2003 Jeep Wrangler Review: Exterior

A few additions to the exterior distinguish the Rubicon from others in the lineup. A 22-inch long nameplate is prominently emblazoned on either side of the hood. Heavy-gauge diamond plate sill guards are bolted to the body sides to protect rocker panels from the damage and dings of rocks and stumps in the backcountry. Goodyear Wrangler 31-inch tires are mounted on new 16-inch, five-spoke aluminum wheels with a dished face to protect them from debris and obstacles. Ten inches of ground clearance helps the Rubicon traverse the trail.

One of the biggest decisions when buying a Wrangler is selecting the top. Purists prefer the soft top, a high-quality piece of equipment that can be configured according to the weather. Folding the top down takes only a third of the time it took before a redesigned top was introduced for 2001. If a screwdriver is handy, the windshield can be flipped down for breezy, low-speed touring in the back country.