1999
JEEP WRANGLER
Vehicle Overview
Summary
Pros
Unmatched off-road capability, overflowing with character,
dual airbags, fun to drive, speedy with manual transmission
Soft top is fun
What's New for 1999
Jeep has improved off-road capability by increasing the
axle ratio offered with the 4.0-liter engine and revising
the torsion bar for better steering. Optional this year
are a tilting driver seat, automatic speed control, a CD/stereo,
a new Smart Key Immobilizer theft-deterrent system WITH
AUTO UNLOCKING DOOR LOCKS.
Jeep Wranglers have long been the standard for those explorers
who truly wish to go where no one has gone before. The go-anywhere
ability of the Wrangler has been improved by the Quadra-coil
suspension which allows an additional seven inches of articulation
over the old leaf spring set-up; thus resulting in increased
approach and departure angles. Jeep boasts that the Quadra-coil
suspension, as well as improved shocks and tires, also greatly
improves the Wrangler's on-road manners.
The Wrangler receives minor adjustments
to the powertrain by combining the Dana 44 rear axle with
a 3.73 axle ratio, replacing the 3.55 axle ratio with the
4.0-liter engine. And Jeep claims that a revised torsion
bar provides improved steering response. Nobody, however,
will mistake this vehicle for a smooth-running family sedan;
the Wrangler is very much a truck. A five-speed manual transmission
remains standard and a three-speed automatic is available
for those who don't plan on doing any serious off-roading.
Over the past two years, Jeep has
done a great job improving the Wrangler. Gone are some of
the nagging complaints we had about safety, wind noise and
engine roar; what remains is a solid truck with hard-core
capabilities and rugged good looks. This is obviously not
the truck for everybody, but those willing to put up with
a cloth interior and a little road noise will be rewarded
with an amazingly fun vehicle. Hey, they even brought back
those snazzy round headlights ... what's not to like?
