Most Popular Off-Roader Just Got Better

Jeep Wrangler? Yes, you read that right. DaimlerChrysler Canada
The all-new Wrangler, making its debut at this year's NAIAS in Detroit. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)
has worked out a deal with General Motors of Canada, which previously owned the rights to the Wrangler nameplate north of the forty-ninth, and now all the high-profile advertising that regularly bleeds into our country via cable TV stations south of the border, touting the Wrangler as the ultimate 4x4 (not the TJ as it has been called here), won't go to waste. And that's a good thing for DaimlerChrysler Canada, considering its Jeep brand will be looking for all the help it can get in order to spread news that it's all-new 2007 Wrangler is better than ever.

Certainly
The plate glass windows of Cobo Hall couldn't contain the Wrangler from its true destiny... (Photo: Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
it's more refined, expected of any redesigned vehicle when compared to its predecessor, but while smoothing out some of the TJ's rough edges the iconic off-roader is still every bit as capable when pavement turns to rocks, sand and/or mud; or, as with its North American International Auto Show debut in Detroit, escaping from an onstage cage, driving through auto show aisles, breaking through one of Cobo Hall's "plate glass" windows and then climbing down a flight of stairs before marching up Washington Avenue and then charging up the side of "Jeep Mountain" just outside of Detroit's Pontchartrain Hotel.

"Jeep is the 'go anywhere, do anything' brand, and the all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler demonstrated that right out of the gate today," commented Jeff Bell, Vice President - Jeep, Chrysler Group. "Simply put, it is the best Jeep Wrangler ever. No vehicle in the world offers more off-road capability. Our all-new Jeep Wrangler offers more on-road refinement, space, comfort, open-air options, power, torque, safety and convenience."

I'm sure that the good folks I met during Jeep Jamboree last year,
....which is a makeshift mountain right outside of the Pontchartrain Hotel. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
who teased me relentlessly as I took to the mountain in an independently-front-sprung Liberty, will have collectively exhaled sighs of relief when news came that the neo-classic 4x4 will not only offer such long-anticipated upgrades in its renewed state, but that it will also once again be sold with solid axles at both ends. For those wanting the Jeep image tailored for the street, yes the lightweights that regularly complain that the Wrangler's ride is too rough for daily use, go buy a Compass or Patriot and leave the "real" Jeeps to rough-and-ready, hairy-chested men - and women.

Actually,
New Wrangler should appeal to the Jamboree types quite nicely. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)
I was surprised at the diversity of Jeep's fan base, or at least those attending the Jamboree. While more parts male than female, the women I met were at least as devoted, with CJs, YJs and TJs similarly optioned-out to the guys' machines. I also witnessed a refreshing socio-economic mix at the event, with obvious variances in income level, even more obvious style and taste differences, plus dynamic cultural backgrounds. In other words, Jeep owners cover almost every demographic and are brought together by one common element, their love for all things Jeep.


It makes sense then, that Jeep experiences a similar customer profile
All the details have stayed put; they include the round lamps, seven-slot grille and separate fenders. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
on the dealership showroom floor, pulling in new Wrangler buyers that range from urban trendsetters to burly adventurers, and all should be pleased with the 2007 model's updates. Most noticeable is the redesigned grille and front fascia, still sporting twin circular headlamps up top and six vertical slats separating seven slots in between, the entire façade is now canted rearward at a "wind-cheating" angle while the turn signals have been pulled inward, off of the front fenders and onto to the grille panel, just as they were in days of yore. Those fenders are now more suited to roughing it, not only because most of the electrics are inboard to minimize repair costs (only a tiny side marker remains) if hit by a wayward tree, but also because their matte black finish is less expensive to fix or replace once torn off.

The front bumper is finished in matte black too, and more streamlined compared to the rudimentary chunk of steal and plastic that used to hang under the grille. The NAIAS show vehicle boasted a set of fog lamps integrated at centre, a nice touch stylistically as well as handy when off the beaten path.

Moving
You can still fold down the windshield and have your Wrangler with frameless zip-up doors, if you wish. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
towards the back, purists will delight that the Wrangler's new flush-mounted windshield can still be folded forward and strapped onto the hood; held up with little rubber stoppers to protect the glass when bushwhacking. Overall, the Wrangler's profile looks much the same as its predecessor, other than the lack of a creased shoulder line that previously ran frontward through the door panel, larger exposed forged hinges, the aforementioned new fender flares (still trapezoid in shape mind you), full-length matte black rocker covers, redesigned "sport bar" roll cage, and new door pulls ahead of Liberty-like hemispherical hand indents. OK, it's changed quite a bit, but its updates are even more noticeable in the rear.

