No matter how 2011 treated us, as drivers and as people, we all have plenty of expectations for 2012. Whether they're concerns about the potential demise of the world as we know it in December or your run-of-the-mill resolutions for the new year, 2012 is going to be an exciting 365 days.
More exiting for some than others, though. Jeep Skokie drivers, for one, are anxious to see where the next year goes. On top of the advancements they've already seen from their beloved Wranglers, drivers can be on the lookout for one more: the 2012 Jeep Wrangler may be named sport/utility vehicle of the year. Motor Trend announced the nomination last week and Jeep drivers are already talking about the possibility of a win.
Recent improvements to the vehicle set it apart as a car to watch, test drive and buy in the upcoming year, and while a Motor Trend award wouldn't be the only evidence, it certainly wouldn't help. Of course, Northfield used Jeep Wrangler drivers are missing out on one important improvement to the 2012 model. Next year's models will run on Chrysler's 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine. That means they'll have 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. of torque on hand, and with capabilities like that, drivers can hit 60 miles per hour from stop in three seconds less than in the Wrangler's typical 3.8-liter engine.
While the Wrangler is more refined in 2012 - enjoying a polished cabin with less noise, higher-quality materials and a fashionable exterior - than any that came before it, this vehicle is still fit for the original purposes of the Northfield used Jeep Wranglers that are already on the road. That is, off-roading and trail-riding are still as important to the Wrangler as ever.
Other contenders for sport/utility vehicle of the year include the BMW X3, Saab 9-4X, Dodge Durango and Journey, Ford Explorer and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. Jeep Skokie drivers will have to wait until Oct. 25 to see whether the 2012 Wrangler has won the title of sport/utility vehicle of the year, but their votes are already in, and they're unanimous: next year will belong to the Jeep Wrangler.