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Wrangler Unlimited needs a diesel
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Author:  BiodieselJeep.com [ Wed Sep 27, 2006 4:41 pm ]
Post subject:  Wrangler Unlimited needs a diesel
Just got back from testing out a Wrangler Unlimited. The dealer knows I want only diesels, and they know I know that the Unlimited has diesel as an option overseas. But he calls me 'cause he knows how much I am jonsing for this Jeep.

So what do I think about the W.U.? Well, it actually NEEDS a diesel, and I don't think it is just me. Its a heavy beast with a much smoother than usual ride for a Wrangler (even smoother than a KJ). But that is because it is freakin' huge, bigger than a GC and about a large as the Commander (Longer, but not as tall). And because of that, it needs a beefier engine. It needs a little more "pull", and the best way I can think of doing that is to put a diesel in there. Maybe even something bigger than our 2.8 CRD they are using in Europe.

Meanwhile, it is a nice Jeep. And, to the relief of those who have been following the Compass debacle, it is a Jeep with a capital "J". Lots of ground clearance, nice sized tires, though the underside center has a low point that should make the over-angle a bit worse than you would hope. You can fit in the thing (I'm 6'4") as well or better than the KJ...the roll bar isn't a problem (someone stated that on this forum somewhere). Tougher, thicker trim pieces (door-latches, handles, etc)that look way more durable than the thinner pieces we are used to. I hate to say this, but some of the trim remindsme of the Toyota FJ's "toy"-like use of basic , bulky shapes....but I'm OK with that. More driver footroom than the KJ, and a heck of a lot of back-seat passenger room..minimal hump. The back-seat seat headreasts do a clever fold-back thing when you bring them down and the seats lay flat (I removed my headrests on the KJ for that reason). Somehow my left elbow couldn't find a spot to rest while I drove. It was pretty quite in there. The wheel selection is on a dinky shifter, sort of a change from most Jeeps, looks like it could use viagra. We only hit roads so I couldn't check out the off-roading. The suspension was stiff enough for me to trust it, but the ide was smooth enough to make me suspicious.

Overall Impression: hey, its one of the only 4 door soft-tops out there...and the ONLY 4 door soft-top SUV out there since...WW2? Its the ultimate summer Jeep. And its a real Jeep, much to my relief. My dealer drives a Commander, and is thinking of switching. You can trust him because he absolutely hates the Compass, offered that info before I could ask. He won't look at the thing, and they hide it on the lot. His quote: "I'm a Chrystler/Dodge/Jeep dealer. I sell Jeeps to people who need Jeeps. Jeeps are the #1 selling SUV in the northeast. I sell cars to people who need cars. What do I need that inbred thing around here for?"

By the way, we played with his DC computer and the GC can't be ordered with a diesel yet...so not price info yet on the new engine. But the bare-bones Unlimited is $22k, while the not so bare GC is $30. That makes the Unlimited a pretty darn good deal for its size, but the model I was in with all the fixings was close to $30. If the bare bones diesel WU was $25, it would sell the pants off the KJ CRD.
Author:  alljeep [ Wed Sep 27, 2006 9:06 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Wrangler Unlimited needs a diesel
BiodieselJeep.com wrote:
You can fit in the thing (I'm 6'4") as well or better than the KJ...the roll bar isn't a problem (someone stated that on this forum somewhere).


I stated that at my 6'9" height, the roll bar is a definite problem. With the seat all the way back and down I can drive it, but if I off road it I will be bashing the rear center of my head on it.

If I were rear ended in a car accident, it would almost kill me for sure.
Author:  ATXKJ [ Thu Sep 28, 2006 10:25 am ]
Post subject: 
I tend to think that all SUV's and most cars would benefit from a diesel option, that doesn't mean the manufacturers are going to offer them - it seems that manufacturers in the US consider diesel only for tow vehicles and large trucks. - There are EPA issues - but they're fixable with R&D (although more development than we got on the EGR would be helpful).

I test drove a Wrangler and an Unlimited before I drove the Liberty - the diesel made the difference so that's what I bought - I was hoping that DC would pay attention.
Author:  dog_party [ Thu Sep 28, 2006 10:27 am ]
Post subject: 
Oh, I'd love to have a nice Diesel 4-door Rubicon. I want, at least, the 3.0 diesel in it. I just don't know how soon, or if, that's going to happen.
Author:  Jeger [ Thu Sep 28, 2006 11:19 am ]
Post subject: 
ATXKJ wrote:
I tend to think that all SUV's and most cars would benefit from a diesel option, that doesn't mean the manufacturers are going to offer them - it seems that manufacturers in the US consider diesel only for tow vehicles and large trucks. - There are EPA issues - but they're fixable with R&D (although more development than we got on the EGR would be helpful).

I test drove a Wrangler and an Unlimited before I drove the Liberty - the diesel made the difference so that's what I bought - I was hoping that DC would pay attention.


