Price is a gripe. Figure about $26,000 on the window sticker, selling for about $24,000 in the real world of discounts and deals.
Jeep says that 74% of Wrangler buyers don't consider any other vehicle. But to open-minded comparison shoppers, it's worth noting that $24,000 would buy a Jeep Liberty Sport with ABS, better stereo, better four-wheel-drive system, more air bags, more room (seats five, carries 1,150 pounds), nicer powertrain, better fuel economy and true off-road capability (though not on par with higher-riding Wrangler's).
The same money also would get you a Ford Escape, Toyota Rav4, Honda CR-V or Kia Sorento.
No, those don't have the same ready-for-anything panache, nor would they perform as well in challenging off-road environments. But their higher comfort levels, better handling, improved fuel economy (Unlimited is rated only 14 mpg in town, 18 on the big road) would make them better day-in, day-out partners.
Though Unlimited remains a choppy, bumpy machine by normal standards, its gentler ride and extra cargo area compared with the standard Wrangler are heaven-sent. And, as the Camp Jeep trails illustrated, Unlimited's extra length imposes little apparent compromise in off-road usefulness.
