2003 Jeep Wrangler: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Jeep's tradition-bound compact SUV gains a new engine and transmission and available 4-wheel disc brakes for 2003. Wrangler is available with a soft top and plastic side windows or an extra-cost hardtop with glass windows. The base SE model has a 4-cyl engine, which this year is a 147-hp dual-overhead-cam 2.4 liter shared with Jeep's Liberty SUV. It replaces a 120-hp overhead-valve 2.5. X, Sport, Sahara, and Rubicon models continue with a 190-hp inline-6 cyl. Manual transmission is standard. A 4-speed automatic is optional; it supplants a 3-speed automatic for '03. All Wranglers have Jeep's Command-Trac 4WD that must be disengaged on dry pavement but includes low-range gearing. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on Rubicon and optional on Sport and Sahara for '03; the SE and X stay with rear drums. ABS is available on all but the Rubicon and SE. A 30-inch tire package is standard on Sahara, optional on Sport. Rubicon is intended for severe off-road use and comes with 31-inch-equivalent off-road tires, front- and rear-locking differentials, and special low-ratio gearing. Also new for '03 are redesigned front seats, LATCH-type rear child-seat anchors, and an available rearview mirror with temperature and compass display.

COMPETITION

Though our Best Buys, 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. CR-V has a bit more on-road refinement and cargo space.

Another car-based mini-SUV, Subaru Forester is a 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. The Jeep Liberty may lack some of the advantages of more-carlike SUVs, but it leads the pack in off-road ability. It's Recommended as an affordable, capable competitor.