LEGO Jeep Review and Guide

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LEGO published its first set based on a Jeep vehicle more than half a century ago. Since then, the brand has released only a handful of models based on UTVs produced by the legendary American automaker. In this LEGO Jeep Wrangler 42122 set review, I will take a look at all the set’s ins and outs and help you decide if it is the right choice for you.

The latest LEGO set inspired by a Jeep vehicle is far more advanced than its predecessors, but it is still relatively easy to build.

Bottom Line Up Front

In my opinion, the Jeep Wrangler 42122 set is excellent for a young LEGO fan who likes playing with cars. This set can also be a good option for adults looking to polish their skills before moving to more challenging builds from the LEGO Technic theme.

LEGO Jeep Wrangler 42122

The Nitty-Gritty of the LEGO Jeep Wrangler 42122 set

An affordable entry-level set like the Jeep Wrangler 42122 is a good introduction to the Technic theme. With 665 pieces, it is one of the theme’s smallest sets suitable for kids aged nine or older.

LEGO released this model together with a slightly larger McLaren Senna GTR 42123 set at the start of 2021, and both of these toy cars will probably be discontinued by the end of 2022.

The biggest difference between these sets is their interior because the inside of the McLaren Senna GTR 42123 is rudimentary. The Jeep Wrangler 42122 is a replica of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler equipped with aftermarket modifications like the roof rack or wench.

This model doesn’t have the built-in remote-control functionality, but you can upgrade it by adding two Powered Up motors, a battery box, a differential, beams, and gears. Our guide to the best LEGO Speed Champions sets can help you choose the best models from this theme.

Packaging and building instructions

The image of the yellow Jeep Wrangler on rocky terrain with mountaintops in the background dominates the front section of the set’s box. The basic facts about the set’s recommended age group and piece count are also included on the front end of the box.

The underside features several images of the Jeep Wrangler, and it contains information about the off-road SUV’s engine, maximum speed, and towing capacity. The box contains five bags of pieces, a sticker sheet, and a booklet with building instructions split into nearly 200 steps.

This set comes with 13 stickers that include the seat decorations, door handles, and RUBICON lettering for the hood. The booklet features only a handful of pictures of the original vehicle, and it doesn’t contain information about its history or performance capabilities.

Please browse through our guide to the best LEGO Ferrari sets for more information about models based on vehicles produced by this Italian carmaker.

A quick look at the set’s pieces

The Jeep Wrangler 42122 set comes with five tires designed for models that have 30×20 rims. Although a novelty, these tires are already featured in several LEGO sets released in 2021, including the Tractor 60287 model published in the City theme.

The 2×3 and 3×7 Technic panel is also noteworthy because it is relatively new and has only been featured in a handful of sets. The LEGO Jeep set contains both System and Technic LEGO pieces, including 28 black, 27 yellow, and 16 gray unique parts.

Most pieces come from the Technic pins, connectors, and beams categories. Also, there are only a few printed parts in the set, such as the 3×5 lift-arm, while several axles and pin connectors are available in unique colors.

Check out our guide to the best LEGO Chevrolet sets to learn more about LEGO Technic and Speed Champions models inspired by these vintage cars.

Construction process

The set’s low piece count can be misleading because it indicates that building this set is easy. However, the bags are marked with one and two numbers, so you’ll have to search for the pieces you need to complete each of the 190 steps included in the building instructions.

The assembly process starts with putting together the vehicle’s frame. The Jeep Wrangler model doesn’t have an engine and gearbox with moving pieces which simplifies this stage of the construction process. While constructing the frame, you’ll also assemble the off-roader’s seats, suspension, and steering system.

The bags marked with the number one contain the pieces for the front and rear axles, the engine section, and the grille element with translucent pieces that double as headlights. The engine section includes two unique flat panel pieces.

The front axle moves freely, allowing the toy to adjust to different terrains, while the rear suspension features spring elements that enable the toy to bounce while moving over uneven surfaces.

The second stage of the assembly process is straightforward since you’ll only have to attach the hood, doors and build the roof. You’ll also have to assemble the wench and roof rack elements, apply stickers and attach the fifth tire to the spare tire mount to complete the assembly process.

Please go through our guide to the best LEGO trucks to discover some of the best models featuring different types of trucks.

A view of the finished model

Opening hood and doors are some of the first eye-catching details you’ll notice on the assembled toy. The Jeep Wrangler replica is 9.5 inches long, 4.5 inches tall, and 5 inches wide. Although relatively spacious, the interior doesn’t contain a ton of detail.

Folding rear seats can free up some space if necessary, but you still won’t be able to place a Minifigure behind the adjustable steering wheel. A sticker replaces the toy car’s dashboard, air vents, and instrument panel.

The steering knob used to control the vehicle is located on the roof, but the toy’s turning radius is limited to just 25 inches, making it difficult to take sharp turns. Riding the toy over bumpy terrains is easy because the flexible axles and spring elements keep it level at all times.

The winch element is located on the front bumper. It features a small hook that enables you to connect the winch to objects you’d like to tow. Jeep Wrangler’s most striking feature is its bumble-yellow color, which makes this replica even more realistic.

Please read our guide to the best LEGO monster trucks if you’re looking for a fun, simple, and affordable Technic set.

LEGO Technic Jeep Wrangler 42122

Set’s playability

The range of play options the Jeep Wrangler 42122 set offers is limited at best. Like all models released in the Technic theme, this set doesn’t contain accessories or Minifigures kids can use to develop different play scenarios.

