2006 vs 2007 Jeep Rubicon…
Deciding between the 2006 Jeep Rubicon and the newly redesigned 2007 has been difficult.
The Superficial Stuff
Color: Black, flame red, and impact orange are completely out of the running; not interested. The green and midnight blue models look nice, but not enough to go for one of those. The light khaki wasn’t light enough online, although close to acceptable in person. I just don’t care for the khaki with the ugly “different shade of khaki” tops, and the black hard top just wasn’t contrasty enough. That potentially leaves stone white, bright silver, and solar yellow. Fairly iffy about the yellow, white is a bit too “Daisy Duke”, and silver is a bit too “Lara Croft”. Still leaning heavily towards the white at this point.
Interior: While I normally prefer a lighter color interior, I like the look of the dark slate gray as opposed to the khaki, even though the khaki might be better at disguising dirt and grime. They just don’t seem to get “khaki” right for my tastes. A khaki interior is available only with the stone white, not the bright silver — although dark slate is an option with either color. Leaning towards dark slate; maybe it’s because the car I’ve driven for the past ten years has a beige interior. Granted, it’s also a white car, and for some reason I’m still considering a white Rubicon.
Power: 6-speed manual transmission. Automatic isn’t even an option to consider. It might be a bit hard to get used to the position of the 6th gear as it’s scarily close to reverse.
Options: I definitely want a set of metal half doors, probably in addition to the standard full doors. Still confused about various tops and how they work or don’t work with the different door options.
The 2006 TJ or the 2007 JK?
The 2006 TJ Rubicon comes standard with an AMC 190HP, 4.0L, Power Tech inline-six, considered one of the best off-road engines ever made. Also standard are 31-inch tall LT245/75R16 tires on 16-inch aluminum wheels. Music should sound pretty good coming from a 7-speaker system that includes a full center console-mounted subwoofer, 2 midrange speakers in the instrument panel, and 2 full-range speakers mounted in the overhead speaker pods. Cool!
On the other hand, the 2007 JK Rubicon has a standard Chrysler 3.8L, 12-valve, 205HP, V6 engine. Seventeen-inch aluminum wheels sporting LT225/75R17 mud terrain tires are also standard. The six-speaker stereo system has an MP3 input audio jack, ideal for my iPod. Rock rails are standard, unlike on the 2006. This next-generation Jeep is 5.5 inches longer and 1.4 inches taller than the existing model, with a 2.1-inch-longer wheelbase and 2.4-inch-wider track, but with a tenth of an inch less ground clearance. Despite it being taller, there’s a fraction less headroom in front and back in the JK, although shoulder room has increased in both areas. Where the 2007 exceeds over the 2006 is storage behind the back seats: over 17 cubic feet vs slightly less than 12 cubic feet on the 2006 TJ. Not sure I care for the single-hinge windshield vs two hinges. Both model years have dual Dana 44 axles, a heavy-duty transfer case with an ultra-low 4:1 ratio, and 4-wheel disc brakes. The optional security package for the 2006 comes standard on the 2007. Turning diameter is the same. Everything else is little details.
The Jeep forums are abuzz about which engine to covet. The die-hards are asking “why fix what works?” and the modernists are answering “better gas mileage, more power, newer technology!” The 4.0L of the TJ was introduced in 1987 with a Renault engine control system. In 1991, after Chrysler acquired the brand, the control computer was redesigned and the intake ports were raised. Chrysler also enlarged the throttle body and redesigned the intake and exhaust manifolds for more efficiency, and the fuel injectors were replaced with higher flowing units. Small changes were made to the cylinder head and engine block every couple of years until 1998, after which it has remained mostly the same. The 3.8L of the new JK was introduced in 1991 into Chrysler’s Fifth Avenue, Imperial, and minivans (yuck!) and it, too, has had some changes; the intake was redesigned in 1994 and the compression ratio was increased in 1998. The real claim to fame of the 3.8L is the addition of a variable intake system in 2001, increasing horsepower and foot-pounds of torque, but according to the forums the jury is still out as to whether it will have a negative effect on low, rock-climbing RPMs.
