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2007 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Road Test

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Luc Gagné
Fortunately, you can fold the rear seats to significantly increase cargo room. With about 1,600 liters at your disposal, planning a short camping trip is now possible. Oddly enough, the shorter, narrower Jeep TJ offered a 1,792-liter cargo capacity with the seats folded.

Rearward visibility is far from being commendable, as you can see by this picture.

Visibility?

Visibility is never a strength for any SUV and the Wrangler is no exception, especially the hardtop-equipped models. Rearward visibility is partially obstructed by the top of the spare tire and the rear wiper engine case. As a result, maneuvring in reverse forces the driver to be extra careful.

Good news, though: the Wrangler offers better visibility than both its closest rivals, the Toyota FJ Cruiser and Hummer H3.

On the road, I found this Jeep to be surprisingly competent. The power steering is precise and adequately assisted. The short turning radius (10.6 meters) combined with the ultra-short wheelbase make this vehicle particularly nimble. In other words, the Wrangler is not only convenient on narrow, winding trails but also in crowded downtown parking lots.

The suspension is firm, as one would naturally expect. The short wheelbase would make it seem firmer if it were not for the soft shocks, which help deliver a smoother ride.

Manipulating the removable roof panels could prove challenging for shorter people.

Affordable fun under the sun

And let's not forget that the Wrangler X is still the most affordable convertible on the market. How can you resist the opportunity to drive under the sun at such a low price?

It's no surprise that, 65 years after its military ancestor was born, the Jeep Wrangler remains very popular. By improving comfort levels, the company is able to make people forget about the little annoying quirks that make it so unique.


Precise, well-calibrated power steering
Nicely-tuned manual transmission
One-of-a-kind off-roader
An SUV you love to hate!

Interior soundproofing still needs work
Non-lockable hood
Heavy, cumbersome removable roof panels


Lack of rear-seat access and comfort
Lack of cargo access and room
Limited rearward visibility
Cumbersome tailgate in tight spaces
photo:Philippe Champoux, Luc Gagné
Luc Gagné
Luc Gagné
Automotive expert
  • More than 30 years of experience as an automotive journalist
  • Over 59 test drives in the past year
  • Attended over 150 new vehicle launches in the presence of the brand's technical specialists