Combining this model with other LEGO Technic sets with similar piece counts will improve its playability, although not by much.

The Jeep Wrangler 42122 isn’t among the most impressive display sets in this theme since more complex models like the 6×6 Articulated Hauler 42114 or 4×4 Mercedes-Benz Zetros Trial Truck 42129 look much better on a display shelf.

These sets have the remote control function that adds to their playability, but they’re also considerably more expensive than the Jeep Wrangler 42122 set.

This model can be a good choice for children interested in 4×4 vehicles or older LEGO fans who still don’t feel confident constructing complex Technic sets. Please browse through our guide to the best LEGO fire trucks if you’re looking for a set that offers a variety of play options.

Value and price

The Jeep Wrangler 42122 costs around $50, but online retailers often offer this set at a discounted price, and you may be able to get it for less than $40. Similarly priced models like Formula E Porsche 99X Electric 42137 or Ford Mustang Shelby 42138 have lower piece counts than the LEGO Jeep set.

You’ll get good value for money if you opt for this Technic model despite its limited playability. LEGO will retire this model by the end of 2022, and its value will likely double in the next few years.

This set is collectible, and investing in it at its current market value can turn out to be an excellent long-term decision. Please read our guide to the most expensive LEGO sets to discover models that will become more valuable as time passes.

See also: Best LEGO R2-D2 Guide

Pros and Cons of the Jeep Wrangler 42122 set

Pros

  • The construction process lasts around 100 minutes
  • A flexible front axle allows the toy to adjust to a bumpy surface
  • It contains authentic details
  • The building instructions are available in the digital format
  • The steering knob makes controlling the vehicle easy
  • An affordable price

Cons

  • Sorting out the pieces is challenging
  • The toy’s turning radius is limited to 25 inches
  • The set’s playability could be improved

The Best Alternatives to the Jeep Wrangler 42122 set

You won’t find a lot of substitutes for this off-road vehicle in its price range, and you’ll have to spend more than $50 to get a set that lets you construct a display model of an off-road vehicle.

These sets usually have more pieces than the Jeep Wrangler 42122, and assembling them requires more time and skill. I’ve selected several alternatives to this set from different price tiers so that you can choose the option that fits your budget.

All-Terrain-Vehicle 42139

All-Terrain-Vehicle 42139

The All-Terrain-Vehicle 42139’s price can seem steep considering it has just 99 pieces more than the LEGO Jeep model. In addition, the set is recommended for children aged ten or older, but a nine-year-old with previous set-building experience can assemble it effortlessly.

However, a closer look at its features reveals that the set offers plenty of value for the money. This set has the chainsaw accessory and twenty log elements you can combine to build large logs. The toy is equipped with an engine with moving pistons and a 2-shift gearbox.

The ATV has a tipping cargo bed that makes unloading the toy easy and a winch that allows kids to tow different objects.

John Deere 9620R 4WD Tractor 42136

LEGO Technic John Deere 9620R 4WD Tractor

You should consider an entry-level model like the John Deere 9620R 4WD Tractor 42136 if you’re searching for an affordable Technic set for a first-time LEGO builder. This model was developed in collaboration with the manufacturer of the original 4WD tractor.

So despite having just 390 pieces, the toy is stacked with authentic features like the tipping trailer, a rotating seat in the cabin, and large tractor tires. The articulated steering system that mimics the movements of a real tractor gives children complete control of the vehicle.

Combining this set with Technic models like Telehandler 42133 or Skid Steer Loader 42116 can provide children with a unique construction site experience.

Land Rover Defender 42110

Land Rover Defender 42110

A skilled 11-year-old can assemble the Land Rover Defender 42110, but the assembly process is lengthy since the set has more than 2,500 pieces. The replica of one of the Land Rover’s most recognizable models is 16 inches long and 8 inches tall.

The toy car has a 6-cylinder engine with moving pistons, a 4-speed sequential gearbox concealed under forward-folding seats, a transmission system, suspension on both axles, and All-Wheel Drive with three differentials.

The functioning wheel, dashboard, traction mats, and winch are among the details that make this Land Rover Defender replica even more realistic. This LEGO Technic set was released in 2019, and LEGO could discontinue it soon.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Jeep Wrangler 42122 set

Question: Does LEGO Technic theme feature other models inspired by Jeep vehicles?

Answer: The Jeep Wrangler 42122 is the first set inspired by a Jeep vehicle LEGO released in more than a decade, and it is currently the only active set featuring an ATV produced by this car brand.

Question: How to access the digital building instructions for the Jeep Wrangler 42122 set?

Answer: You have to scan the QR code included in the booklet to view the digital version of the instructions in the LEGO Building Instructions app.

Question: Is the LEGO Jeep toy stable?

Answer: Yes, it is, and it won’t come apart if you play with it, but the toy will collapse if you apply too much pressure.

Question: Does the Jeep Wrangler 42122 set contain extra pieces?

Answer: Yes, this set has eight spare parts.

Final Thoughts

The Jeep Wrangler 42122 is far from being the most impressive LEGO Technic set because there are so many models that can offer a more rewarding construction experience and a wider range of play options.

Despite this, I still think that this model has a lot to offer to young and adult LEGO fans. Building this replica of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler stacked with authentic features is a fun process that won’t take more than two hours.

Upon completion, you’ll get a toy you can put on display in your living room or use to imagine off-road adventures. Was this LEGO Jeep review useful? Let me know in the comments, or continue reading our guide to the best LEGO sets under $50 to learn more about the best-selling models in this price range.

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