Handling at highway speeds has been improved with more-direct steering and retuned suspension, with less wander and sway. The tall-profile, short-wheelbase Wrangler can feel dicey in a variety of driving situations, although it is certainly less susceptible to rollover than the old ones. Still, judicious driving is in order if you want to stay right side up; don’t try to drive it like a sports car.

The ride is fairly jouncy overall, but once you get used to the way it heaves around corners, it’s generally fun to drive and fun for passengers to ride in. It’s all part of the real Jeep experience, just like how awkward it is to get in and out of.

The Wrangler's hardtop can be removed entirely for open-air driving, or a pair of roof sections can be taken off more easily. (Photo: Jeep)

The test Wrangler was outfitted with a removable hardtop instead of a flapping canvas top. The hardtop is a nice piece of work and includes a pair of removable sections over the front seats that allow for open-air driving without the supreme hassle of dismantling and stowing the entire roof. The Jeep has a really nice feel with the sections removed.

Of course, hard-core Jeep folk can still remove the doors and fold down the windshield if they so desire, although because of the power windows and such, there’s a bit more to taking off the doors than there used to be. As for folding the windshield, well …

Jeep prices starts around $22,000, and the Sahara has a base price of $27,940. With options, including $1,715 for the hardtop and associated bits, $1,125 for the automatic, $800 shipping and a few sundry other options, the bottom line came out to $34,425.

The Rubicon model is the top dog for serious off-roading, and priced accordingly. If you have some extra folks to bring along, the four-door Wrangler Unlimited has a totally usable back seat on a stretched wheelbase.

Despite its warts, Wrangler remains a desirable vehicle for all sorts of reasons, especially now that it has decent power and can be gussied up with the features of a well-optioned passenger car. It’s a direct link with the American experience of the past 70 years or so, still sporting an iconic style, only in today’s terms.

Most critically, it succeeds in its stated goal, which is to be as adventurous and fun as possible. Mission accomplished!

Details

Vehicle type: Four-passenger, two-door utility vehicle, four-wheel drive.
Engine: 285 horsepower at 6,400 rpm, 260 pound-feet of torque at 4,800 rpm.
Transmission: Five-speed automatic.
Wheelbase: 95.4 inches.
Overall length: 152.8 inches.
Curb weight: 3,976 pounds.
EPA fuel mileage: 17 city, 21 highway.

Bob Golfen, Automotive Editor for SPEED.com, is a veteran auto writer based in Phoenix, Arizona, with a passion for collector cars, car culture and the automotive lifestyle. SPEED.com fans can email Bob Golfen at