I think you underestimate the number of off roaders who want absolute bare bones. Whether it's because they feel it's more rugged, has less to go wrong, or just want the most basic of features, there are a whole bunch of them out there. I think it would be stupid on Jeeps part to become more like the Bronco in an attempt to compete. As of now, those bare bones buyers only have 1 option. Making the base identical to the Bronco would drive more buyers away than it would draw in.
On the contrary, I think you may over estimate how much the bare bones buyers impact the decisions of a multi-billion dollar global company. I think Jeep keeps the Sport more for the Wrangler’s branding than the actual sales demand or the profit stream from those buyers.
If the branding gets them into the Jeep dealer over the Ford dealer, doesn't it benefit Jeep even more if they end up buying a Sport s, Sahara, or Rubicon? The illusion of basic and utilitarian holds value, even if buyers realize, especially a 4 door, shouldn't have manual locks.
That’s a big if, but absolutely. It would surprise me one bit if the true base Sport is essentially a loss leader.
I have asked a couple dealers what they sell most of. They all said the Sport model - whether it's people wanting to get a Jeep at the cheap, or simply because the real hard core off road guys are simply going to mod the heck of them with more rugged stuff than what the Rubicon already comes with anyway. The axles, lockers, bumpers, lifts, tires/wheels, etc....
Ugh. No manual transmission available.
Agreed. It should have a rear locker. But it isn't "wasted". The willys sport is a great "budget" package. The Willys is a better value than a Sport S similarly optioned.
An option for the Sport S to have the LSD would fill yet another gap.
