2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara review from North America

Since some folks seemed to believe one of the last reviews was possibly some sort of sales pitch I figured I'd post about my Jeep Unlimited Sahara.

Let me start by saying that I have a 1997 Wrangler Sport and I love that Jeep. I went out to test drive the new Wranglers when they came out and I have to say I wasn't impressed, in fact, I was disappointed. There were many reasons I personally didn't like it, it was mainly because it was nothing like my 1997. I couldn't hear the engine, they got rid of the 4.0L and put in what I feel is a less responsive engine, the throttle is now electronically controlled and is no longer a cable system, just to name a few things. It lacks the feel of any older model. I realize these things are considered "improvements" but to an old Jeep owner they personally turned me off.

A few months after my test drive, the wife decides she wants a 4X4 too so we go looking for something for her. After looking around for a while I suggested she test drive a new Jeep, since she was never a Jeep owner, just an occasional driver of mine. Well she loved the way it drove and she decided to get one.

I drive it every now and then and I have to admit that it has grown on me a bit. I'll list some other things now that I've had a chance to drive it and give it a better assessment.

1. It's a nice ride for a Wrangler.

2. The premium stereo system is decent, but not all that important when you have the top off anyway.

3. The Freedom hardtop is nice with the option to only remove the panels above the driver and passenger. Ours hasn't leaked yet, but I suspect it may be a problem down the road, time will tell.

4. The 4 door is a great option for those who have kids and still want the fun of owning a Wrangler. You won't fit a 260 pound man comfortably in the back seat, or through the door even, but an average size adult will fit comfortably.

5. The doors are a little harder to get in because they don't open as wide as the used to in an older model. Chrysler should fix this small thing.

6. With the 18" rims it sits well and looks good, although it's a little less comfortable to climb in and out of because of the height and because of #5 above. Jeep did a nice job with the styling.

7. The addition of factory driving lights is a pure plus, you can see everything now, the lights are very bright.

8. A Wrangler isn't for everyone, but they've made solid 4X4's for a while now. This one appears to be no exception, it's well built.

9. If you're looking for the comfort of other luxury four wheel drives you won't find it here, although Chrysler has improved the comfort of the ride a lot.

10. Don't buy one if you're afraid to get it a little dirty or take the top off, you'll probably be disappointed.

11. Wranglers have a lot of accessory options, if you like customizing a vehicle then you would probably enjoy owning one.

12. People in the newer Wranglers don't wave as much as the old Wrangler owners do, if you read this and fit the bill, please make sure you wave... It's a Jeep Thing. :)

The new Wrangler seems to target the 30 something crowd. I'm beginning to like the new Wrangler for what it is and not what it used to be, but I'm still very glad I own my old one and I'll most likely buy another 4.0L if this one ever dies, hopefully a Rubicon.

That's about as honest as I can be, thanks for reading.