The “new” 3.8L engine just doesn’t seem so new to get all that worked up about since its genesis was only a few years after the 4.0L. So, do I get the last year of a proven classic, or do I wait for the as-yet-unpublished price for a newly designed Wrangler that will probably take a full model year to get the kinks out? And why is it that some aftermarket products don’t seem to be available for the 2006’s? I need some advice from a Jeep owner or two…
UPDATE: Yes, I bought the ‘06. And I absolutely love it!
I don’t get that. It’s not like a certain body only can fit certain interior components. This is color. They have khaki seats. The only difference between white and silver bodies is the color they are painted. Why can’t the khaki seats be put in a silver body? (Or, depending on what order things are done on the automated assembly line, why can’t a body containing khaki seats be painted white?)
Ok, I just bought A new JK~yeah I know it isnt out yet… Military Privlages(lol)
A new Rubicon with bells and whistles will set you back 34,650. And thats the bottom line price w/out dealing with Dealers.
As far as which one is better, well see. It was the new designed hard top that sold me, but to each is own.
I think you’ll find that turning radius is not the same–larger turning circle on the new JK. The Dana 44 axle on the new JK is , at a minmum, wider than the one on the TJ, and may have incorporated other changes even though it is still called a Dana 44. Springs are softer on the JK for a better ride on the road. Plastic bumbers, more airbags and other new features might make the new one a little lesss expensive to insure. If you want power windows, you’ll have to get the new one. If you like the classic narrow TJ, you can easily reach across the Jeep to roll down the passenger window. Apparently production is a little slower than expected due to assembly line glitches–normal in a totally new vehicle. I was going to wait and test drive a new 2-door, but love my ‘04 Unlimited so much that in a moment of weakness I bought an 06 Rubicon, which I love even more than the Unlimited. I’ll still go and test drive an ‘07, and if I really like it beter than the ‘06, I can always sell the ‘06 and get a newer one after they work any bugs out. I want to see what real world reviews have to say, too, not just the car-selling magazines thatn will always say mostly positive things about new vehicles. Plus, I really like the tighter turning radius on the TJ. Good luck.
Well, I really didn’t expect the turning radius to be the same on the JK, but the specs on the Jeep website had exact same number for both — so, despite common sense, assumed it was correct. Buying the ‘06 in the morning!
I recently purchased an ‘06 and love it. The reason I went with the ‘06 is the 4.0 which has its’ roots back to the 258’s. I have had Jeeps with the 258/4.0 since ‘76 and can tell you IMHO there is no better engine. I drove the ‘07 at Camp Jeep and it’s very nice and the V6 is very quite. However, I feel much better knowing the the 4.0 is under the hood of my Rubi.
So did you buy it? I had the same dilemma a couple of weeks ago. I finally convinced my wife to let me get one, and then realized they were coming out with a new one. But, I knew the new ones would be much more expensive and possibly hard to get, so I went ahead and got the 06 (Unlmiited Rubicon). I’m in love. It is awesome. The fuel economy of the 07 might be nice to have as I’m getting a shade over 13mpg average. But, do you really buy a Jeep if you are concerned about fuel economy?
Yes, I did! Unfortunately, just over two weeks after I bought it, it’s in the shop. There’s a problem with the lifter that originated at the factory. Parts are on order. I miss driving it already, despite the 14.5 mpg!
UPDATE: Now that jeep has published their new prices, I recived a huge savings. My new Rubicon is loaded with every option I could get~28,800 out the door. I think this could be the begining of a great relationship! (Thanks Jeep)
So did you get the 06 or the 07? I’m running into a similar situation now trading in my Cherokee for an 06 Rubi…or waiting it out for the 07.
Had an 06 rubicon for 1200 miles. The machine fell apart…literally! Fog lamps broke, radiator leaked, rear seal out, trany shook. The only thing worse, was the customer service. Still waiting to see if they can keep me Jeep…I bet not!!
