WRANGLING A BARGAIN (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

Introductionword count: 82

Bigger, better built, with a far better ride and a diesel engine option at last, the 'JK'-series Jeep Wrangler proved to be something more than a novelty plaything. True, it's still hardly the most practical SUV unless your idea of practicality is wallowing in mud, but in this form, it's usable in Surbiton as well as across the Serengeti. And if you're prepared to put up with a slightly utilitarian feel, it'll reward you with a unique character all of its own.

Modelsword count: 8

(2dr/4dr SUV - 3.6 petrol, 2.8 diesel 4x4)

Historyword count: 162

Back in 1938, the US government's original brief for a 'light reconnaissance vehicle' resulted in the development of the Willys Jeep, and the subsequent production of 368,000 of them for use during World War 2. General George C Marshall described it as "America's greatest contribution to modern warfare". The spiritual successor to the Willys Jeep is the Jeep Wrangler. Much separates the two designs of course. What's ideal for a theatre of war doesn't necessarily work for a family trip to the cinema and over the years, through CJ, YJ and TJ Wrangler models, as different company owners have come and gone, Jeep designers have struggled with the need to develop this icon without losing its distinct appeal. Their biggest challenge came with this 'JK' version, launched in 2007 with the need to justify its existence in a modern SUV market that claims to have an answer to every need. Jeep's response was offer two Wrangler 'firsts': five doors and diesel power.

What You Getword count: 205

The 'JK'-series design is unmistakably a Jeep Wrangler. Iconic features like the seven-bar grille, the fold-flat windscreen and the removable doors are all present and correct and the two-door short wheelbase model should do little to upset diehard enthusiasts. Sales growth though came from the four-door Unlimited version introduced with the 'JK'-series design, a car that looks something like a mini-Hummer and is 50cm longer and 12.7cm wider than its stablemate. Out back, the two-tier tailgate opens to reveal a boot capacity of either 1310 or 2320-litres, depending on whether you fold the 60/40 split rear seat. That extra half a metre's length makes possible a back seat with room for two adults or maybe three kids in a space that though not generous, is perfectly adequate. No, it's not super high quality inside but least you no longer feel you're piloting something that would pass muster as an exhibit in the Imperial War Museum: there's everything you need and nothing you don't with loads of wipe-clean surfaces that encourage you to use the car in the way it was intended, rather than making you feel worried every time you get in with muddy boots. It's really all rather refreshing compared to the SUV norm.

To see the full road test text contact us on 0330 0020 227