Identifying a new Wrangler Unlimited is easy: Just count the doors.

Although the wheelbase of the '07 Wrangler has been stretched by 2 inches, the vehicle is 2.6 inches shorter overall, thanks to reduced overhangs and new bumpers. And it's 5.5 inches wider, with a 3.4-inch wider track. Jeep says it's quot;dramatically brawnier,quot; but we'd say that's a dramatic statement. The sheetmetal is new, with a slight crown. The halogen headlamps are brighter, and the new front bumper has integrated fog lamps near its center. For the first time, there are step assists under the doors to make climbing up into the Jeep easier, and the tail lamps are new. The fender flares are bolted on, so they can be easily taken off and replaced with cooler aftermarket flares. The bumpers, step assists and fender flares are all sturdy, flat-black plastic on the X.

The standard soft top is improved for easier removal and installation. The Sunrider soft top slides back half way, like a huge sunroof over the front seats. The new optional three-piece modular hardtop (Freedom Top) has two front panels that easily pop on and off like a T-top, and are stored behind the rear seat. The third panel over the rear seat can be removed separately and stored in the garage. The Freedom Top yields a total of six open-air possibilities.

Under the body, there's a new boxed frame that's 100 percent stiffer in bending and 50 percent stiffer in twisting, with seven cross members. This helps in crash results, and enabled a new suspension: steering geometry, shock absorbers, springs and control arms are all different. Wide spaced frame rails cradle the fuel tank between the wheels. Three skid plates protect the fuel tank, transfer case and automatic transmission oil pan.