Jeep Wrangler reviews

2003 Jeep Wrangler Driving Impressions

We went to Moab, Utah, to drive the new Jeep Wrangler Rubicon over some of the best and most varied four-wheeling trails in America. Here, in the heart of the Colorado plateau, are thousands of miles of backcountry tracks, most left over from mining days. We motored across the mixed topography of deserts and canyons with the 13,000-foot La Sal Mountains in the backdrop. We traversed trails that ranged from a difficulty of No. 1 (unimproved or rarely graded roads that call for four-wheel drive or extra clearance in places, but require no special driving skills) to a No. 5 (locking differentials and front and rear tow hooks necessary for passage, winch recommended, expert driving skills demanded). Note: This trail rating system is different from other 4WD trail ratings in the U.S., which range from 1-10, with the Rubicon Trail rated a 10. We put the Rubicon to the test on trails such as Hell's Revenge, Cliff Hanger, Metal Masher, and Top of the World, which travel through forest, desert, steep ravines and rims, rivers, mountains, and Moab's famous slick rock.

The Wrangler Rubicon performed flawlessly in the rough and rugged. It boasts a cadre of 4WD technology that includes a transfer case designed with a 4:1 low range (the previous off-road version was 3.73:1), which delivers more power at the slow speeds required for off-road driving. Locking differentials, actuated when the driver presses a switch on the dash, prevent power from being directed away from the tires with the best grip. Dana model 44 axles, considered by enthusiasts to be the cream of the crop, come standard on the Rubicon model and are strong enough to handle all manner of off-road conditions.

We drove the new smooth-shifting automatic transmission, as well as the well-geared five-speed manual transmission, and both match up well to the inline six-cylinder engine. Jeep's inline-6 produces ample power in all conditions: 190 horses at 4600 rpm and 235 lbs.-ft. of torque at 3200 rpm.

Boasting Big Foot stature in a mini footprint, the Rubicon wears aggressive Goodyear Wrangler 31-inch tires that help it achieve more than 10 inches of ground clearance on a short (93.4-inch) wheelbase, which makes this a nimble vehicle in the backcountry. Added to that are laudable approach (45-degree), departure (34 degree), and ramp breakover (25-degree) angles. This means you can drive up, down and over steep grades, tall boulders and fallen logs with greater ease.

Off the trail, driving the Rubicon is another matter. The tall tires and off-road suspension, which add capability in the backcountry, become a liability around town. The ride is harsh and choppy. It's a tall step up to get inside and a long reach to access gear stowed in the rear seats. On the plus side, however, is a torque-sensing limited-slip feature on the rear axle for better traction on the road.

We also drove a Wrangler SE with the new 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. There's not much power here and we wouldn't want to drive all the way across the U.S. in one, but it is an appealing vehicle. The low-cut doors and soft top are cool and it's a more comfortable vehicle than before. And the low price is attractive.