It was raining most of the week here in Vancouver, but despite the downpour, my spirits were uplifted while listening to my crazy, upbeat techno music on the standard AM/FM/CD audio system. For only $200 more a 7-speaker system with a subwoofer and tweeters can be added - well worth the investment. Speaking of investments the 2003 Jeep TJ Rubicon starts at only $29,425. If such features as rear tinted windows, a rear window defroster, full metal doors with roll-up windows, and a hard top are needed, Jeep offers a Customer Preferred Package adding an extra $1,660 to the base sticker. The price as tested, however, is $34,310. But a few extra dollars will get you a few extra great features. Floor mats go for $30, a must if off-roading! Speed control is $330, air conditioning $1,060, an auto-dimming rearview mirror equipped with integrated lamps and a compass/temperature gauge for $155, just to name a few. The best feature of all is standard, Jeep's 7-year 115,000 km powertrain warranty.
All in all I enjoyed the simplicity of the Jeep. It's a manual labour machine and I'm into that sort of thing. The windows are large and wide, good for viewing the outside environment whether bush or blind spot. The Rubicon is a beefy Jeep, which leads in perfectly to some personal beefs! It's small inside, with storage capacity next to none if more than two are aboard. But if three or four's a crowd the rear seats fold down to give some room for gear. There's also a tiny trunk capable of holding my snowboard boots, and that's about it. Also, as I mentioned previously it's a bit thirsty on fuel. Its average yearly consumption is about $1,747, but I think if I were driving it the amount would go up. What's more its beastly tire treads make for anything but a quiet ride.
In the end, a Jeep is a Jeep and refinement isn't its calling card. If I wanted a smooth ride, I'd settle for a limo. But a limo wouldn't satisfy me in the wilderness like the Rubicon. I would miss the stares of strangers when checking out my dirty ride. The Rubicon is eye-catching, especially in its natural state: dirty.