Hi there, i’m an italian dude livin (and working) in Mexico. I own a 06 Rubi, and imho, it’s better than the 07. As somebody said above, “why fix if it work”? i simply love the i6 HO 4L, and that “old style feeling” that give me. But as everything, it’s just my personal thought. And other thing i don’t really apreciate of the 07 it’s the design.. like in jeep they lost the sight of what it’s a “cult truck”. And the interior of the 07 looks somewhat…not so rude as the classic wrangler. Of course that’s just my humble opinion folks. And sorry for my horrible english
Which model did you end up buying? I had to get a freon recharge on my ‘06 Rubicon, but other than that it’s great so far. I’m having some wheel wobble (vibration at 53-60 mph) on my ‘04 unlimited–difficulty getting the factory Goodyear tires and wheels balanced. Have a lifetime balance and rotate deal at Goodyear, but they are saying it may not be opossible to get them to ride right due to aggressive tread and normal wear, plus two of the tires are out of round (they say). I already spent an extra $100 at the dealer to have them tell me the alighnemt was fine. I may have to pay the dealer check it out; seems like you can go to four different places and they’ll tell you four different things about the problem, but still can’t get it to ride right. Hope yours is doing well after the initial lifter issue. I test drove a 2WD ‘07 4dr and wan’t too impressed, except that the driver’s seat was much better the old seats. It was quiet and smooth with a nice ride, but didn’t have a Jeep feel to it. They look good and will undoubtedly be good sellers. While I was at the dealership an owner of the new 4dr was back to get a problem with the front door latches fixed.
I bought a stone-white 2006 Rubicon. Having read your comment, I revisited the 2007 specs and was very surprised to see that I had overlooked the disappointing fact that the 2007 Wrangler is available in a 2WD option. That’s just wrong! Discounting Cherokees, Libertys, Commanders, other non-Willys-like models, and US Postal Service models, Jeeps just aren’t supposed to have two wheel drive. Buying a 2WD Wrangler is like bringing home a lesbian Playboy Playmate: sure, it looks great and your friends will envy you today. But when the looks have faded, what do you have left? An expensive-to-maintain body that isn’t nearly as fun as you thought it would be…
That’s great!!! rotfl!!!
Nice Buy
Just ordered an 07 Unlimited Rubi. I have owned/built Jeeps since the early 80s and can say after doing some pretty exhaustive research and a test drive in an 07 Sahara Unlimited, that the new one is a keeper. I am very satisfied with the rig and am anxiously awaiting my lift, tires, bumpers, etc. I am having it built with all the “nice to have stuff” that, I too was staunchly opposed to for many years in a Jeep.
I suppose the bottom line is simply this: If you want a tube buggy, build it…..If you want a very trail capable rig with room to spare and not have to work on it every weekend, buy the 07 Rubi.
I agree with Mike (comment #15), I took out an 06 sport, 06 Rubicon and the 07 unlimited Rubicon. I have a family and want to play on the weekend. The 06 Rubicon as great as it was will not fit the dog and kid on a weekend camping excursion. The 07 was cheaper and provides that extra room I need to have for a vehicle. Buying a fixer up and paying for insurance on a 3rd vehicle is expensive not to mention time consuming.
The only sore point to this purchase is the wife is adament not to learn to drive a stick! I prefer the 6 speed but might have to settle on an automatic, this time.
Any thoughts on an 07 Unlimited Rubicon automatic? (don’t flame me with insults, I would like constructive insight into this)
Thanks
The 2007 is about $1,000 cheaper than its 2006 counterpart. According to the specs on the Jeep site, the main differences (other than styling) between the 2006 Rubicon and the 2007 Unlimited Rubicon is that the 2006 has bigger standard tires, 15% smaller turning diameter, and 22% higher ground clearance. The 2007 has 43% more payload capacity, 10% more fuel tank capacity, and weighs 20% more.
