 New Jeep(R) Wrangler Unlimited Broadens Customer Appeal with Added Versatility and Capability
Posted by mike on 2004/1/28 23:00:00 (500) reads
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Official Press Release from DaimlerChrysler
(Official DaimlerChrysler press release) Chrysler Group today announced pricing for the new 2004-1/2 Jeep® Wrangler Unlimited. With a base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $24,995 (including $610 destination), the new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited --based on the Wrangler Sport model-- gives Jeep owners 15-inches more Wrangler, more space for passengers, best-in-class towing capability, more on-road ride comfort, Jeep 4x4 capability and an innovative new soft-top. Go anywhere, do anything and now bring everything. The new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited delivers double the cargo area with 13 inches more space plus two inches more second row leg room for passenger comfort. Access to the second row is also improved with a tip-and-slide front seat added to the driver's side. Positioned between the Wrangler Sport and Sahara models, the Wrangler Unlimited expands the already formidable Wrangler line-up, which ranges from the base Wrangler SE model starting at $16,940 to the top-of-the line Sahara ($25,580) and the most capable SUV, the Wrangler Rubicon ($25,755). While maintaining its legendary 4x4 Jeep capability, the new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited also offers more refined, on-road comfort and quietness because of its longer 103-inch wheelbase, which includes an additional 10 inches compared with the original Wrangler. The longer wheelbase results in Wrangler Unlimited's best-in-segment towing capability of 3,500 lbs. "With the introduction of the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, we're expanding the Wrangler customer base to include those buyers who need more space, yet still want the Jeep 4x4 capability, class-leading towing capability and open-air fun and freedom," said Jeff Bell, Vice President, Jeep, Chrysler Group. "The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is an extension of the original Wrangler buyer group, and will appeal more broadly to younger buyers and those who select this as their primary, secondary or tertiary vehicle with its added space and versatility." Adding another option to open-air fun, Wrangler Unlimited features an innovative new Sunrider™ soft-top, which includes a "sun roof" feature in addition to the full-top down option. The Sunrider™ soft-top includes larger, deep-tinted side windows. The Wrangler Unlimited is also available with a new hard top. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited features as standard equipment the 4.0-liter PowerTech I-6 engine mated to the 42RLE four-speed automatic transmission. The 4.0-liter engine is rated at 190 horsepower (142kW) at 4,600 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N·m) of torque at 3,200 rpm. Also standard on Wrangler Unlimited are the Dana 30 front axle, a rear heavy-duty Dana 44 axle, 30-inch tall R15 Goodyear Wrangler GSA tires, 15-inch Ravine aluminum wheels, high-pressure gas-charged shock absorbers with 3.73 axle ratio, Sunrider™ soft-top, fog lamps, full-steel doors with deep tinted windows, padded Sport Bar, AM/FM stereo with CD, easy access tip-and-slide front seats, fold-and-tumble rear seat, front and rear floor mats, next generation air bags, power steering and tow hooks. The new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited offers Chrysler Group's transferable seven-year/70,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. The Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited are built at the Company's Toledo (Ohio) South Assembly Plant. The Wrangler Unlimited will be sold in North American markets only.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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 Originally posted by: Jeff I just moved back to the states from Europe. The
European Wranglers (the very few of them that I saw)
had folding rear seats that had headrests. They
appeared to be stock rear seats, so this can be done.
Why aren't they offered as an option in the US?
I will wait until the 5 speed transmission is available for
the Unlimited. I saw the Unlimited at the dealer today.
