2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara Road Test

Amazing what two more doors can do

Not a single vehicle on the road is as familiar as the Wrangler. I'm not talking about prestige here, but respect and admiration. The Wrangler is a cult truck, and I don't know anybody who doesn't like it.

The Wrangler in all its glory.

It's funny to realize how many things we tolerate in a Wrangler that we'd simply not accept in any other vehicle; noise, on-road manners, fuel consumption and virtually nonexistent practicality.

I think the 2007 Wrangler addresses a lot of shortcomings compared to last year's TJ, and the new four-door version will widen its customer base.

Good looks
No doubt, we won't confuse this vehicle with anything other than a Wrangler. Even with two extra doors hooked on it, its look is still utilitarian and robust. I think the front grille looks a little cheap since it's now made of plastic, but in general, I really like the both modern and retro appearance of this Jeep.

And when you're behind the wheel, don't forget to wave at other drivers of YJs, TJs and Wranglers as they pass by. They will surely wave back at you, if they don't do it first. It's like learning the secret handshake when becoming a member of an exclusive club; we feel like a member of the family... a very big family, that is. For those who are wondering, when I drove the Compass and Patriot, I got zero salutes from Jeep purists; I guess for them, they're not the real thing.

The hard top on my test model is split into 3 sections; two front panels can be removed pretty easily. However, the rear portion is much heavier and requires tools to take it off. In addition, the paint on these panels seems to get scratched pretty easily, too. At least we can catch some sunrays without taking the whole top off.

One of my colleagues told me that the door handle buttons require a 15-lb pressure to unlatch. Ladies, be careful you don't break your freshly-polished nails... My 4-year-old son had a hard time opening the doors from the outside; he had to use both thumbs and a little encouragement to succeed.

The Wrangler's ride is a bit awkward on pavement but everything changes when you leave the roads.