From the logbook: 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara

Consumer Reports News: November 02, 2011 10:53 AM

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In our initial Just In report, we noted that Jeep Wrangler owners seem to really enjoy themselves, even routinely waving to one another. Admit it: The Jeep Wrangler looks like fun incarnate, but is it truly fun to drive? A lot of buyers must think so, because Jeep sells a lot of them. Now that we have logged more than a thousand miles on this newly purchased test model, let's review the candid, initial logbook comments from the staff.

We spent $36,340 on our Wrangler Unlimited Sahara to find out how much the new-for-2012 3.6-liter V6 and a five-speed automatic improved this popular icon. We figure it could only get better, since the 2007 model's ancient 3.8-liter V6 made more noise than power and sucked down way too much fuel - it only returned 15 mpg overall. For the new model year, Chrysler also spruced up the interior and claimed to make some improvements to reduce cabin noise.

How's it going so far? Take a look at some logbook impressions:

"[The engine] is plenty quick, once you get the transmission to downshift."

"Much better than the old V6, but the engine has to work hard."

"Steering feel is spooky, with very little on-center feel and a non-linear response."

"The ride is a bit jittery and unsettled."

"Very noisy with wind and road noise dominating on the highway."

"Access is awful - no door checks and a high sill."

"$37,000 and no power seat?"

"The front seats are both too firm and too soggy."

"Steering wheel lacks telescope feature."

"Visibility is lousy. The B-pillars are right in the way, and the door mirrors seem too narrow and badly placed."

"Not a fan of the center-located window switches."

"Love all the neat touches, such as the metal dash vents and little Jeep icons in the windshield garnish."

"Still feels inadequate and a chore for on-road driving."

So, even with these improvements, the Wrangler remains mostly an anachronistic one-dimensional vehicle - good to take off-road and nice for nostalgia. But some of its charm is summed up in this comment: "Still a legend but behind the times on everything."