Looks like a great vehicle.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: River creep I believe that one of the reasons for this extended wheelbase Wrangler is to test its viability in the market place...for a good reason. Government regulations (due to change soon) are going to make it a lot tougher for the likes of smaller S.U.V.'s like the (standerd wheelbase)wrangler to pass new rear-end damage vs. gas tank damage/tests. I believe that it will be to hard for DCX to redesign the short Wrangler to pass these tougher tests and therefore...sales of the "limited" Wrangler are going to be the test imposed by D.C.X. to see if they are even going to bother with redesigning the Wrangler to meet these tests. I think the we are all looking at the future wrangler (short wheelbase discontinued) if there is to be a future at all. For more on this theory see.... www.allpar.comPs. If the plans D.C.X. has to use engine/tranny combos from other vehicles in their line-up to reduce costs is true, We can all look forward to a 3.7 litre v6 to replace the aged inline 4.0 as well as a new 6spd. standerd tranny to power her up...courtesy of the new 2005 Dakota. |
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: HUGE MOPAR FAN JUST TEST DROVE THE NEW UNLIMITED
IT IS AMAZING AND WORTH THE PURCHASE
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: steve here is my comment Once again jeep has dropped the ball for the loyalists. The Liberty was a piece of s***. Made for women, Now this.I wish AMC still made the JEEPS.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: GrandJeeper Went to the Dallas auto show this weekend and checked out the Wrangler Unlimited. Its just what it is a stretched wrangler which is nice, however, it looked strange to me with the longer tops. However, with the top off it does look good.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: John When are they going to be available??
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: jon $25,000 takes a lot of the fun out of the Wrangler.
I think you are much better off shopping for a used one that someone bought and traded in after a year because it wasn't as "cool and easy to drive" as they thought. You could save thousands.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: ScramblerKen Actually, the cost of the Unlimited compared to a Wrangler Sport with comparable options is only an additional $885. Remember, the Unlimited comes with Automatic, Dana 44, Track-Lok, and the 30 inch tire group package. If you add all that to a Wrangler Sport, the Sport's MSRP is $24,110.
I do agree, if you can wait, there might be rebates and all. Also, if you want a manual transmission, keep your fingers crossed they will offer it in the 2005 model. If we are real lucky, hopefully they will offer a Rubicon package next year too. Now maybe they can offer a 'Scrambler' package with a softtop similar to Bestops' halftop and siderails...(ok, just dreaming!!)
Happy 4 wheeling everyone.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Andrea What about right hand drive for postal people? I can't seem to get a positive answer one way or another.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: John With what we know as a society about whiplash, it is a crying shame that any car maker, Jeep included, would offer a rear seat without some form of headrest (especially in a 4X$ where you can get jolted around pretty good). They could even be the colapsable kind that drop down into the same shape as the seat is today. I also echo the value of a split rear seat for storage. Then many of us would not need the 13-extra inches that you have to pay $25,000 for. Rumor has it that a deisel is offered by DC in Europe (but I didn't hear that in connection with the Unlimited). Shame that DC couldn't have figured out how to modularize the Wrangler which might not have been that hard since it has a full chasis. That way you could get all kinds of configurations: the pickup (long or short bed), longer body, two chais versions (regular and unlimited size, 4 doors, etc.) I guess at this point with the model set to end with model-year '06, DC has no incentive to do this. They'd be smart to do it with the '07 wrangler. We should all take a lesson from AirBus on what interchangeability has done for them (many different models using many of the same interchangeable parts).
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Wyatt here is my comment
"My big surprise over my last Jeep was the improovement in overall quality. Everything fit together just right and there were no factory defects at all in my 2004. The controls were a higher quality, the engine sounds great and there are no leaks at all (never saw that before). I noticed that someone at Jeep even installed the door pin latches with the USA stampings right side up."
My 2001 TJ and 2001 XJ are the same way. Although my TJ has a better fit and finish than my XJ. I guess Jeep figured, in 2001, that the XJ wasn't going to be around much longer so let it wither and die.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: NorthWest Your right 91YJ that Autos are boring, I guess I never really thought about it that way. But I still like either transmission, as long as I'm out in the mountains. I'm sure Jeep will offer you that manual in August or September when the 2005's are released. There will likely be other options offered at that time that are not now available. They might even offer the vehicle to our friends in Australia.