It’s really just about what you want to do with it. The bigger tires and smaller width, length, and turning radius on the 2006 Rubi makes it much more fun to drive off-road. The extra capacity of the 2007 Unlimited makes road trips and around-town driving more practical, although the extra weight offsets the increased fuel tank capacity. If it’s mainly intended to be a commuting vehicle, get the automatic if you want.
My decision to buy the 2006 Rubicon (not the 2007 or Unlimited) also took into consideration the facts that we already own an economical SUV and I can just purchase a towing rig and trailer when (not if) I want the extra cargo space without having to settle for a less-fun driving experience. I’m sure someone will take offense at this, but it’s just my personal opinion — the 4-door 2007 just looks to me like it’s trying to be more like a Hummer. And the H3 is just trying to look like a Jeep. Just don’t get the 2WD option!!!!
My wifes vehicle is a honda civic, a really good fun driving vehicle but is not that big. Having two smaller vehicles is just not practical since we have one daughter and a 80 lb german sheppard. We like to hike (geocaching) a lot on weekends and now were into snow shoeing. I looked at the FJ cruiser from Toyota but is much heavier and has worse fuel economy than the wrangerl.
We flipped for it and I lost so it looks like it might be the automatic. Still have one more play before I sign the dotted line.
No one has answered on how the 4 speed automatics compare to the 6 speed manual?
Stumbled across this looking for info/opinions, so thanks to everyone who has commented. I just ordered an ‘07 Rubicon myself (green). I, like the person above, spent a lot of time debating the color for some reason. Didn’t want the “flashy” colors and didn’t want black because it will get dirty and black is the worst. I used to have a 2000 Anniversary Edition and I am curious how they will compare as I have not driven the ‘07, just bought it. I know, probably not smart, but I have had 4 Jeeps and loved everyone of them, so I assume the same will happen here. I see a lot of people buying the Unlimited though - I don’t understand why? Personnally, I think they are goofy looking. If you need more space, which I assume would be the only reason, then I’d go with something else for the “family” vehicle. We have a Grand Cherokee and that thing is nice for trips.
The automatic isn’t at all bad and seems faster accelerating from a stop. The 6 speed is fun and takes more skill to drive, and would be better at downhill rockcrawling. The new 07s have “Drive By Wire” which is supposed to make them much smoother than the 06s. The 07 4-dr has a totally different feel than the 06s due to a softer suspension and probably the “Drive by Wire,” and although they take a lot more space to turn around in than the 2-dr model, they still don’t seem too bad compared to other SUVs. i’m still glad to have an 06 6 speed Rubicon, but might consider the new larger Wrangler or 4-dr (4×4 only) in another year or two.
I just bought my 06 Rubi unlimited and I love it! I looked at the 07s and thought ….Nawwwww! I want a jeep that looks like a jeep not a dandified hummer. The 2WD option……I won’t even mention ewwwwww! I traded in my 05 rocky mountain edition wrangler and what a difference between the two. I get a better ride nicer looks sat radio ( which I have become hooked on ) and I can go places I was scared to go before…. with no problem. This thing is limited only by your guts. all in all it was a good thing to change…….even my wife who was not real thrilled about trading in the 05 for another of the same thing. Agrees it is a better rig and was worth the extra $$.
Congratulations! I love my 06 Rubi, too!! It’s only my first addition (the first of many to come!) to the Jeep since I’ve bought it, but I just installed a new TJ Wrangler Kwick Kit for it last night. Have to start somewhere, right?!
My wife told me to get the ‘06 Rubi. She said the ‘07 was cheaply made, and I agree. As soon as I pushed in the plastic grille, I knew that there was something wrong. Yes, the new breed has all the amenities, but what are amenities in a Wrangler? I think the ‘07 is more style than substance, and I am proud to drive the culmination of the true Wrangler line, the 2006 Rubicon.
