 |
| 2005 Jeep TJ Unlimited Rubicon (Photo: André Deslauriers) |
Standard features on this $33,250 TJ Unlimited Rubicon include the 6-cylinder engine with 6-speed manual, four-wheel disc brakes, the aforementioned LT245/75SR16 tires and 16-inch alloy wheels, Dana 44 axles, Rock-Trac and Tru-Lok systems, and a 7-speaker sound system with CD player and subwoofer. This test vehicle was also equipped with air conditioning ($1,070), an auto-dimming mirror with temperature display and compass ($155), the dual-top group ($1,495) as well as a lockable fuel cap ($20), for a grand total of $35,990. You can also add a 4-speed automatic transmission ($1,120) and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with cruise control ($390), among others.
 |
| 2005 Jeep TJ Unlimited Rubicon (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123) |
While 36 grand might seem like a lot for a stripped-down SUV, especially in a time where you can get more civilized and better-equipped ones for about the same price, keep in mind that its off-road capabilities are virtually unmatched. The TJ also seems to have the best resale value among Jeeps. If a Rubicon is too marginal for you, a base model TJ SE is yours for $23,025, and the base Unlimited model starts at $29,510, which would suit me just fine. Competitors are hard to find, if at all. The discontinued Land Rover Freelander and the Hummer H3 probably come close in terms of off-road talent, but they're more expensive.
What can we expect in the future for the TJ? A all-new model seems to be on its way for 2007. Spy shots have also revealed a 4-door model that's under development. One thing is sure, though, is that the basic recipe of the TJ, being its off-road prowess, no-nonsense interior and no electronic gadgets whatsoever, needs to be left untouched. I would like to see the
 |
| 2005 Jeep TJ Unlimited Rubicon (Photo: Michel Deslauriers, Auto123) |
availability of Jeep's 2.8-litre CRD diesel engine in the TJ, with its 295 pound-feet of torque. It will probably depend on how many can be built in order to meet demand.
I was pleased to spend a week with the Jeep TJ Unlimited Rubicon. Although this brute didn't win my heart over as a daily driver and it costs a lot of fuel, I had so much fun cruising around with the top down and exploring the countryside, that I was sad to give it back. It's a well-built, all-terrain wonder that begs to hit rough stuff, and draws stares while you're on your way there.
What I liked:Incomparable off-road performance
Fun to drive (except on highways)
Interior space and improved ride of Unlimited model
What I didn't like:Fuel consumption
Hard plastic interior
Soft top irritating to lower/raise
CLICK HERE to view the 2005 Jeep TJ Unlimited Rubicon's specifications.
