2009 Jeep Wrangler: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Jeep Wrangler is largely unchanged. This off-road-ready SUV is offered in 2-door or Unlimited 4-door form. Trim levels include X, Sahara, and Rubicon. All Wranglers are available with a folding soft top or a removable hardtop. All have a 3.8-liter V6 engine. Two-door Wranglers have 202 hp; Unlimiteds have 205. Manual or automatic transmission is available. The 2-door models are 4-wheel drive only. Unlimiteds come with rear drive or 4WD. Wrangler's 4WD system should not be left engaged on dry pavement but includes a low-range gear for off-roading. Maximum towing capacity is 2000 lb on the 2-door, 3500 lb on the Unlimited. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and front side airbags. For severe off-road use, Wrangler can be equipped with an electronic-disconnecting front stabilizer bar, locking differentials, and specific tires. For 2009, Wrangler adds Jeep's Trailer-Sway Control, which activates the antiskid system if it detects a towed trailer is not following its intended path.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Among utility vehicles, Compact SUVs are typically the least costly and offer the best fuel economy. Most utilize a car-type chassis and are not designed for heavy-duty, off-road use. Nearly all are five-passenger vehicles; some offer seating for seven.

Our Best Buys are the Honda CR-V, Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Volkswagen Tiguan. Our Recommended picks are the Saturn Vue and Toyota RAV4.

New or significantly redesigned models include the GMC Terrain, Subaru Forester, and Volkswagen Tiguan.