Eight years. For eight long years, Jeep Wrangler fans have waited for the next King of Where the Pavement Ain’t. And while it may be inaccurate to say the wait was worth it, or even that it’s par for the course, Jeep engineers sure did pack a passel of improvements into the mechanical features of the 2007 Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. As a result, what is perhaps America’s most famous SUV is bigger, stronger and better than ever – and still as truck-rugged as they come, though it does suffer an almost 300-pound weight gain compared to the outgoing 2006 model. It’s also wider: more than five inches for the Wrangler and six inches for the Wrangler Unlimited, though it matches up similarly in terms of overall length. In fact, the 2007 Wrangler two-door is almost two inches shorter than the outgoing model, even though the wheelbase is longer.

The wider track and shorter overhangs, along with a significantly stiffer frame and reworked suspension, improve the on-road experience and detracts little from your next off-road adventure. The new 3.8-liter V6 that replaces the Wrangler’s old inline six-cylinder is more powerful, and it has to be, thanks to those 300 added pounds. It’s lighter and more efficient than the outgoing powerplant, making 202 horsepower at 5,000 rpm (more by 13 horses) and 237 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm. The standard transmission is a six-speed manual; a four-speed automatic is also available. Off-roaders in the X or the Sahara get a transfer case with a 2.72:1 low range gear ratio and an optional limited-slip electronic rear differential. Rubicon models feature a rock crawling 4.0:1 low-range gear ratio, as well as front and rear electronic locking differentials and a front sway bar that electronically disconnects for greater articulation

The Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited feature a rugged, live-axle suspension that’s redesigned for smoother on-road manners. Gas-charged shock absorbers come standard on models with 16-inch wheelss, while those with 17- and 18-inch whees get monotube shocks. Off-road enthusiasts who buy the Rubicon model get Dana’s revised 44 front and rear axles, while X and Sahara models are equipped with a lighter Dana 30 axle up front and a Dana 35 in back. Steering is upgraded to an improved recirculating ball system; chosen over a rack-and-pinion system for improved off-road performance and durability. As for towing, the Wrangler can pull up to 2,000 pounds, which is small potatoes compared to the Wrangler Unlimited and its 3,500 pounds – when properly equipped.

Four-wheel-disc antilock brakes, an Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Electronic Roll Mitigation do their best to arrest speed and keep the wheels ground side down. Wheels and tires range from the 16-inchers standard on the X model to 17s for the Sahara and Rubicon. Optional wheel packages also include the first-ever 18-inch wheels for the Sahara. Tires start with on- and off-road Goodyear Wrangler STs sized P225/75R16 for the Wrangler X, or optional Goodyear Wrangler RSAs measuring P255/75R17. The Wrangler Sahara gets the Goodyear RSAs standard or optional 18-inch Bridgestone Dueler 693s (P255/70R18). Rubicon models get the Big Mommas, of course: 32-inch LT255/75R17 B.F.Goodrich Mud Terrain tires.