The tail lamps are still external units, true to Jeep tradition and easy
In good form, the Wrangler is built to be durable, and easily fixable. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
to replace if smashed or knocked off (although easier to smash or knock off due to being external and protruding out from their rear corners), but now they're vertical in design; tall rectangles instead of simple squares. It's amazing how such a minor change can appear so significant, but when combined with a new rear door handle that is nothing more than a side door pull and button placed vertically on the tailgate, boldly designed rear door hinges it looks totally revamped. And if capped off with a hardtop the Wrangler gets a much more rectangular overall shape, for an even more radical departure.

The
Interior is nicer than ever, with many new features, and a more organized centre stack. (Photo: Justin Couture, Canadian Auto Press)
modifications inside are even more obvious, starting with a completely revised dash and centre stack. The old TJ's user interface had already improved dramatically when compared to those in YJ and CJ interiors, but Jeep has stepped up style, functionality and quality for 2007. A sportier four-spoke steering wheel frames a more organically shaped instrument binnacle; the previous unit was rectangular. The only rectangular object in the new Wrangler is its new audio head unit, being that circular HVAC knobs and vents plus a rounded dash continue the shapely theme forward; that dash capped off with two equally round smart fortwo-like stereo speakers that protrude out from the dash-top like a set of scale model mountain-top observatories.


These are the wackiest elements in what is more or less a fairly
Standard, supportive seats are trimmed in an anti-microbial, soil-repellant material. So, yeah, go ahead and get dirty. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
utilitarian cabin, although the new front seats appear much more upscale than those in the outgoing model. New YES Essentials woven fabric (according to DCX an "an easy-care, soil-repellant and anti-microbial textile that protects seats from stains, odors and discoloration") is stylish and looks durable, while their side bolstering seems capable of holding the torso in place during jarring side-to-side transitions, complemented by a driver's seat height adjuster that should allow for optimal visibility and comfort. Splitting the front seats is a stylish centre console with an integrated armrest cum storage bin, the ovoid design mimicking that on the seat recline levers as well as the very trendy new door panels.

What appear to be the world's largest interior door grab handles are really only optical illusions, made right when seen from just above. The thick door pulls, just above, are oval as well, but the real style statements are at the base of each door, where an industrial-chic crisscross pattern gives the SUV a distinctively tough appearance.

The
Acrobatic back seat accommodates much more cargo space than ever before. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
rear seat, which incidentally appears more comfortable than back benches used in models past, includes a seatback that folds forward before the entire mechanism tumbles up against the front seatbacks, creating a great deal more loading space than before. Actually, Jeep says that its additional 2.0 inches of cargo floor depth nearly doubles what was there previously, not saying a lot for the outgoing model's load carrying potential with all seats in place. Adding to the new Wrangler's versatility is a handy lockable under-floor storage compartment, allowing greater security for small items when the top is down.

But that increased cargo area isn't only because of the convenient
CD stereo with MP3 player plug-in is standard. Step-look of console is cool. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
rear seats, it's also thanks to a 5.5 inch increase in total vehicle width - a benefit that adds 4.6 inches of additional hip room, 5.1 inches more shoulder room, plus incremental improvements in legroom and the aforementioned added space behind the rear seat. Between the side door panels is a front-seat area that totals 54.6 cubic feet of space; an increase of 4.8 cubic feet.

As noted, 5.5 inches of growth in any direction is monumental, showing that this new Wrangler isn't merely a new skin over an old frame. The new body and frame combination, the former of which is 50 percent stiffer and the latter 100 percent more rigid than the old TJ, joins a new five-link coil suspension connected to a 2.0-inch longer wheelbase and 3.5-inch wider track, while its spring rates are lower and shocks tuned to increase jounce and rebound travel for better on-pavement refinement. Complementing these upgrades is a new recirculating-ball steering system and enhanced suspension geometry, that are said to make a big difference in ride and handling plus, when factoring in new sound-deadening techniques, reportedly reduce cabin noise by more than 20 percent.


"The all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler reaches new levels of on-road
If the Rubicon can't take you there, man wasn't made to visit it. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
ride, handling and refinement - an achievement realized while also boosting its off-road capability," said Mike Donoughe, Vice President - Body-on-frame Product Team. "The new suspension enables the Wrangler to corner flatter with less lateral motion, provide better on-center steering feel, and even more effectively absorb on-road bumps and cracks."