My big surprise over my last Jeep was the improovement in overall quality. Everything fit together just right and there were no factory defects at all in my 2004. The controls were a higher quality, the engine sounds great and there are no leaks at all (never saw that before). I noticed that someone at Jeep even installed the door pin latches with the USA stampings right side up.
Thanks
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: 91 YJ in response to autos being better i have two replies: 1, you do make good points at why autos are acceptable, and agreed, in some ways theyre better, my response is, manuals also have advantages wheeling,
2. my problem with autos is that THEYRE BORING! what fun is it merging or going through a toll booth just moving one foot a little bit? for on road driving autos are plain no fun. im sorry but aside from those of us who look at sites like this one, how many people are gonna wheel these unlimiteds? my other problem with autos is that a drunk rabbit could drive one. driving an automatic takes no skill, and just because its easy doesnt make it right. take Porsche for example, their new $420K supercar has a normal stick, even though sequential manuals are much faster, why? cuz real stick is just the best way to drive. However i do realize that this is my opinion, just how others will stick by their automatics, i agree to each his own, its just that jeep is not allowing the third-pedal-lovers their option, and thats what bothers me
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: xjgary Has anyone heard if the Diesel might be a possibility in the Unlimited for 2005? A Rubicon Diesel would be great!
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Swamp Thing Not bad. With the hardtop, this may prove to be a replacement for the prematurely-killed XJ.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: NorthWest I have had an automatic in two of the four Jeeps that I have owned (CJ-3A, CJ-5, CJ-7, TJ-Rubicon). The usual arguments against an automatic are:
1). You can’t downshift to slow yourself down when coming down a mountain grade
2). They don’t last as long and are not as durable
3). They get worse gas mileage
4). They are not as good on difficult trails as you can’t select your gear
5). They cost more
6). They are just not what a manly man drives
To all this I just say, “bull”. (1) Yes you can downshift with an auto, that’s why all the little numbers are printed next to the shifter. If that doesn’t slow you down enough, shift the transfer case to low. (2) They last longer than a manual, yep, I said longer. No clutch plates to replace every 30k to 50k miles at up to $900 per shot if you can’t do the job yourself. As long as you change the fluid once every other year (or so), that auto will last at least 100k miles. My auto equipped CJ-7 lasted for 176k miles. My work Cherokee has 161k miles on it and I drove it though the snow today. (3) Look at the window sticker for the EPA estimates on the 2004 R models. The auto is rated at 19 mpg hwy., the manual is rated at 18 mpg hwy. In reality, forget those numbers, anything with 4-wheel-drive and a windshield that is shaped like a brick, is going to get poor mileage. (4) You can drive slower with an auto. Sometimes you need to go very slow to navigate obstacles, like the edge of a cliff. To go really slow with a stick you have to ride the clutch. See the clutch plate comment above for the $ignificance. Autos also have one magical ingredient that manuals don’t have; a torque converter. They make gobs of ridge climbing grunt. (5) They cost less in the long run. $ee the comment above about clutch plates. (6) If you rely on a transmission to make you feel like a man, I can’t help you, neither can a Jeep.
I have come to the conclusion that there is nothing wrong with having an automatic in a Jeep. I think they are better. That’s why I ordered one in my 04 Rubicon. Its smooth as silk. More important than transmission choice is the rear axle ratio. Get as low a gears as they offer (4.10, I wish they had 4.33’s, but the straight 6 is toquey as hell).
For those who like the manual better, more power to you. To each his own. Just get a Jeep and have fun.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: KCarlYJ Why not a safe, practical jeep that can go anywhere?
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: ScramblerKen David,
As I stated earlier,
The cost of the Unlimited compared to a Wrangler Sport with comparable options is only an additional $885. Remember, the Unlimited comes with Automatic, Dana 44, Track-Lok, and the 30 inch tire group package. If you add all that to a Wrangler Sport, the Sport's MSRP is $24,110.
