1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler: Road Test

Updated: 11/23/08

1997 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
2006 Jeep Wrangler
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1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler 

  • Price Range:  $3,400 - $16,600
CG Rating

31

out of 100

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Our road test for the 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1997-2006 Jeep Wrangler is right for you.

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

Wranglers really are more carlike than before--far better in ride quality and ergonomics. Occupant comfort is vastly improved, though few would call the Wrangler experience comfortable. The new suspension is a lot more absorbent, true, but it still reacts abruptly to dips and bumps. Unless the pavement really gets nasty, though, the ride isn't jarring. Original 4-cylinder Wrangler with manual shift has trouble merging or overtaking fast-moving freeway traffic. Performance in a 5-speed Wrangler with the 6-cylinder engine gets reasonably vigorous--though accompanied by considerable engine and gear noise. New 4 cyl is more refined than the 6 cyl, and though it's somewhat sluggish away from a stop, it has adequate merging and passing response. Fuel economy is tolerable, but no bonus. A 5-speed Sahara with the 6-cylinder engine averaged 19.3 mpg. Wind noise is abundant where the roof meets the windshield frame. Doors seal poorly too, with the canvas top in place. That canvas top also flutters, while the optional hardtop "drums" at highway speeds. Taking the top up and down is easier than before, but still a frustrating chore. Full instruments now are clustered in front of the driver, not spread out as in prior Wranglers. Two adults now fit in back without squeezing, but the cushion and backrest are hard and short. Interior storage is better than in earlier Wranglers. Space behind the back seat is modest.
Value for the Money
True Wrangler fans don't fret about its flaws. For other potential owners, the great strides made in safety, ride quality, and refinement in this generation bring Wrangler closer than before to serving as an everyday vehicle.
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Expert Ratings Summary

Category Jeep Wrangler Sahara 6-cylinder Rating
Performance 4
Fuel Economy 4
Ride Quality 1
Steering/Handling/Braking 3
Quietness 1
Controls/Materials 3
Interior Room 4
Room/Comfort (rear) 2
Cargo Capacity 6
Value within Class 3
Total Score: 31

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.

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