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Acceleration
"Most buyers choose a 6-cyl model; they get adequate acceleration with either
transmission, though automatic tends to upshift too soon, downshift too late
for best throttle response. Unlimited weighs 250 lb more than Sport, doesn't
feel appreciably slower. Sluggish off the line, the 4-cyl has adequate merging
and passing response, is smoother than the six."
Value
"Wrangler is an uncomfortable, unrefined throwback. All versions have outstanding
off-road ability and strong resale value, but prices are relatively steep. The
Sport model quickly tops $25,000, where Unlimited-version prices begin. Unlimiteds
add precious cargo space and slightly better on-road feel without sacrificing
off-road prowess."
Ride
"Standard 15-inch tires provide relatively compliant passage over bumps, but
absorbency suffers with larger wheel-tire combinations. Bigger issue is short
wheelbase and off-road-ready suspension: They trigger abrupt vertical motions
even on apparently smooth roads. Unlimited models' longer wheelbase improves
ride quality some."
Economy
"Wrangler is fairly heavy, certainly not aerodynamic. Test '04 6-cyl manual-transmission
Sport averaged 15.2 mpg, even in mostly highway driving. Test 6-cyl/automatic-transmission
Rubicon averaged just 13.0, Unlimited 15.0, Rubicon Unlimited just 12.0. No opportunity
to measure with 4-cyl."
Noise
"Sparse insulation. Lots of wind noise with soft top, somewhat less with hardtop,
but copious tire noise drums through. Unlimited models have extra sound deadening,
but conversation at highway speeds still requires raised voices."
Comfort - Front
"No excess elbow room. Terrific head clearance with either top. Seats firm, supportive,
but too low for shorter drivers who may have difficulty seeing over the wide,
flat hood; and there is no height adjustment. No door armrests. Entry/exit requires
big step over doorsill."
Comfort - Rear
"Two adults fit without touching shoulders, but knee room tight and seat isn't
comfortable. Unlimited leg room only marginally better. Difficult entry/exit
on all."
Controls
"Logically grouped, easy to see. Good outward vision, though plastic side and rear windows prone to scratching, clouding. Power mirrors are unavailable. Driver's elbow can hit center-console armrest when shifting manual transmission. Solid workmanship, durable materials. Soft top operation a time-consuming adventure of zippers, fasteners, struts. Unlimited's longer convertible roof even more cumbersome, though ""sunroof"" feature
a nice idea."
Cargo Room
"A few grocery bags fit behind regular-length models' back seat, which folds
or removes to create steamer-trunk space. Unlimiteds' cargo bay a useful 13 inches
longer."
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