2007 Jeep Wrangler Sahara Road Test
16 janvier 2008
par
Luc Gagné
, Auto123.com
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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 sunAnd 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 transmissionOne-of-a-kind off-roaderAn SUV you love to hate!Interior soundproofing still needs workNon-lockable hoodHeavy, cumbersome removable roof panels Lack of rear-seat access and comfortLack of cargo access and roomLimited rearward visibilityCumbersome tailgate in tight spacesPhoto Credit : Philippe Champoux, Luc Gagné
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