rubicon 10th Anniversary
Russell Purcell

Steering still requires a bit of muscle, and the high center of gravity means body roll is always there, but on trails or deep ruts, it feels unstoppable. The clutch action on the 6-speed manual is weighty yet rewarding, while the 5-speed auto takes some of the edge off during daily drives. For a true off-roader, few SUVs this side of a modified rig feel as capable straight from the factory.

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the Rubicon 10th Anniversary keeps things rugged but adds enough touches to feel special. Red-stitched leather seats with “Rubicon 10th Anniversary” embossing break up the otherwise utilitarian cabin, while the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter add a hint of polish. Visibility is excellent, and the upright windshield and removable roof panels remind you this is still a Wrangler through and through. Storage space isn’t abundant, but everything is built to be functional — easy-to-clean surfaces, intuitive controls, and durable materials that can handle mud, sand, or snow without fuss.

Exterior Design

2013 Jeep Rubicon 10th Anniversary
Russell Purcell

The exterior upgrades are what really separate this model from standard Wranglers. The steel bumpers not only look the part but can also withstand serious hits, and the removable end caps are trail-friendly, providing better approach and departure angles. The power dome hood with functional vents gives it a tougher stance, and the half-inch lift paired with the BF Goodrich Mud-Terrain tires adds real capability, not just looks.

Jeep retained the classic proportions, including short overhangs, high ground clearance, and the unmistakable seven-slot grille. But the 10th Anniversary trim adds just enough exclusivity to make it feel collectible.

The specs on this model:

  • Rubicon trim and decals,
  • 10th anniversary badging
  • steel bumpers
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • USB
  • tire pressure monitors
  • heated seats
  • voice command
  • leather shift knob
  • dual roof package
  • trailer hitch and wiring
  • supplemental side airbags
  • air conditioning
  • touch screen navigation w/ 20GB hard drive

Full specs:

  • Type of vehicle: Four-wheel-drive, front-engine, 4-door SUV
  • Engine: 3.6L Pentastar Variable Valve Timing (VVT) V6
  • Horsepower: 285 @ 6400
  • Torque: 260 lb-ft  @ 4,800 rpm 
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual or available 5-speed automatic (optional)
  • Brakes: Four-wheel disc with ABS
  • Fuel Economy (L/100 km): City 13.4 L (21 mpg); Hwy 9.6 L (29 mpg)
  • Transfer case: NV241OR Rock-Trac (4.0:1 low range ratio)
  • Axles (f/r): Dana 44, Tru-Lok electronic locker/ Dana 44, Tru-Lok electronic locker
  • Axle ratio: 3.73:1 std w/auto, 4.10:1 std w/manual
  • Suspension (f/r): Live axle four-link w/coil springs and monotube shocks/Live axle four-link w/coil springs and monotube shocks
  • Steering: Power recirculating ball w/ damper
  • Wheels & Tires: 17×7.5 painted and polished cast aluminum; LT265/70R17 BFG Mud-Terrain KM2 T/A
  • Wheelbase (in): 95.4 (2DR), 116 (4DR)
  • Min ground clearance (in): 10.2

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