Wrangler Sport - msrp 21380
automatic - 825
dana 44 - 310
30 inch tire group - 670
trak loc - 285
floor mats - 30
options - 2120
destination 610
total 24,110
Unlimited base cost $24995 - 24110 = 885
so the unlimited is really only $885 more than a regular Wrangler.
Now I know, being forced to take $2000 in options (especially the Automatic tranny) sucks, but most of these options are cheaper to buy now than later.
Would you really buy a 4-banger (the $17K SE model)in a stretched Wrangler? One of the benefits to the stretch design is towing and carrying capability, and I doubt you would really want the 4-banger for that.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: David If Jeep claims this is a practical version, why didn't they keep the base price practical? I was completely ready to buy one ASAP until now. I was expecting $2,000 - $3,000 more for the added space, but I think it is getting a bit steep at around $25,000.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: 71cj5 Saw one this weekend at the car show. Good Idea. But.. the cage looks kinda dorky with the top down, and the auto tranny thing is throwing me for a loop...
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Stingator I've heard that Jeep's supplier for a standard transmission is tooling up for fall production (the '05 Unlimited). The automatic in the '04+ model is from the Liberty line - notice the similarity in wheelbase. Jeep didn't have time to produce the standard for this Spring. I've also heard they are considering a Rubicon model in '05.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Guy Jeep, indeed DCX, will ultimately fail if they
continue to ignore export markets.
They may as well close the factory doors
forever if they feel that only domestic
customers are interested in their product.
No wonder Toyota are eating Jeep alive.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Jon Porter It's great hearing that TJ production will last at least 10
years (1996-2006?). Just hope Jeep replaces it with a similar
looking truck instead of some goofy SUV design. And now
that the TJ Scrambler is out it would be nice to see a V-8
offered.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: ScramblerKen Hobart, it's not that the I-6 was not reliable, it has more to do with manufacturing costs and making the engine meet emission rules. DC for sometime has been wanting to reduce the number of engines they produce to keep costs down.
The V-6 in the Liberty is basically the same engine as the V-8 in the GC, just 2 cyls chopped off. When the XJ was dropped, a major user of the I-6 was also gone. Now with the 2005 GC, the I-6 will not be one of the engine choices. This leaves just the Wrangler, and since Jeep sells far less Wranglers than Libertys and GCs, it will be hard to keep the engine around much longer.
The original 4 banger in the Wrangler TJ was switched once the Liberty came out with its own different 4 cyl unit. Currently the Wrangler and the Liberty share the same 4 cyl engine.
For x-YJowner, I too am holding off buying an Unlimited because no manual transmission is being offered. From everyone I've talked to, only an Automatic will be available for the 2004 model. Insiders said that to bring the Unlimited to market quickly, very few options were going to be offered. Since they sell more Wranglers with an Automatic, they chose to only offer that. Insiders say it is very likely the 2005 model will offer a manual. As far as a Rubicon version of the Unlimited, no one is saying yes, but we are not getting a definte 'NO'.
Keep in mind, they will begin production of the Unlimited on February 23rd (for the 2004 model year), and by the Fall they will be switching over to the 2005 model year run. You still might be able to get a manual transmission model before the end of the calendar year.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: x-YJowner Are we sure that Jeep has no plans of offering a manual transmission as say a delete option. The Auto is really holding me back on placing an order.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Hobart Why is DCX xing the I-6 man i love this engine. I have a 98 grand that has one and never a problem now my 03 grand with the v8 has had its share of problems already wish i purchased it with the I-6
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: new news Interesting news I was just informed about.
Starting in model year 2006 assuming when the wrangler gets completely redone. The 4.0l will no longer be. In it's place will be the 3.8L minivan
engine. Heard this from a pretty good source.
Only thing I know about that engine is the block has been the same for 13 years and hasn't had any major changes except for the oil filter being relocated. PLus it is a very reliable engine.
