2009 Jeep Wrangler

NEW FOR 2009:

- Sunrider Soft Top and Hill Start Assist now standard on all models

- 17-inch aluminum wheels with on/off-road tires optional on two-door X model

- Rubicon adds standard power windows, power locks, keyless entry, security alarm and sunscreen glass

- Trailer Sway Control added to Trailer Tow Group

- UConnect hands-free connectivity button removed from stereos (UConnect not available on Wrangler)

- Exterior colours: Deep Water Blue and Sunburst Orange added; Steel Blue and Rescue Green discontinued

For 2009, the Jeep Wrangler undergoes only minor changes, all to its list of standard or optional features.

The original rough-and-ready SUV, the Wrangler is available as the two-door Wrangler, or as the four-door Wrangler Unlimited, in X, Sahara and Rubicon trim lines. All use a 3.8-litre V6 with six-speed manual transmission or optional four-speed automatic, and with part-time four-wheel drive.

Features on the Wrangler X include 16-inch steel wheels, Command-Trac four-wheel system, floor console, full-framed metal doors with roll-up windows, swing-away manual mirrors, CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input, two-tone vinyl seats, rear fold-and-tumble bench seat, skid plates, floor mats, tilt wheel, tire pressure monitor warning lamp, Sunrider soft top, removable carpet panels with drain plugs, and variable intermittent wipers.

The Unlimited X adds 17-inch aluminum wheels, locking centre console bin, temperature gauge, compass, fog lamps, two-tone cloth seats, driver's seat height adjustment, 60/40 split-folding reclining rear bench, and cruise control.

The Sahara models add 18-inch aluminum wheels, air conditioning, locking centre console bin, floor mats, temperature gauge, compass, fog lamps, power locks with keyless entry, power windows with one-touch down, security alarm, two-tone cloth seats with Stain Repel fabric, cruise control, leather-wrapped wheel, tubular side steps, heavy-duty suspension, and three-piece modular Freedom Top hardtop.

The Rubicon models are similarly-equipped to the Sahara, but use 17-inch aluminum wheels, Sunrider soft top, Rock-Trac four-wheel system, and performance-tuned suspension, and do not have tubular side steps.

Depending on the model, options on the Wrangler and Unlimited include seat-side airbags, half-metal doors, MyGIG entertainment system, navigation system, hardtop and soft top combination, and trailer tow package.

The Wrangler remains synonymous with off-road capability, enjoying one of the most loyal fan clubs of almost any vehicle, although it's well-behaved on asphalt as well. It's difficult to access the two-door Wrangler's rear seat, and the Unlimited is a better choice if you're consistently putting more than two people in the vehicle. Its longer wheelbase also makes for a smoother ride. The modular Freedom Top requires several steps to remove entirely, but the front section can be removed separately, and while it's not insulated, it still provides more winter protection than the soft top.