i was in the same boat as a good majority of the people involved with this discussion. 2006 or 2007. i’ll admit i’m far from a veteran when it comes to jeeps, as this was my first time purchasing one.. any and all experience comes from the thrills i gained riding in the passengers seat of my friends TJ’s and CJ’s.. but i’ve always been a firm believer in ‘if it isn’t broke, don’t fix it’ — i also have this assumption that if it looks less capable off-road, it probably is.. and to me, the 2007 just looks too ‘pretty’. another factor that helped make my decision, valid or not, was the price. i had a hard time grasping the lower window sticker on a newer vehicle.. what made the 2007 so much cheaper than the 2006? all previous experince told me you get what you pay for, so i went with the 2006.. however, i decided to purchase the X model instead of the rubicon since i plan on replacing the suspension, tires, and gears anyways.. i have to say i’ve been thoroughly impressed with the performance, even entirely stock. the first weekend after purchase my fiance and i took it out to ocatillo with another couple who had just purchased a 2006 as well, but the rubicon model.. though i’m sure there were aspects a more experienced person would notice that i did not, besides ground clearance it seemed my little Jeep X could go anywhere they could.. i love my wrangler so much i’m already making plans to get the fiance one.. but i’m leaning toward the 2007 4dr 4wd for her as it seems to be a little more city friendly and has room for groceries.. yet still has the capability to go basically anywhere she needs to go..
Maybe this will work this time (I have left comments twice and not seen any of them!).
Had an opportunity to check out the new Rubicons! Ouch!!!! Has anyone looked at how low the rear shock mounts are??? They extend below the bottom of the rear differential!!!! Other than that, I think the 07s will be great!
Currently have a challenge going with the local Jeep - a new 07 versus my friend’s 04 Rubi!!! Dealer says the new 07 will walk over the 04!!! We shall see — as soon as he can get his hands on one for off-road testing! Says all the Rubis coming in right now are pre-sold
And this dealer says he will see me one at dealer invoice!!! No dealer profit, etc!!!! Again we shall see as my purchasing timefram looks like next spring!
Take care,
Paul
No such thing as “no dealer profit”!
That’s the truth, even if you do get a good deal.
For those of you who ordered the 2007 Rubicons. Were you told how long it would take for it to be built? I ordered one a month ago and they told me about 12 weeks. Just wondering what other have been told.
Enjoyed your ramblings so I thought I’d let you know I just bought by 07 Rub 2 days ago and I LOVE it. When it came down to it for me the 06 lost the debate, though it was a tough call especially with the dealer incentives to get rid of the 06’s (that almost changed my mind). I’ve had an 83 CJ5, 86 CJ7, and a 98 Sahara. Currently own an 87 since new and a 76 Commando. I don’t think you can go wrong though, whatever decision is right for you…
I bought a 2007 Rubicon, and previously owned a TJ Sport. I don’t feel much difference in the 3.8, or 4.0. I do like some of the new features on the 2007. A/C, locks on the storage areas (glove compartment, center console), bigger tires, better stereo. But the biggest was the lower price on the new model. I get so many “double takes” on my Rubicon. I had it “in the snow” with this recent “blizzard” in Colorado. I went through 3 foot snow drifts. But, that’s what makes it a JEEP.
Interestng reading, but I didn’t read anything about some really important features of the 07 Ruby. I drive an 03 and I love it. Experience does bring wisdom however, and I believe this is what Jeep has drawn on to improve upon the new Rubicon. The very first thing I noticed was the lack of the “shovel” skid plate which has been hanging beneath every Rubicon from 03 thru 06 (all TJs for that matter). Next we have a shorter body, but more interior room, with a longer wheel base, but no loss of turning radius. There was also no mention of the 100% stronger frame with 50% more torsional ridigidty. The same is true of the standard electronically disconnecticing sway bar, NO MENTION! The Dana 44 axles have been beefed up, front and rear. The lockers are now electronically activated rather that air activated to increase reliabilty. Ground clearance has been increased, and fuel economy is better. If you want to upgrade to bigger tires it only takes a 3″ lift to get 35s under the new JK. This is way easier than on the TJ. On top of all this, the new Ruby drives like a dream. I do like the “seat of the pants” torque of the old 4.0 but the new engine is perfectly fine if you remember to keep the revs up highr than you would on the old engine. I could go on and talk about the improvements in saftey with the standard ESP system, but I wanted to keep my comments to just JEEP stuff.
