Affordable off-road fun in 2009 Jeep Wrangler X
Published Thursday November 27th, 2008
One doesn't generally imagine that much fun can be had in a twenty-thousand dollar vehicle- but Jeep is determined to continue changing that perception. Their Wrangler doesn't try to blow anyone's socks off with refinement, comfort or spaciousness- but it is the most affordable off-road adventure machine on the market.
Even in its most basic "X" trim with no options, Wrangler represents tremendous value for the fun-loving and active buyer. Nothing in the price range turns heads as well- and for as many good reasons. Fog-lamps and alloy wheels were bolted to our tester, as well as beefy bumpers with tow-hooks for easy rescue duty.
Painted in 'Sunburst Orange', the tall body, rugged proportions and trademark front end collected looks from passersby and elicited the Jeep "wave" from other owners on the road.
Inside was a CD player, cruise control, leather steering wheel, comprehensive trip computer with compass, and a commanding view of the road for driver and passenger. The rear seat is best left for smaller-than-average occupants, though it flips and folds out of the way quickly to increase available storage. Getting in and out of the back is a bit of a chore, though a four-door Wrangler "Unlimited" is available.
Manual locks, manual windows, manual mirrors and manual climate control were employed, and the interior came trimmed with basic but easy-to-clean plastics. Instruments are readily visible, and controls are all simple to operate. Front and rear cupholders, small door-mounted storage compartments and a lockable centre-console were present as well.
Wrangler's cabin doesn't set any standards in materials selection or noise levels, but it does feel sturdy and fairly well put together.
Powering all models is a 3.8 litre V6 which sends 202 horsepower to a 4x4 transfer case via a four-speed automatic or six-speed manual gearbox. The latter has a long throw, but shifting is a pleasure with a smooth lever action and light clutch feel. The engine makes scarcely a peep and proves surprisingly quiet and refined for its application. Mileage averaged about 13L / 100km.
The hardware that makes Wrangler so adept in off-road situations has a few negative effects on the highway. The short wheelbase, high ride, and body-on-frame construction creates a jiggly and nervous character over bumpy surfaces. Additionally, the front wheels are connected via a solid front axle, so there's little precision and sharpness to the steering. The whole setup is tough as nails- though the ride may take some first-time Jeepers a bit of getting used to.
Wrangler is easy to park, and steers on a dime- though rearward visibility is limited. The above are minor issues- and redemption comes twofold when the road gives way to dirt and mud.
Wrangler's rock-solid underside and low-range transfer case enable crawling, climbing and mud-flinging with confidence where lesser cute-utes dare not tread.
Four wheel drive is activated by a quick tug on a lever, and the stability control can be disengaged when wheelspin is required to free oneself from a mud-rut or deep sand. Should that not work, have a fellow Jeeper tie onto one of your tow-hooks for a swift tug out. Ground clearance wasn't an issue on my watch- even with the suspension flexed out on tricky cambers or while teetering over the tops of steep hills.
Should you become a Wrangler owner, feel free to head out for a Saturday afternoon mud-run with your local Jeep club. You'll leave grinning at the machine's ability to cross water, navigate steep grades and fling turf into rooster-tails. Afterwards, head to the coin-wash with a roll of loonies, then meet your new buddies for hours of storytelling in the coffee-shop parking lot.
With the automatic entry to an exclusive owner's community comes wintertime capability, camp and cottage readiness, and the ability to tow a small trailer. Wrangler's also the least expensive convertible on the road too- with a standard soft-top that peels away for open-air motoring.
For active and outdoorsy types, it delivers bang for the buck that's right off the charts.
Disabled
Search Articles
More CE Network Sites & Partners:
