2006 Jeep Wrangler

A traditional off-roader with some fresh innovations

Steve Temple / autoMedia.com

Out of the dozens of movies that the Jeep Wrangler has appeared in, one in particular helps explain in part the popularity of this compact SUV's persistently traditional design. The film "Nothing in Common" starred Jackie Gleason in his final role, and Tom Hanks early in his career, as a father-and-son odd couple. In one memorable scene, the ad-exec character played by Hanks tries to explain to his bewildered father why he drives a Jeep even though he lives in the city: "It looks good on me."

Style

Of course, the Jeep's cheeky form actually follows the vehicle's function as an outstanding off-road rig. No, it's not a practical vehicle for an urban environment, but that doesn't seem to matter for most Jeep enthusiasts who relish its ability to conquer all sorts of nasty terrain. It may be too short, too loud, and too rough—but it's also too much fun. Maybe the Wrangler's appeal to some city folks is the mere fact the that they know it can go where most fear to tread (even if never attempted), giving it a tough, don't-mess-with-me persona.

Expanding on this theme, in recent years several variations on the Wrangler have appeared to suit different needs and tastes. The Wrangler comes in regular-length SE, X, Sport, and Rubicon trim levels, and a new elongated Unlimited model also available with the Rubicon trail-oriented package.

The SE is the only model equipped with a 147-hp 4-cylinder engine. All other Wranglers have a 190-hp, 4.0-liter, inline 6-cylinder, which is optional on the SE. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard on all models, and a 4-speed automatic is optional with the inline six. For maximum acceleration, go with the larger engine and manual tranny; the automatic tends to upshift too soon and downshift too late for optimum throttle response. And while the four is slightly smoother, the acceleration is markedly slower from a stoplight.

Power

All Wranglers have 4WD that should not be left engaged on dry pavement, and includes low-range gearing. As such, each and every Wrangler model is a dual-purpose vehicle for use both on and off pavement.