Off-road, the Wrangler's higher ground clearance, larger wheels and tires, improved Dana front and rear axles, new electric axle lockers, electronic disconnecting front sway bar (just like the one in the 4x4-tuned Dodge Ram Power Wagon pickup), and optional Command-Trac and Rock-Trac transfer cases give it even greater tenacity on slippery surfaces.

"Re-engineered and redesigned from the ground up, the all-new 2007 Jeep Wrangler is the most capable Wrangler in its 65-year history," added Donoughe. "With more ground clearance, better wheel articulation and advanced off-road hardware, Jeep Wrangler is designed to tackle the toughest off-road obstacles."

That
Optional electronic active sway bar allows for impressive wheel articulation. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
electronic-disconnecting front stabilizer bar just mentioned, dubbed Active Sway Bar System (ASBS), allows for greater wheel travel when traversing the tough stuff. Off-road techies should get excited about the new Wrangler's 652 Ramp Travel Index (RTI - a measurement of a vehicle's suspension articulation) when the front stabilizer bar is engaged, but should be floored with its 832 RTI when the front stabilizer bar is disconnected, equal to a 28 percent increase. Remember Jamboree friends, this is a stock vehicle... just think what you can do after a little lift!

Getting back to the transfer cases, the Wrangler X and Sahara models, two of three trim levels offered, feature Jeep's second-generation Command-Trac NV241, part-time, two-speed transfer case, boasting a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. Combined with Jeep's Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential (LSD) extra torque and grip is provided when riding over low-traction surfaces, such as sand, gravel, snow or ice.

The third and top-line trim level is once again named Rubicon,
For those curious, check out the news: here's the new four-door Wrangler Unlimited. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
celebrating the brand's dominance over the Rubicon Trail, one of the toughest 4x4 adventures anywhere. The Rubicon edition Wrangler gets an Off-Road Rock-Trac NV241 two-speed transfer case with a 4.0:1 low-range gear ratio, plus electric front- and rear-axle lockers and 32-inch B.F. Goodrich Off-Road tires. What's more, the Rubicon ups its front and rear axles to heavy-duty Dana 44s, before adding many additional off-road-ready enhancements.

As
ESP and stability control make the Wrangler a much safer vehicle - even for crashing through walls. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
good as the Rubicon is at taking on the rough stuff, it's not like regularly equipped Wranglers are particularly lacking when compared to their competitors. All 2007 models come standard with three underbelly skid plates, for instance, shielding the fuel tank, transfer case and automatic transmission oil pan from untoward rocks or stumps. Also standard, an approach angle of 44.3 degrees and breakover angle of 25.4 degrees, plus its 40.4 degree departure angle allow the new Jeep to climb boulders with even greater ease than any previous Jeep, helping to make sure that only the tires connect with the ground.

Assisting the Wrangler's grip are all-new electronic driver aids such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP), although this antiskid feature, along with electronic roll mitigation and ABS-equipped disc brakes all-round (the old one had rear drums as standard) is designed more for safety than off-road prowess. ESP features three modes - "full on," "full off" and "partial on," according to the Wrangler press release. And if it happens to turtle (flip on its back), seat-mounted side airbags will deploy, along with dual stage frontal airbags if needed, all kept in check by DaimlerChrysler's Occupant Classification System (OCS).


Knowledge that the new Wrangler will be more capable of keeping
New V6 motor is mated to either a six-speed manual or four-speed autobox. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
its tires planted to the ground is good news, especially after hearing that the old 4.0-litre inline-six has been tossed, finally, for an all-new more powerful 3.8-litre V6. The V6 is lighter, can be positioned further back in the engine housing to improve weight distribution, and is more efficient than the outgoing mill, with a 15 horsepower and 5 lb-ft advantage despite a 200 cc drop in displacement. The new 205 horsepower engine sports 240 lb-ft of torque, which should be ample to push the 1,403 to 1,541 kilo (3,785 to 4,129 pound) 4x4 (depending on trim level) along at a reasonable clip. Mated to the new engine is a standard six-speed manual gearbox, while a four-speed automatic is optional. Yes, no five- or six-speed automatic makes the Wrangler autobox seem rather antiquated, although the four-speed unit is robust and reliable, for the most part, which stands for a lot when you're fifty miles into the bush with no repair shop within a day's drive.

And that's the way I like my Wranglers; out in the backcountry, hubs deep in mud, windshield dropped forward, doors removed and top off. I've 4x4ed for most of my life, and while my Dad and I had to "settle" for a Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40, we always admired the little Jeeps for going just about anywhere "vehicularly" possible. Although Toyota has conceptually reinvented the classic FJ40, now dubbed FJ Cruiser, its front suspension is independent, windshield can't be dropped, doors must be left attached and roof remains fixed in place at all times.