Has anyone else heard anything.??
I was also told the grand cherokee looks real close to those pictures that were on here the other week.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: greg Why can't we get the unlimited in Australia, come on Jeep.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Don I have been waiting for this vehicle to come out for years.
The package looks great to me.
Here is a question. I grew up driving a CJ7 with a stick, and
I have always had manuals, but is there an advantage in
general off-road performance with an automatic or a
manual? As I said, I have only driven a stick.
Thanks, Don
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: rich This is great! Although i think the base price is a bit steep simply for 15 inches more space.
And I've yet to see a Rubicon based at 25+
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: 2doorxj Where's the 5-speed manual? Why are sticks disappearing?
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: ScramblerKen I agree, part of the fun of the Wrangler is tooloing around with the top down and driving a manual transmission, but unfortunately, most Wranglers are sold with an Automatic and full doors. Also, keep in mind the demographics for the Unlimited is families that needed more room, so safety (full doors) and easy use (automatic transmission) were factors. Sadly, manual transmission vehicles are becoming extinct. Very few vehicles with bigger than a 4-banger offer a manual transmission.
The Unlimited is basically the Wrangler, so the 1/2 doors should fit. As MalcomXJ stated, the Unlimited uses an extended drive shaft, not the tranny from the Liberty. Now with the 2007 Wrangler, we will probably see more sharing of components between the Liberty and the Wrangler.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: ScramblerKen Its true, you can buy a used vehicle cheaper, but the Jeep Unlimited maybe one of those unique ‘limited’ vehicles, and it might have a very short life. This vehicle might become rare like the CJ6 and CJ8. The plan is to only make around 20,000 Wrangler Unlimiteds per year, and with the redesign of the Wrangler coming for model year 2007, the Unlimited might have a short life. You also run the risk of buying a vehicle someone did not like, hence they beat the ‘snot’ out of it. I’m also hoping that the Unlimited will qualify for rebates and/or 0% financing, which would help with the price. Additionally, if no one buys any new ones, then there will not be any used ones.
As far as Jeep changing the choice of options or offering a Rubicon version, or offering other changes, this might be tough. The Unlimited is being built to beef up sales of the Wrangler for the final years of the current design. Typically in the end-of-life cycle for a design, sales will slump. The Rubicon helped Jeep maintain the 70,000+ sales for the Wrangler. Jeep management views the Unlimited as a way to keep Wrangler numbers up to this amount at a low cost. To offer a Rubicon package, even though most of the components will fit, testing and certification will be involved since the Unlimited is a longer platform. For a vehicle that is limited to 20,000 units, these costs may out weigh the benefits.
Sadly the red tape involved in certifying the Unlimited for over seas sales, the ‘limited’ number of units to be built, and having the parts available is why the Unlimited is ‘limited’ to North America. Maybe the Unlimited should have been called the ‘Limited’?
To answer Don regarding Auto vs. stick: Personally, there is no obvious choice. Many things depend on the type of trails you ride, and what else you plan to use your vehicle for, as well as what you like to drive. You might want to check with your trail buds, or poke around the net and read what others say. Ultimately, I think its what ever you are more comfortable with.
