Just thought I would ask you guys some opinions

I currently have a Land Rover Discovery II. It's '99 model that I bought used a few years back. As far as reliability goes, it's a real nightmare but it is a fun machine to take on the trails. Many LR enthusisasts say the 99s and the 00s are the worst years of the Disco IIs due to the major redesign done in order to make it available in mid year of 1999.

It seems a lot of redesigns are like this, some better or worse than my case. If you were me what would you do? Get an 06 now or get a 07 when they are available? I like the new look of the Wrangler, but kinda worried about any potential maintenance issues that might pop up since it is a redesign.

Comments, advice, and suggestions are welcomed. Thanks!

Hello Yesfan,

I too am going through the same choice..

I have decided to get a (almost new) '05 or '06 Unlimited .

My wife need a newer ride(wink).

I decided to wait to see it the new Wrangler will be getting a diesel any time soon.

I also believe the 1st year production of a totally revamped machine is bound to have a few glitches.

I am in no way putting DC down with this statement, but it stands to reason and could happen with automaker.

If by chance the '07 is a poor performer (motor), well then an '05 or '06 will be worth their weight in gold, so to speak.

I have been looking for a jeep with the unlimited platform (CJ-6 or 8 etc) for quite a while, none were what I wanted.

Being 6'7'' I need the little extra room, which the unlimited gives me.

The new '07 Unlimited with a diesel will be enough of a reason for me to sell my 4 door powerstroke.

I haven't had a jeep since I got rid of my CJ-2A, Boy oh boy I used to fit in there LOL

But at 60 I still and always loved jeeps .

I can fit in them again ,thanks to the unlimited.

Good Luck with your decision

PS. My Daughter and Son-In-Law both drive '05 GC's.

Love Those Jeeps

Ron

If you can wait a year I would suggest waiting until they come out with an alternative fuel version of the JKL. The additional space, doors, safety features, and mileage improvements should make it worth waiting, unless your Disco is about to die.
As far as the redesign concerns go, you are correct. Many first year vehicles are a plague. From what I have read the Rubicon will be using the same tranny, T-case and axles. The interior will most likely be borrowed from other DCx vehicles as much as possible to reduce costs. Then engine is where the real concern should be. Let's just hope they keep borrowing and improving upon already established mills.
The last thing we need is another line in the NAPA parts book.
If you really have your heart set on the current TJL, waiting until the new JKL is out will force the prices down for you to save a few $$$.

I recently sold an 05 six speed, then missed having a Jeep and just bought an 06 Rubicon with the auto trans. I liked the manual but the auto makes the Jeep a whole new and for me, better rig. More percieved power and even more fun to drive everywhere. The 4 speed auto gives up nothing to the manual in power, mileage, etc. I got 17 mpg hwy. bringing it home on the 300 mile trip. Started with just 20 miles on the ODO so that's pretty good for a new motor.

I am anxious to see the 07 but am real happy with the 06. Even the front end is tighter for some reason this year though I think 05/06 is the same parts wise. I got a fair deal on mine, loaded MSRP was 32K and I paid 26k after the $1000 rebate. There is a good selection out there and sales are flat as indicated on this great web site. Drive an auto trans for sure before you commit, it's a good choice. If you really wanna shift...that manual is very very smooth and with the 4.11's you almost always have to start off in second gear! Good luck on your hunt.

I appreciate all the advice folks. Thanks.

I think I might hold off and wait for the 07s. Like what was already mentioned, if I don't like the 07s after a test drive or two, then there will probably be deals on the 06s to be had.

Boy, this summer is going to be a tough one for me

I read (I'm sorry I dont have a link) that the estimated MPG is going to be 17/22. Coupled withe fact that max torque occurs at a higher RPM- geez wonder how long is this engine is going to be in the line up.

Correct me if I'm wrong but the engine on the '07 appears to be the same engine being offered now in the Dodge Grand Caravan SXT which posts on Dodge.com as 3.8L V6 205 hp
18 city / 25 hwy.

Granted we're talking about a minivan that may weight about the same but have smaller tires, that should give us *some* idea on what the mpg should be.

I like THE 07''s refinement, so I would hold out.

I thought about getting a Wrangler (unlimited) and was going to wait it out. However, if I were to get one (which I probably will) I will go for the 2006 model.

1. Engine- if you look at the HP and torque figure and the weight, the 2007 model has lower power(torque) to weight ratio. Also, although it gains 15 HP but only 5 ft-lbs of torque. This tells me that the HP comes on at high RPM and may not be very usable for street driving.

2. I usually stay away from the first year model.

3. I like the look of the 2006 model better than 2007.

Once the 2007 model has been out for a few years and all (or most of the bugs) worked out and hopefully a beter engine, I may be able to trade in my 2006.

I'm in a similar position - im from UK, and a petrol Wrangler is not really practical. I'm really desperate to own a 2007 diesel Wrangler (manual box) - such an awesome offroad vehicle! I've read your advice about how the 1st year models are usually bug-ridden. I've never thought about this and I'm concerned. What assurances and comebacks would i have if the 2007 Wrangler went bad? What are typical problems that new cars have?

Thanks for any replies...