I bought my 06 Jeep Rubicon, 0% interest life of loan, no payments for 6 months, $100 over factory invoice, think you’ll find that deal on an 07 ? My philosophy is…NEVER buy anything until it has been proven, especially a 4wd vehicle, I guarantee Jeep is going to find bugs in the 07, Have fun hanging around the Jeep Dealer when the rest of us are getting muddy ! oh yea..Electric windows..one more thing to fix..come on guys/girls..don’t be a sucker to the “marketing experts”. you’re gonna see those New 07 Jeep 4 doors with those 20″ pimp rims & low profile tires..rolling around town with the loud base stereo…get real ! go buy an H3, at least those don’t have a “MINIVAN” engine. I can go on & on ..Modular Top ? can you roll those up on the go ? NOT … P.S. if you need more room..hang your arm out the window.. ; )
Re: Comment #32
Just not sure where to start!!!!
Electric windows??? Never! That’s why I’m special ordering mine! Don’t need all that extra stuff that is coming on all the “regular” Rubicons at the dealers!
4doors? Yes (but not for me!)? I know of several individuals who make Jeeping a family affair! Last time I attempted to get in or out of the back seatt in a pre-07 model, I though I’d have to be a contorionist. Since it’s just me/myself/I, I will stay with the 2-door; otherwise I probably would have bought an Unlimited!
An H3???? Never (at least for me)? Apparently you have not seen how wide the trails are here in eastern WA/northern ID. I’ve seen some where Rubicons did get treee scratches, so a Hummer would NEVER make it!
As for the modular top!!! Yes (but again not for me - I save around 1K by just getting the soft top). And yes, you can, sort of, roll them open — the part over the driver and passenger do come off!
As for a deal — I can get invoice at the local dealer! And, from the information I’ve been given, a dealer in Kellogg Idaho will sell them at below invoice! Yes, I know, some will say there’s no such thing! Well, you need to contact that dealer and verify it! (the quick answer is the ‘dealer holdback’ which amounts to 2% to 3% on Wranglers!).
I could also probably go on and on, but see comment #31 - he’s pointed a lot of the improvements (I know this individual personnaly) and he’s got his facts right!!!!
On the trail (with my 07 Rubi!
I bought a new 06 rubicon 3 weeks ago, I did not like the looks of the 07 at all, first thing in my mind was it looks like a mini hummer. The dealer had three 06 jeeps left, and promised a screamin deal, after several hours at the dealership I drove away at 6000 under msrp. I intended to buy a new FJ Cruiser, but them things are flyin off the lots so quick that none of the toyota dealerships would deal on them at all. The jeep dealership even gave me 3000 more for my trade than the best toyota dealership! This is my first jeep, I wanted something that would perform really well off road and am very happy with my choice.
Mark in Colorado
I agree with the JK looking like a mini-Hummer, that’s why I waited until it was available with half-framed doors before ordering mine.
Most of my driving will be on the road, with occasional ventures into the Everglades, so I didn’t see the need for the Rubicon package. I went with the “S” package on the Wrangler Unlimited X, with the 6-speed manual, 4×4, and trailer tow group (for the Dana 44 rear axle and 4.10 axle ratio). I definitely went with the soft top, mostly because summer rain showers here in South Florida seem to always pop up out of nowhere.
Even in 1996, I wasn’t impressed with the TJ (I had a YJ at the time), so maybe I am biased, but I really think the JK Unlimited (with the traditional Jeep half doors) is one of the best looking Wranglers ever.
I will let you know when mine finally shows up at the dealership.