For New News, the rumor I hear is little to no change for Wranglers for 2005 and 2006. Depending upon how quickly they get the new plant up and running, the 2006 model year might be short so they can put the redesigned 2007 Wrangler in production early. I’m hearing the Liberty V6 is the likely candidate for the engine for the 2007 Wrangler. Watch what they offer in the 2005 Grand Cherokee for engine choices. Sadly, the old 4.0 I6 is likely to disappear once the 2007 Wrangler is introduced.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: 91 YJ In my opinion, not offering stick stock on a wrangler takes most of the fun out of it. why would someone buy a jeep when they could putter around in some POS lebaron if they want a 2 door automatic convertible. I am also disappointed that full doors are the only option, am i the only jeep owner that appreciates 1/2 door versatility? just because yuppies want their jeeps to be more like cars doesnt mean that jeep should get rid of symbols of a jeep. 1/2 doors and stick should definately be there if theyre calling it a wrangler.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: xjgary Take a look at AEV's website. They are putting Hemi's in factory ordered TJ's with the dual overdrive auto that normally comes with the Hemi! The package only weighs 58 pounds more than the I-6 and can be serviced at the Jeep dealer, but the downside is that they charge $18k for this. If it is new and ordered thru AEV you get up to $6k credit for deleting the 6 cyl engine and tranny. 360 HP and 0-60 in 5.9 seconds! Why can't Jeep offer this? Tests and rules I suspect.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: 91 YJ My point exactly the moment jeep starts worrying more about demographics and such is when it stops being a jeep. people who want safe, practical cars should buy a volvo, not taint the jeeps! Granted jeep wants $$, but wasnt the liberty designed exactly for this demographic?
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: MalcomXJ "The automatic in the '04+ model is from the Liberty line - notice the similarity in wheelbase."
I doubt the I6 and Liberty V6 tranny bells are even close to being compatible. Seems more likely that they'd source a longer driveshaft... remember the Cherokee.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: STEPH here is my comment
If they want to offer me more room, they should create a fold and tumble 50/50 split rear seat for those times when there`s 3 of us in the Jeep and a lot of gear.
4.10 gear option would be better. it`s not like they don`t have them, they use them in both , the dana 30 and 44 .
Another must option would be the selec-trac t-case.
Add to this the body colored wider fenders of the Sahara. Or maybe black with body colored as an option.
Add the above and I`ll place my order!
But their biggest mistake was to not build the DAKAR.
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Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Wyatt here is my comment
I'd love to see a hard top where you can remove the front half.
Jeep needs to continue to be competitive with the downsized HUMMERs; Toyota FJ; and Ford Bronco concept. Although the Ford Bronco concept will need to beef up the components underneath - basically a Ford Escape (yuck).
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Jon I thought the pricing was going start around $20,000 not $25,000!
If everone is smart they will wait a year or so and when they start offering big rebates, that will be the time to buy.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Mark Siciliano I wish it came with a manual tranmission, half doors, and body colored fender trim. Then it would look right, and be the right Jeep for me.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: brakeyoself i need manual unlimited....must have...manual unlimited
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Jimmy B. Two things I'd like to bring to everyones attention here.
Someone stated here that it would be to expensive to certify the unlimited for sales overseas and therefore the unlimited may be a "limited" production vehicle....
(see scrambler kens quote below)
"Sadly the red tape involved in certifying the Unlimited for over seas sales, the ‘limited’ number of units to be built, and having the parts available is why the Unlimited is ‘limited’ to North America. Maybe the Unlimited should have been called the ‘Limited’?"
....this statementis ABSOLUTELY WRONG!!!!
The "unlimited" has basiclly BEEN in production and for sale in Europe before Jeep gave it to us.
Just ask anyone who is stationed in the millitary in Europe. Jeep just decided to offer a more civilized version for sale in the states.
Two....
Due to laws that are currently in the works to make rear end/gas tank crushing safety standards regulations "stiffer" here in the goold ol U.S.A.
I predict that Jeep is using the # of units sold for the "Unlimited" as a basis for its decision to even bother to produce a new model Wrangler; due to the slump in Wrangler sales.
I'm speculating that if Jeep does decide to produce a "new" wrangler....that it will most certainly be based on the new "unlimiteds" wheel base, to meet the new stricter rear end impact safety standards that will be going into effect.
Look forward to a 3.7 litre v-6 and a 6 speed manual transmission courtesy of the Liberty and Dodge Dakota.
T too will miss the old inline 6.....but if I have to take it with the new package, I will.
