Jeep makes getting in and out of the rear seat fairly easy unless you're extremely height challenged for face physical limitations. The front driver and passenger seats pop up and forward to clear a large path into the back. I know because I took the opportunity to climb up and take a seat when the model was introduced to me at a special Detroit auto show preview I attended toward the end of November. Compared to the abbreviated second row in the regular TJ, the Unlimited's extra two inches can really be felt. It's hardly limousine-like, but those trapped in back for an extended trip will be eternally grateful.
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| "We set out to create more space for cargo and passengers, but the increase in wheelbase also improves the on-road ride." (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
The longer wheelbase increases towing capacity too, giving the TJ Unlimited a best-in-class rating of 1,588 kg (3,500 lbs), 680 kg (1,500 lbs) more weight than the standard TJ.
"We set out to create more space for cargo and passengers, but the increase in wheelbase also improves the on-road ride and towing capability of the Wrangler Unlimited," said Jaci Woody, Executive Engineer, Jeep Special Programs Engineering. "The added space broadens the appeal of the Wrangler Unlimited to customers who appreciate space and additional towing capability without compromising the character of the Wrangler."
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| While the Unlimited won't be quite as off-road capable as its smaller TJ counterpart (shown), it'll be miles ahead of its competition. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada) |
That character is exemplified when the road gets rough, or otherwise nonexistent. To say the TJ is "Trail Rated" is an understatement of the highest order. There probably isn't any new vehicle currently being sold in Canada that could keep up off-road, Hummers and Mercedes-Benz Unimogs included when the mountain road turns into a narrow trail.
While the Unlimited won't be quite as capable due to its longer wheelbase, which gives more opportunity for jutting rocks and roots to hang up the undercarriage when traversing a crest, it should still outpace its competition with little problem.