Do some research here, it will make you sick. Sometimes it harder to find gasoline (petrol) models than diesel, depending on which maker you are looking at.
Author:  KenJennings [ Thu Sep 28, 2006 2:38 pm ]
Post subject: 
ATXKJ wrote:
I tend to think that all SUV's and most cars would benefit from a diesel option, that doesn't mean the manufacturers are going to offer them ...
I test drove a Wrangler and an Unlimited before I drove the Liberty - the diesel made the difference so that's what I bought - I was hoping that DC would pay attention.

Less than half the Jeep people I meet have seen (or even know) about the CRD in the Liberty. After a few minutes of discussion they usually all agree that they really should have a diesel for what they do with a Jeep.

Maybe in another 20 years DCX management will realize the customer base they should care about are the people who buy Jeeps, not the Stealers who sell them.
Author:  KenJennings [ Thu Sep 28, 2006 7:44 pm ]
Post subject:  Hummer may be getting into the Jeep act...
http://money.cnn.com/2006/09/28/news/companies/gm_hummer/index.htm

A GM exec thinks there aren't enough different kinds of Hummers and GM may be looking at making something smaller -- like a Jeep.

"GM executives have said previously that a smaller vehicle, similar in size to a Jeep Wrangler, is also being considered for the brand."

Now, if only they could be convinced to pack it with a diesel.
Author:  DarbyWalters [ Thu Sep 28, 2006 8:22 pm ]
Post subject: 
Yeah...quite a while ago they showed a picture of an "H4"...about the size of the wrangler...it actually looked decent...
Author:  ATXKJ [ Thu Sep 28, 2006 9:52 pm ]
Post subject: 
Hey - my son just dropped off a Magazine - Oct 06 DieselPower - on page 134 - someone swapped a Cummins (3.9L from a delivery van) into a Wrangler - no overdrive - but get 28 mpg - 33 inch tires and 3.08 gears..... all it takes is a good cutting torch and a welder.........
Author:  Desert_Busa [ Thu Sep 28, 2006 10:15 pm ]
Post subject: 
ATXKJ wrote:
Hey - my son just dropped off a Magazine - Oct 06 DieselPower - on page 134 - someone swapped a Cummins (3.9L from a delivery van) into a Wrangler - no overdrive - but get 28 mpg - 33 inch tires and 3.08 gears..... all it takes is a good cutting torch and a welder.........


With a hot knife they should have put the 5.9L in.

I'd rather have a 4dr wrangler with the 2.8 crd motor and a MANUAL TRANS. My liberty is too nice to cut up... but maybe sooner then later it will end up in a CJ7.
Author:  Apollo [ Fri Sep 29, 2006 12:07 pm ]
Post subject: 
Hi All

I just dont understand DC! Jeep is a true American brand and it seem like diesel power is taking off there in a big way and I'm sure the diesel market will grow and out sell the rest of the world in time. We have been lucky enough to have all the Jeep models in diesel, and yes there are orders in already for the new 4 door diesel Wrangler. (so iv been told by the dealer that replaced my transmission on my CRD, they try'ed to get me to take one)

All the new Jeeps are coming out with the new 3L CRD 160kw 510nm of toque! You got to feel the Grand Cherokee pull off. 9 seconds 0 to 100km/h. I just cant see why they cant put that in the KJ for all of you, that motor will meet your new standards its in the E, S, ML and C class merc's! :? :? :?

Well my hart goes out to you all and hope they sort some thing out soon! :cry:
Author:  DarbyWalters [ Fri Sep 29, 2006 12:41 pm ]
Post subject: 
Apollo wrote:
Hi All

(so iv been told by the dealer that replaced my transmission on my CRD, they try'ed to get me to take one)



Do ya'll have problems the same as us with the Automatic tranny and the EGR?
Author:  Apollo [ Sat Sep 30, 2006 3:16 am ]
Post subject: 
DarbyWalters wrote:
Apollo wrote:
Hi All

(so iv been told by the dealer that replaced my transmission on my CRD, they try'ed to get me to take one)



Do ya'll have problems the same as us with the Automatic tranny and the EGR?


Well i can say that we are lucky enough not have any problems with the EGR as we do not have any enforced laws when it come to emission levels so DC and all the other car manufactures remove or set them up as not to give any problems.

As for the auto trammy in the CRD it seems to be only a few of us not many at all have the TC problem. The CRD 2.8 auto's are one of the top selling SUV's in our market and make up over half of the sales for the KJ. DC seem to have no problem at all in replacing the transmission if they find some thing wrong with it, i was told to keep driving until it was playing up alot, witch i did. (the TC stared to brake up) only had 15400 miles on it. I then drooped it off and a week later i had a new "up dated" one installed. It seems as if they replaced it with the tranny thats in the 2.7 CRD previous Grand Cherokee. Thats what i was told by the tec, its the same box just slightly diffrant internals and it runs at about 150 rpm less than be for in over drive. I do like the change as it is so smooth now.

