Wrangler is designed for enthusiasts who enjoy traveling off the beaten path. Jeep's lowest-priced, entry-level vehicle, was never intended for full-time use on smoothly-paved interstate highways. It's designed for off-road use where 4-wheel traction is commonplace. However, Wrangler owners living in the sprawling Chicago suburbs tend to use these vehicles primarily for commuting, and off-roading second. It's removable top and stiff ride appeal to a younger audience looking for versatility. Folks used to power windows, quiet interiors and a gaggle of creature comforts are advised to steer clear from Wrangler. This vehicle handles very differently from conventional cars. Two Wrangler trim levels are offered: a base S and upscale SE. Both are two-door editions. In 1994, Wrangler sold nearly 75,000 units, its best sales year ever. Base price starts at $11,995. Our soft-top test model included Wrangler's 'new for '95' Rio Grande package, with spice interior and patterned cloth seats, adding a rugged, southwest flavor. Other options included in our test model were power steering, reclining front bucket seats, leather wrapped steering wheel and a small, lockable, rear storage area. After factoring in options and a $495 destination charge, the bottom line was $15,116. Chrysler Corporation, Jeep's parent company, announced last month that no 1996 Wrangler edition will be offered. Instead, a completely redesigned Wrangler will debut next spring as a 1997 model. The extra time off will provide engineers a chance to bring Wrangler up to date for the 1990s. From an ergonomic standpoint, Wrangler needs help. Here are some suggestions : - Dashboard dilemma: The addition of air bags in 1997 models will provide a perfect opportunity to completely redesign the dashboard. Currently, no air bags are offered. The speedometer is too small, so lets make it bigger. Also, circular gauges extend three quarters of the way along the dashboard to the glove box. These should be clustered closer together, so driver's need just a quick glance, rather than an extended look, for engine information. - What's in the box? Not much. The owners' manual barely fits into the current glove box. It needs a size boost too. - Hold on: No cup holders are in sight. The best location for securely corralling soda cans or coffee cups is your lap. Door-mounted map holders and more storage nooks are also in order. - Sound advice: Stereo placement needs to be closer to the driver. It's too much of stretch reaching the unit. Also pre-set buttons and volume controls need to be enlarged. - Big step: It's a long way from the ground to the front bucket seats. Adding a running board along the side could be a step in the right direction. - Wipe the slate clean: The windshield wipers are very noisy. The wiper motor needs a muffler. - Windows 95. Both the passenger and driver's side window units pull up and out, enhancing Wrangler's open-air ambiance when the top is down. In order to pay tolls or let fresh air in with the widows intact, one must 'unzip' them. When unzipped however, the plastic drapes inside on the laps of occupants. There needs to be a quick way to restrain these unzipped windows by incorporating straps or snaps. Also, the inside door handle needs to be moved closer to the driver. As in other sport utility vehicles, Wrangler's front bucket seats are positioned higher up than seats in conventional sedans or coupes. This provides drivers with a good view of the road. Serious off-roaders will enjoy Wrangler's shift-on-the-fly, command track, four-wheel-drive. The system is simple to operate. Part-time four-wheel-drive mechanically locks together the front and rear axles so they turn at the same speed. When driving on dry pavements, two-wheel high is recommended. Shifting from two-wheel-drive high to four-wheel drive high can be done at any speed. Four-wheel high is designed for temporary use in rain, snow, sand or off-roading. Four-wheel-drive low is recommended for low-speed pulling. The soft fabric top is relatively simple to remove and reattach. Working alone and attempting this feat for the first time, it took only about 10 minutes to undue, and 15 minutes to re-due. The owners manual recommends removal be avoided when the temperature dips below 72 degrees, otherwise the canvas material won't be as flexible. The manual also suggests not removing the top at all if the thermometer reads 41 degrees or cooler. Wrangler is also available in a hard-top version. Wrangler's closest competitors, the Suzuki Sidekick and similar Geo Tracker, offer better interior ergonomics, but don't offer anti-lock brakes or pack as much punch under the hood. Wrangler SE comes standard with a 4.0 six-cylinder engine for serious-minded off-road power. Anti-lock brakes are optional only in the upscale SE trim level. Driver's must be aware when tooling down the highway, that Wrangler is very susceptible to wind gusts, no matter if the top is on or off. Wrangler's fuel tank holds 15 gallons of unleaded fuel. Estimated mileage figures for five-speed manual transmissions is only 19 miles per gallon city, and twenty miles per gallon highway. Our test model with 4,000 odometer miles registered 18 m.p.g. combined city and highway driving. Jeep will continue production of the current Wrangler until December of 1995 at its Toledo, Ohio plant. Potential Wrangler buyers may choose to follow an old Chicago sports adage and 'wait until next year.' |