zzdcar' Expert Review
by the zzdcar Experts
What’s new
The 2003 Jeep Wrangler gets a new trim level: the Rubicon. All trims have been bestowed with an all-new 42RLE four-speed automatic transmission which is supposed to provide smoother-shifting, better highway fuel efficiency and quieter engine operation at highway speeds compared to the previous three-speed automatic transmission. The SE trim gets a new NV1500 five-speed heavy-duty tranny, which promises to improve shift quality in cold weather, along with a new, more potent 2.4-liter Power Tech inline-four. Available four-wheel disc brakes debut this year, along with a new fold-and-tumble rear seat that can be more easily removed. Finally, the Wrangler's interior has been refurbished for 2003; it gets new front and rear seats, a new electrochromatic rearview mirror with map lights, temperature and compass display (standard on Sahara, optional on Sport and Rubicon trims), and a new four-spoke steering wheel.
zzdcar says
It has a stiff ride, offers about the same noise isolation as a motorcycle and has a soft top that's a nail-buster to operate. That said, the 2003 Jeep Wrangler also offers a visceral motoring experience like no other and the off-road ability of a mountain goat.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 Jeep Wrangler SE 4WD 2dr Convertible SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.
Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota
$225/mo for Wrangler SE
Wrangler SE
SE 4WD 2dr Convertible SUV (2.4L 4cyl 5M) - $16,215 MSRPX 4WD 2dr Convertible SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5M) - $19,235 MSRPSport 4WD 2dr Convertible SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5M) (Most Popular) - $21,045 MSRPSahara 4WD 2dr Convertible SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5M) - $24,635 MSRPRubicon 4WD 2dr Convertible SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5M) - $24,810 MSRP
vs
$166/mo
Avg. Compact SUV
2003 Wrangler Highlights
Trim: SEXSportSaharaRubiconSE
Base MSRP | $16,215 |
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Engine Type | Gas |
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Combined MPG | 17 MPG |
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Cost to Drive | $225/month |
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Seating | 2 seats |
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Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 47.2 cu.ft. |
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Drivetrain | four wheel drive |
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Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
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