Jake in Fort Myers
The 07 rubicons are sooo nice, maybe too nice to off road? The 07 really are a different breed from the 06, yes the break away sway bar, and the ESP are electronic and yes there is always a risk when on the trails. The sway bar can not be disconnected or reconnected unless on level ground. But I just bought the 07 Rubicon for over 30 grand! Ouch! But I have all the good stuff, and I chose manual windos, also the seats in the 07 raise and lower. But everything on the 07 is beefed up, and I am happy with my purchase. I plan on testing it on some tight switchbacks! H3 follow me if you can fit! Yes I suggest getting the 07 rubicon, but they are hard to find and cost over 30 grand! without lift kit, winch, CB, or the pirate flag! Good luck and you really save money if you were to get the sahara. Bottom line, the 07 is a fair price.
I am very frustrated on the unavailibilty of updates and ad-ons for the ‘06 Rubicon. Glad you like your’s. When you find a site for them let me know, as cor now the search goes on…..
What parts can’t you find.There are more aftermarket parts for late model jeeps then there ever was for early models
I have had my 07 for a week now,have driven an 05 damm glad didn’t have the money then because the 2007 is crazy really like it,still getting use to 3.8(have had cj7 with 4.2 and 98 with 4.0(and 53 m38) every thing I hated about older jeeps has been fixed(for my tastes anyways)3.8 with 6 speed is nuts,work really well together but still yet to go for a good crawl.interior great freedom top is great(I live in a condo so storing a hard top is a pain,this is the best of both worlds,takes about 2 minutes to remove front sections and throw in back)electronic diff locks so far work great.one thing I’m about 5′9 170 lbs and I love the interior but bigger people might have difficulty(headroom).this is the only thing that I would say the tj has over 2007,this thing is just sick(fully loaded $32,000CDN in calgary alberta)this thing is also turning heads,have had a lot of interest
Wow, I was thinking of trading in my 05 rubi for the 07 to get more room for camping/fishing trips. I looked in the engine compartment and all I can say is wow. I see alot of extra stuff making it a pain to work on in a pinch. The gf went with me, she said it looked cute. she seemed to like it, took the x for a test drive since they didn’t have a rubi on the lot. It rides alot nicer than my rubi and way nicer than my 79 cj but there were some things I just didn’t like. It feels more like my Ford Explorer I had, Jeep isn’t pressed into the tub like my tj and cj. Too much stuff in the engine compartment, and the engine didn’t impress me. I think I’ll wait to see if the diesel is put into this thing. Not a bad jeep, just don’t feel right for me right now.
I just purchased a 2006 Wrangler SE on March 5, 2007. It’s great and better than the new 2007 model. I didn’t want a pony (the 2007) when I could buy a stallion (2006). I upgraded my tires with new 15×8 Mohave American Racing Rims and 31×10.5×15 BFGoodrich AT/KO tires! It looks good and kicks ášš!
wow Ive just bought a new 2007 Jeep Rubicon this jeep live up to true jeep history i am very impressed with this jeep.it is the best one I have owned sence my Laredo i owned some yrs back altho ive owned a few this one seems to top them all …………Dan Terry
Why buy something you have to upgrade? I have the 2007 Silver Rubicon, traded the 2006 Unlimited. I have 32″ offroad wheels, rock rails, sirius, power everything, T-TOPS, and its still a WRANGLER. No comparison, get the ‘07.
I brought a new 2006 Rubicon to replace my 1983 CJ. I think it was the best move I could have made. The new jeep takes me any place the CJ would. The new JK just looks to long. Some small places can be done!
Earle
Hopefully you bought something by now……I have a 2006 Rubicon Unlimited - awesome vehicle. I don’t think it matters which way you go in the grand scheme - they are both capable vehicles - I chose the ‘06 because I like steel fenders, less plastic on the bumpers and the door handles on the ‘07 are just awful - yeah probably designed so you could use them with gloves - but come on how many times are you going to be wearing gloves compared to when not ? goofy looking. Drop the top and enjoy………
I just bought 2007 my 9th jeep since 92 i am totaly impressed by the proformance of the jk the ride is also incredible looking forward to many great years can;t wait to hit the trails
the jk also has higher and wider fenders that provide more clearance for larger after market tires and are easier to take of (as well as look a whole lot better in my opinion). The articulation is also greatly improved.
