The new Jeep Wrangler range will surprise drivers and off-road enthusiasts when it launches in the UK this summer. Jeep has managed to maintain the classic ‘rugged’ look and feel without letting the new car’s off-road ability compromise its on-road dynamics or its role as a comfortable everyday family vehicle.

The all-new two-door Jeep Wrangler and long-wheelbase four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited will be launched in the UK in May 2007 with the range starting from just £17,995.

Peter Lambert, Managing Director of Chrysler Group UK, said: “The new model is a significant step forward from the old vehicle, as it offers a diesel engine for the first time, a choice of two-door and four-door models, much better road manners, reduced noise levels, a host of safety features and an all-new interior with space for five adults and their luggage.”

A direct descendent of the original 1941 Willys MB Jeep, the Jeep Wrangler has evolved from more than 65 years of legendary 4x4 leadership. Building on the successful, original Jeep formula with an all-new frame, new exterior and totally refreshed interior design, new engines, ESP and brake traction control standard across the range, Jeep Wrangler delivers more capability and on-road refinement without losing what makes it a Jeep.

“We expect the new Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited to attract attention from people that currently buy the Land Rover Defender as a family vehicle. Wrangler offers impressive value for money and fuel economy of nearly 30 mpg plus the option of an automatic gearbox and a convertible hard roof not available on the competition.”

The Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited both retain removable full-framed doors and fold-down windscreen together with a removable hard top that provides more options for open-air driving.

The ‘Freedom Top™’ is a three-piece modular hardtop and features separate left- and right-front passenger roof panels that can be removed and stored in the vehicle, together with a rear section that can also be removed.

“Combining four-door convenience with Jeep Wrangler’s unique open-air design and unmatched off-road capability means that the four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is the only four-door convertible in the world,” added Peter Lambert. “Wrangler Unlimited offers more than twice the cargo capacity of the two-door Wrangler, but doesn’t compromise on fun. Drivers who want to go anywhere and do anything, can now do it with more family and friends than ever before.”

While the majority of Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited sold in the UK in 2007 will be powered by a new 2.8-litre diesel engine, offering 174 bhp and 302 lb ft of torque, a handful of Jeep Wrangler ‘Rubicon’ models will be sold with a new 3.8-litre petrol engine and a host of additional off-road features that will make this the best off-road Wrangler ever and the ultimate showroom standard off-road vehicle available in the UK.