As American as apple pie, the Jeep Wrangler is a national treasure among off-roaders in the States, but this side of the pond its appeal has always been limited. In summer 2007 Jeep hoped to change that with the introduction of an all-new model.
Roomier and more powerful, the new vehicle upped the Wrangler’s game, but in order to succeed it had to offer something special. And it did. More than almost any other vehicle, the Wrangler is more at home on the rough stuff than on the black top.
Built using a separate body and chassis, it is a curious mixture of precision components and pig iron. So, although in some respects it is as sophisticated as a spoon, that’s a good thing: anything you can’t fix with a hammer when in the wilderness is so much scrap metal.
New prices were never high but an entry-level, shorter-wheelbase, two-door example on a 2007 07 plate can be yours for about £10,000, and despite the absence of such comforts as air-conditioning, it still cuts something of a dash. The four-door model commands a premium of some £1,000. Not only does it boast increased luggage capacity (up from 142 litres to 490 litres with the rear seats in place) but towing capacity jumps up from 2,000kg to 3,500kg.
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Buyers of second-hand four-door models have no choice of engine; the only one available is the 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel producing 174bhp. Two-door buyers can choose the diesel or a lusty 3.8-litre V6 petrol unit with 196bhp. In addition to the extra power, the 3.8-litre has a pretty comprehensive list of standard equipment, including 18in alloy wheels and an alarm system.
The Wrangler was engineered to live in the rocky lane. Its short overhangs and massive suspension articulation give it the rock-crawling capabilities of a mountain goat. On the road it’s a different story, the deep tyre walls and softish suspension making for a less than taut driving experience. Rear passengers may feel cramped in two-door models, and the lowish roofline can create a sense of claustrophobia.
The good news is that all Wrangler models can be stripped back for open-top motoring. Not only does the roof come off, but the doors too, and even the windscreen can be folded flat.
When buying a second-hand Wrangler, look for one that is more familiar with tarmac than boulders, but don’t discount an off-road veteran, as the car is designed to handle such abuse, and those that have will almost certainly have been properly maintained.
Owner's view
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“My Wrangler is cheaper than a Freelander, well equipped, but not comfy on long journeys.” Simon Green, Oldham
Need to know
Gearbox Six-speed manual gearbox standard on diesel, five-speed auto optional. Petrol models have a four-speed auto
Interior Removable carpets and drain plugs let you wash the cabin after muddy action
Open roof Three-piece roof of four-door can be awkward to remove and store
Steering Check for judder under hard braking, caused by worn front brake discs
Stereo All models have waterproof speakers; some have hard drive for MP3 storage
Tyres Check for tyre-wall damage or uneven wear due to kerbing
Upholstery Wrangler upholstery takes heavy-duty wear, but check for tears or burns
Vital statistics
Model Two-door 2.8 CRD Sport
Engine 2777cc, four cylinders
Power 174bhp
Transmission Six-speed manual
Fuel 33.6mpg (combined)
Acceleration 0-62mph: 11.2sec
Top Speed 112mph
CO2 emissions 223g/km
Road tax Band K (£215 a year)
Cost new now £18,600
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The one to buy
A two-door Jeep Wrangler 2.8 CRD Sport manual, registered 2007 07 with 20,000 miles. Pay £10,795 at a dealer or £9,800 privately
Or for similar money
2002 52 Mercedes-Benz ML 270 CDI
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2006 55 Nissan X-Trail 2.2 dCi Sport (five-door)
2006 06 Land Rover Freelander 2.0 Td4 HSE Softback
2007 56 SsangYong Rexton 270 SE