The
Modular hardtop snaps on and off in bits to provide security and sun. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada )
Wrangler, on the other hand, is offered up with a myriad of top and door designs. As mentioned previously, full-, half- and soft vinyl-doors are available, while a number of tops include a full vinyl enclosure, plus the innovative Sunrider soft top that features an integrated soft-sunroof larger than any sunroof currently available, and a three-piece modular hardtop with cool T-top-like removable sections over the driver and front passenger. No doubt the aftermarket will join DaimlerChrysler's Mopar accessories division in selling "bras", which would be more appropriately called "thongs", etc, although even in stock and OEM accessory trim the Wrangler boasts "dozens of different door, top and windshield combinations."

Other optional features include power windows and door locks, a full-screen navigation system, and a 368-watt Alpine audio system with MP3 capability and SIRIUS Satellite Radio. In total, nine different exterior colour options are available, plus 16-, 17- and 18-inch wheels and tires.

And with those larger wheels and tires, Jeep hopes its all-new
With more options and standard features, the Wrangler should continue to remain a popular choice in the Jeep lineup. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
Wrangler will roll out of dealerships all the more easily. DaimlerChrysler Canada sold 28,303 Jeeps in Canada last year, up 10.9 percent compared to the 25,521 vehicles it sold in 2004. That upswing continues, with the first quarter in 2006 up 4 percent compared to the same period in 2005, with some 5,826 Jeeps sold already. Internationally, Jeep sold over 400,000 new Wranglers (TJs), Libertys, Grand Cherokees and Commanders last year, an improvement from 2004 of more than 10 percent, and with the new Wrangler, plus the new four-door Wrangler Unlimited, light-duty, entry-level Compass, which will be Jeep's least expensive model at $17,995 for a front-wheel drive version and $19,995 with four-wheel drive, about $10K less than the Wrangler's starting point, and slightly more robust Patriot arriving soon after, it should result in another banner year for the 65 year-old brand.


Yes, DaimlerChrysler wouldn't let us forget about Jeep's long tour of
It's amazing how after 65 years the Wrangler is still as capable off-road, if not more, than the first Willys. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)
duty in the military, starting when U.S. forces entered WWII literally at the wheel of thousands of Willys MBs; one was on-hand for the 2007 model's introduction. Like the old Willys, many of which were left behind in Europe after the war, the new Wrangler will continue to be available internationally. Other markets will get a diesel variant, something diehard 4x4 fans in North America have been requesting since it first became available to the public, and to further service a global audience both left- and right-hand drive models will be built at its recently upgraded Toledo, Ohio production facility.

Can't wait to get your hands on one? Unfortunately you'll have to, but only until it arrives in dealerships this coming fall. Expect pricing to be similar to the current model, ranging from $27,000 to about $37,000, although the new one could climb a little higher due to more available features.

Preliminary Specifications:
  • Price Range (estimated MSRP): $27,000 - $40,000
  • Body Type: 2-door convertible SUV
  • Layout: front engine, 4WD
  • Engine: 205-hp, 240 lb-ft of torque, 3.8L, 12-valve, OHV V6
  • Transmission: 6-spd manual (optional 4-spd auto)
  • Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS 
  • Curb Weight (min - max): 1,403 - 1,541 kg (3,785 - 4,129 lbs)
  • External Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 3,881 / 1,873 (without mirrors) / 1,800 (w/ hardtop) / 2,424 mm (152.8 / 73.7 (without mirrors) / 70.9 (w/ hardtop) / 95.4 in)
  • Track (frt/rr): 1,572 / 1,572 mm (61.9 / 61.9 in)
  • Overhang (frt/rr): 679 / 778 mm (26.7 / 30.6 in)
  • Seating Capacity: 4
  • Cargo Volume (behind 2nd row/2nd row folded/2nd row removed): 0.2 / 1.6 / 1.7 L (17.2 / 56.5 / 61.2 cu-ft)
  • Ground Clearance (front min - max): 231 - 269 mm (9.1 - 10.6 in)
  • Ground Clearance (rear min - max): 224 - 262 mm (8.8 - 10.3 in)
  • Towing Capacity (estimated): 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs)
  • Payload (max): 373 kg (1,000 lbs)
  • Fuel Economy (city/hwy): N/A
  • Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
  • Web Site: www.jeep.ca