Jeep Wrangler 1997-2006 used car review

The Jeep Wrangler is exceptional off the road, and fun for summer roof-down motoring.

Richard Edwards

Expert Reviewer | Auto Media Group

Exterior

Drive

Safety

Value

Overall score , 2.3 out of 5

The good

Excellent off road with the right experience and preparation
Fun open-air motoring in warmer weather
Tight turning circle handy in the city

The not-so-good

Only basic safety features, with no fasteners for child seats
Engine and transmission leaks common
Soft top makes driving noisy

Inside and out

On the road

Safety

Reliability

Cost of ownership

Buyer's guide

Variants

Timeline

Details

Review vehicle

1997 Jeep Wrangler 'TJ' Sport

Price

$15,500 to $18,000 for models which have travelled 70,000 to 120,000km

Engine

4-litre six-cylinder, 142kW/305Nm (claimed)

Transmission

Three-speed automatic, four-wheel drive

Servicing

12,000km or 12 months

Spare wheel

Full size wheel

Fuel economy

12.2-litres per 100km (claimed)

Fuel type

Regular

Length

3840mm

Width

1730mm

Height

1780mm

Towing capacity

650kg (unbraked), 900kg (braked

Turning circle

10.6m

Image gallery

Richard Edwards

Expert Reviewer | Auto Media Group

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