2007 Jeep Wrangler [ 2008 ]
Jeep Wrangler
Overall Score - 7.2 (Good)
The Wrangler offers incredibly capable off-road performance, but compromises on-road handling and comfort in order to maximize off-road prowess. If you're in the market for an affordable compact SUV and want to stand out with distinctive and rugged styling, you might also consider the Toyota FJ Cruiser, Nissan Xterra and Honda Element.
The 2007 Jeep Wrangler is a rugged SUV designed to be most comfortable off the pavement. The Jeep's strengths are its off-road performance elements, but they also "constitute [the Wrangler's] primary weaknesses in routine city-suburban commuting, where it is least efficient, least comfortable, and generally less than enjoyable," explains the Washington Post. To some buyers, none of these complaints will matter. As U.S. News reviewer Rick Newman explains, "People put up with it, because Jeeps represent freedom and nonconformity. In a Jeep, you're not like other people."
For 2007, Jeep added a four-door model, the Wrangler Unlimited, which is significantly larger than the two-door version and competes with rugged midsize options including the Toyota FJ Cruiser and Hummer H3. Both the two-door and four-door Wranglers come in three trim levels: the basic X, the reasonably well-equipped Sahara and the top-of-the-line Rubicon.
While a simple two-door X model offers outstanding off-road capability for a relatively low base price, a thoroughly equipped four-door Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon can cost as much as an entry-level luxury car. With this in mind, The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel speaks for most reviewers in advising buyers, "If you're an off-roader ... stick with the basic Unlimited X model. It ... makes for economical mud-thumping." IntelliChoice has rated all versions of the 2007 Wrangler as "poor" values based on high fuel costs, high projected repair and maintenance costs, and high depreciation compared to other vehicles in its class.
Wrangler Performance - 7.1 (Good)
Reviewers find that the redesign of the Wrangler for 2007 offers improved performance in every way over previous generations, but the focus on off-road performance leaves the vehicle less-than-practical as a daily driver. As Automotive.com says, "We can't forget that most of the Wrangler's wrongs are necessary to make other things right ... Of the 77 vehicles calling themselves 'SUV', try finding even one that the Wrangler won't walk all over when the pavement ends." continue
Wrangler Exterior - 7.7 (Good)
The redesign for the 2007 Jeep Wrangler includes the first four-door Wrangler, and even the two-door models are the largest ever built. But designers have been "careful to keep classic Wrangler cues, such as a fold-down windshield, removable doors, and exposed hinges," explains the Detroit Free Press. continue
Wrangler Interior - 6.1 (Mediocre)
Reviewers find the five-seat interior of the 2007 Jeep Wrangler to be improved over previous generation Wrangler interiors, but still not competitive with others in its class. "The Wrangler disappoints due to small cupholders, a lack of storage space, characterless analog gauges, cheap-feeling climate-control knobs and plenty of budget-themed plastic on the dash and doors," says Edmunds. continue
Wrangler Safety - NA
Jeep has provided a number of accident avoidance features as standard equipment on all 2007 Wranglers, such as stability control, antilock brakes with Brake Assist and traction control. In frontal crash tests performed by the federal government, the Wrangler showed significant improvement over past years, scoring a perfect five stars for protecting both front-seat passengers. continue
Wrangler Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2007 Jeep Wrangler reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Jeep offers a basic limited warranty covering the first three years or 36,000 miles of ownership. continue
