2006 Jeep Wrangler Pros and Cons at TrueDelta: Owner Pros and Cons by magnumsmom

Feature availability

The Rubicon Unlimited Hard Top was about the only true off-road vehicle available with interior storage room in our price range. It has stock clearance, skid plates, off-road tires, full size spare, lockers, and other off-road necessities

Powertrain performance

Straight 6 engine 4.0L with plenty of power and proper gearing for off-road performance. 2006 was the last year for the straight 6 so if we wanted another jeep purchased new with the 4.0L straight 6 we needed to order a 2006.

Materials & workmanship

We wanted a new vehicle for off-road (out in the middle of nowhere reliability) use. We really liked our 1996 Cherokee Sport which held up well so we were happy to be able to purchase another Jeep.

Reliability & durability

We put 219K miles on our 1996 Cherokee Up-Country with the original clutch. The engine and drive train are still in excellent condition with extensive off-road driving and that vehicle is still on (and off!) the road. The Rubicon has the same basics.

Fuel economy

The low gearing for off road means 16 mpg around town and only 18-20 mpg highway. The brick-like aerodynamics means 15-16 mpg on the highway with a head wind.