24th Jul 2007, 03:09

Sounds like another jeep owner buying one for either status or "thinking" they will go offroad. If you want status get a Hummer, if you want a real rugged offroad vehicle get a Wrangler. People complain about comfort and room and gas mileage, all while driving a special use vehicle that is shaped like a brick with a tent or shell on top of it. Get a Toyota or something else if you want "class leading" features, and get the heated seats while you're at it.

24th Jul 2007, 15:50

I agree with July 24th.

For several years, I wanted a Wrangler in the worst way, because I considered it the most capable 4x4 to replace my Ramcharger as an off-road vehicle.

I had saved up the cash to buy a new Wrangler X, and was even toying with buying a Rubicon. Then, I realized that I really had no need for an off-road vehicle anymore, because that phase of my career is over.

Plus, I drove my grandfather's Wrangler Sahara, which is really nice, and realized for myself what everybody says --- this is an off-road capable, utility vehicle. It is not a commuting vehicle, or a long distance vacation vehicle.

It is hard to get in and out of, the visibility out the front window is poor, there is no storage space, and with the rag top there is no way to safely leave it in an airport parking lot or at a trailhead for a week.

I have total respect for the Wrangler as an off-road vehicle, and I would still buy one if I had a need for one. But I realized that my needs are for something to take on the occasional National Forest Service road when I go hiking and camping, and something that gets decent mileage and is comfortable on long drives. That is not a Wrangler/Rubicon.

I bought something else rather than buying into the fantasy like these other "Jeep posers". Buy the vehicle that suits your needs.

9th Aug 2008, 19:58

As a long-time Jeep owner, I think too many people buy a Wrangler for the wrong reasons and have unrealistic expectations of what the vehicle is.

First, the Wrangler is not meant to be a mini-van or family SUV. It's not a sports car, touring car, or substitute for a Lexus. It is not the ideal commuter vehicle, as the Wrangler is rough riding, noisy, cramped, and bad on gas.

The soft-top takes time to put up & down with its combination of snaps, zippers & velcro fasteners. (this task can be very rough on the fingers especially on a cool day).

That being said, the Wrangler is a highly capable off-road vehicle, which is also a fun run-about in the city, in the suburbs, and anywhere where the roads are bad, and the weather is worse. It is ideal for parking in tight spots.

There really is no vehicle that I know of that is so versatile in that it makes for a great winter vehicle here in New England, and a fun summer vehicle - top down if you so desire!

It's great for running errands, whether in the middle of a snow storm or on a warm summer's night.

As for the small back seat - it is perfect for my daughter's baby seat, and it does fold to give you more cargo space when you need it.

The problem is that some people buy a Wrangler for the wrong reasons - whether it be image, or thinking it is a suitable substitute for the primary family vehicle.

It can be a great vehicle for a college student, easy to park, good in the snow and fun. But as I stated earlier, it should never be confused with a mini-van, or a family SUV.

I've owned a number of Jeeps over the years, YJ's, TJ's, even a Liberty. My personal favorite is the Wrangler YJ. In fact I currently own a 1995 Wrangler YJ -Yes it rides like an ox cart, is noisy and gets lousy MPGs.

But it is very durable, reliable, and versatile.

If I only owned one vehicle, the Wrangler might not be the most practical choice, but as a second vehicle, few could do so many things so well.

To sum it up - before you buy a Wrangler - make sure it is the right vehicle for your needs, if it is, you will love it!

13th Dec 2008, 07:47

To 7th of May: The experience you had isn't due to any flaw in the vehicle. End to end stability is a function largely of width vs. length of a vehicle. A friend had a similar experience on ice. A longer vehicle is just more stable. You may ask, then, why Jeeps aren't longer (in standard guise). The reason for this has to do with off-road maneuverability. As others have posted, Wranglers are more focused on off-roading than any other vehicle on the market. Thus their on road manners tend to suffer. Still, though, I'd check out the brakes on the Jeep you had trouble with.

Another point; new Jeeps (07 and newer) come with stability control, roll control, and ABS. This combo much improves the on road stability issue. For owners of TJs, I'd say to just be aware of the vehicle's on road limitations. This is particularly true of non-unlimited models and older YJs and CJs.