Ok, it’s a magazine review, but its JP mag. I really like the write up and the questions and complaints it addresses. I have the benefit of being overseas deployed and we get pretty good deals out here. Just ordered my 08 Rubi today! (which btw start production in July07 and prolly hit dealers in Sept07 and will be at home waiting for me in Feb08 =D )
http://www.jpmagazine.com/roadtests/154_0611_2007_wrangler_jk_pros_and_cons/
Both AMC & Chrysler really “Screwed Up” Jeep… “Real Jeeps” have 24volt electrical systems (Water Tight)Engine/Driveline, A 15,000lb PTO Winch… “Functional” Front & Rear bumpers… No Computer… No Plastic… No “Jap Parts”…
You have all been great with the input! I owned a Laredo back in 87, loved it then and am thinking about revisiting! But times have changed…now there’s 3 kids and a big Golden Retriever I need to lug around! I think this will work for me but something I wondered about was the tops. How is the sound and warmth with both types of tops?? We’re here in Boston and see it all for weather, I don’t care much, but got to think about the kids. I know they will love mommy’s Jeep though (I’m thinking Rubicon-4 door of course!)…hëll, they liked the Honda Element the rental place gave us one time!!!
Can’t wait to have a fun vehicle again! Help???
I just love my 2-door half metal door soft top only Rubicon, I’d say go to a dealer and see e if the space requirements would be enough. With your children you’d definitely want a 4-door. I don’t know, in the 4-door, how much space there is behind the back seat - enough for a place for a dog? With me, it’s just me, myself, and I so I removed the rear seat - gave me a lot of space!
I believe that if you end up buying one, you won’t regret it!
Do you have the window sticker for your Jeep Rubicon? When we bought our new Rubicon we did not receive the window sticker & the dealer said they could not provide it. I’d really like to get a copy & I am trying to track down a way to find it.
Never heard of a dealer not being able to produce a window sticker! I’d be talking to the sales manager. Failing that, the general manager of the dealership!
Your dealer should be able to provide you with a copy of the “VIP Summary report.” It shows everything on your Jeep. Failing that, I e-mailed DC Customer Assistance (not sure of the new Chrysler e-mail address you need) and received a copy of the “Build Sheet” (you can see the “Build Sheet” on my website at http://www.dog-walker.us/07Rubicon.htm).
Hope this helps,
Paul
Sorry, chrysler took over AMC Renault in 1987. The 4.0 was available in the Cherokee with Chrysler fuel injection. In 1992, the YJ AMC 4.2 carb engine was replace with the 4.0 H.0 found in the cherokees. Mainly to answer the fuel starvation when climbing.
My original text above:
That could probably be clarified as:
The end result is the same. My purpose was to highlight the changes, not necessarily the acquisition.
Ive also bought a 06 silver rubicon with a hard top….MTR’s….its amazing, my baby! i love it so much and am still very happy with it. i love the fact that like you said it can be my daily driver….but i can take it any where else i want and it can romp with the big boys and do better than most regular rigs with out having to put too much work and money into it. one of my fav things to do is go camping and off roading…ive gone up black diamond trails in oregon…moved to arizona and cant wait to start exploring around here as well. i babyed it a lot didnt want to hurt it, but my boyfriend proved what it could do with nothing but a little love taps on the rocker panels and bumpers….its the most exciting thing! i want to very soon get a 5.5in long arm rubicon lift and 35in tires, im really not sure what i will do about the wheels because i love the look of my stock jeep wheels….i want to keep it very simple and clean but nice…maybe a nice new bumper and new tail lights will come later too…..expensive toy but i love it! sooo worth it!!!
I bought a used 06 Rubicon with only 44,000 miles. I have already had to replace the 6-speed tranny and am now having to replace the control arms as well. I am trying to find out info on the quality of these vehicles. I previously owned 2 4×4 cherokees and had no problems whatsoever. I could go everywhere in them. I do love my Rubi but am displeased with the problems I have had with it. Is there some kind of factory defect that would cause these problems?