I was reading an article last night on the new CRD Wrangler. It will have the new "revised" 2.8L CRD auto and 6 speed manual will be available from March 2007. May be you all get the 3L?
Author:  Marlon_JBT [ Sat Sep 30, 2006 7:24 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Wrangler Unlimited needs a diesel
alljeep wrote:
BiodieselJeep.com wrote:
You can fit in the thing (I'm 6'4") as well or better than the KJ...the roll bar isn't a problem (someone stated that on this forum somewhere).


I stated that at my 6'9" height, the roll bar is a definite problem. With the seat all the way back and down I can drive it, but if I off road it I will be bashing the rear center of my head on it.

If I were rear ended in a car accident, it would almost kill me for sure.

You're 6' 9" and you can fit in a Liberty? My 6' 6" uncle looked like he was about to roll into a ball when he was in my Libby.
Author:  alljeep [ Tue Oct 03, 2006 7:36 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Wrangler Unlimited needs a diesel
Marlon_JBT wrote:
You're 6' 9" and you can fit in a Liberty? My 6' 6" uncle looked like he was about to roll into a ball when he was in my Libby.


I fit into almost NO vehicle but for some reason there is exactly one seat position in the Liberty in which I can get my feet/legs stretched out really far, even more than my old full size pickup truck. And even though I'm looking out of the far top portion of the windshiled - for me - I fit in it just right, real comfortable! It's weird! If you see me get in it, it's like watching a giant circus clown get into the teeny-tiny little circus car - but inside I fit just right.

I saw a red wrangler 4-door the other day with a hard top, man did that look good! My wife said she would support me if I went for something like that! (great, I don't fit :shock: , but thanks honey...) 8)
Author:  dog_party [ Tue Oct 03, 2006 9:14 am ]
Post subject: 
Ohhhh BABY! We saw the new 4-door Wrangler Rubicon commercial last night. It was the one with the hawk diving down to grab the "bug" that turned out to be a bright red 4-door Wrangler Rubicon with kayaks on top. I was (as I do with all the new Wrangler commercials) sitting there drooling when suddenly, out of nowhere, my wife goes, "OH! That's cool looking!"

I turned to her and :shock: said, "Really?!"

"Yea, that thing looks GREAT!"

:)

"Well, when they put the diesel in it, do you want to get it?"

"YES!"

:D

I love this woman!!!! Here's to all the women who not only accept our obsessive hobby, but embrace it!!

Come on diesel Wrangler!!!
Author:  Apollo [ Tue Oct 03, 2006 10:46 am ]
Post subject: 
dog_party wrote:

"Well, when they put the diesel in it, do you want to get it?"

Come on diesel Wrangler!!!


Well move to SA and you can have one second quarter 2007. I see the dodge nitro will have the same 2.8L CRD as our KJ's in January 2007?
Author:  BiodieselJeep.com [ Tue Oct 03, 2006 10:53 am ]
Post subject: 
Apollo wrote:

Well move to SA and you can have one second quarter 2007. I see the dodge nitro will have the same 2.8L CRD as our KJ's in January 2007?


S.A.is supposed to be one of the most beautiful areas in the world. An old buddy of mine was from there, and the pics and stories he told made me drool. Plus, the flying (I'm a Paraglider pilot) is supposed to be great. Get me a job and I'll move the family on down in a heartbeat!

Husband to wife: "Honey, not only are the beaches fantastic, but ALL the cars are DIESELS!"
Author:  Apollo [ Tue Oct 03, 2006 4:06 pm ]
Post subject: 
BiodieselJeep.com wrote:
Apollo wrote:

Well move to SA and you can have one second quarter 2007. I see the dodge nitro will have the same 2.8L CRD as our KJ's in January 2007?


S.A.is supposed to be one of the most beautiful areas in the world. An old buddy of mine was from there, and the pics and stories he told made me drool. Plus, the flying (I'm a Paraglider pilot) is supposed to be great. Get me a job and I'll move the family on down in a heartbeat!

Husband to wife: "Honey, not only are the beaches fantastic, but ALL the cars are DIESELS!"


It sure is and id never leave Africa. I stayed in York PA USA for almost 2 years and i did enjoy it but missed Africa and Diesel! Man winter in PA was so cold! I have a friend that is doing her solo flight this weekend (paragliding). Ill post a pic (when car domain is back on line) of the beach that we go to in Mozambique a neighbouring country that we go to for vacations its a lost paradise. Its real 4x4 country and you need to have a diesel if you go north its all you get and its the worst diesel you can get!

I know this is off the topic some what but you'll need a DIESEL to get here!EDIT
Image
Author:  biggiefl [ Thu Oct 05, 2006 3:23 pm ]
Post subject: 
As far as I know the US will NOT allow a diesel in a convertible. This might change with the DFI technology(hopefully).
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