Better a "new" wrangler....than no wrangler at all.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Phil Back to tranny talk: I remember reading a few years
back a great article about auto vs. manual strength,
reliability, etc... bottom line was regardless of clutch/
torque converter issues, the actual GEARS are stronger
in an auto. Apparently they use helical gears that have
more contact area per tooth, spreading out the load for
less failure. (Probably a big rationale behind the
automatic racing trannies.) So even though it goes
against the grain, I'd consider the right auto (provided
it's not the awful, failure-prone 4 sp OD used in Chrysler
minivans...
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Cory Went and Got my Unlimited at Carmax last week. I have 1000k on it as of today, last weekend on the trail. After driving it all over on the street, I love this thing! Drives and rides very nice. I paid 23k including extended warranty otd from Carmax.com in Orlando Fl. I'm definitely in love with the Unlimited. AEV has done some fine things with the Unlimited Wrangler and I can't wait to work on mine. The LWB Jeep is great for families. I loaded a disassembled weight bench and 250lbs of weights in it last night and brought it home from Sports Authority, try that in a SWB Wrangler without all of it hanging out the tailgate! I still love my 92 YJ, but the Unlimited it a great Family Jeep for the Money. Thanks DC! I'll let y'all know how it handles on real trails when I take it to Utah in June.
Cory
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Richard Unlimited I had been waiting for the Jeep Unlimited to show up in dealers for a while. I was quite happy with the the extra space that the Unlimited provided. Typically, I would have chosen the manual transmission, but my wife wanted to drive it and she has no experience with a manual. Since Jeep did not offer the manual, there was no need to argue with her. I got my Unlimited with a Hardtop because I do a lot of highway driving and felt the soft top would be to noisy for this type of driving. With the extra insulation under the hood, dash and carpet and the hard top, the Unlimited is remarkably quiet.
I just got a Lange hoist to lift the hardtop off. Lange recently came out with the hoist for the Unlimited and I'm looking forward to pulling the top off without bothering my neighbor.
My wife and I got the Unlimited because it is more practical than the other Wranglers and with the longer wheel base, we will be able to pull the boat we plan on getting in the near future. Not to mention, we do lots of traveling around Florida and need that extra space for our dog, a couple suit cases and a cooler.
I feel that Wranglers are the ultimate 4x4 for the money and the Unlimited just takes that one step further.
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: gpn4ever I test drove an unlimited with my 2 kids in tow.(5&8) I currently have an 01 sahara w/ 22k. The kids said that they had more leg room. When I was on my test drive I really noticed a difference in handling. The longer wheelbase definatly offers a better ride. The unlimited's at my local dealer have hard tops, cheeper than aftermarket hard tops and just about every option that jeep has allowed for this rig. The asking price is approx. $26,800. They have a dealer discount of about $1,800. Out the door would be $24,900 or so.
I called jeep and they said that their current "term" for rebates will end on the 6th of July. I could not get an answer to weather the unlimited will have one or how much it might be.
The question is am I going to purchase one in the near future??? I am still unsure....
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: DJ here is my comment
Steve-stop hatin', pal. This Jeep fan mom & her two daughters turned their nose up at the Liberty, too. We're strictly Wrangler people, but if chasing after the SUV driving, cappucino drinking, Spandex-wearing set will keep the Jeep line from extinction, I say "sell them all you want, Daimler-Chrysler". Anyway-what we REALLY need is an Unlimited with a manual transmission.
I traded in my Sport for a Rubicon last year, trying to improve my trade value while patiently awaiting the 5 speed Unlimited. I'm presently searching for a really nice custom back bench seat with headrests. Anybody out there got a clue. Bolt-in vice drill in would be preferable, so I can reinstall it in my five speed Unlimited
someday when they finally come out with one. Any suggestions anyone?
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| Anonymous |
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00 Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00 |
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Originally posted by: Sam I just test drove the Unlimited. It's much more comfortable on the highway, but has 2 major shortfalls: The "sunroof" sits on your head when open and the tranny is only available in automatic. The dealer a 5-speed is not an option. Guess I won't be buying one.
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