2002 Jeep Wrangler: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Jeep's tradition-bound compact SUV gains a new midlevel model that becomes the lowest-priced 6-cyl Wrangler. Wrangler is available with a soft top and plastic side windows or optional hardtop with glass windows. The base SE model has a 4-cyl engine; the new X model joins the Sport and Sahara in having a standard inline-6 cyl. Manual transmission is standard, a 3-speed automatic is optional. All Wranglers have Jeep's Command-Trac 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. ABS is available on all but the SE. A 30-inch tire package is optional on Sport and newly standard on Sahara, and the premium audio system gets front tweeters. Introduced this summer as an early 2003 entry, the Wrangler Rubicon, is a 6-cyl model intended for severe off-road use. It comes with front- and rear-locking differentials and special low-ratio gearing.

COMPETITION

Ignored in the past, compact SUVs are now some of the hottest-selling vehicles around. Though our Best Buys, the Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, and Mazda Tribute don't offer true off-road ability, they do mix ride comfort, cargo capacity, and versatility with all-weather traction. The V6 Tribute/Escape offers more power, comfort, and space than any in its class.

Another car-based mini-SUV, the Subaru Forester, is our Recommended choice. Like the CR-V it doesn't have a low range for serious off-road use, but it blends excellent on-road manners with SUV styling.