For vehicles as iconic as a Jeep Wrangler, the task of finding ways to improve it withing upsetting the base group of fans can be a daunting task. So I have to really commend Jeep on its latest Wrangler Rubicon – it features the things that are cool about a “Jeep” yet integrates many modern conveniences in a way that should be palatable to both the long-time fans as well as new ones.

For those not too familiar with what makes a Jeep so much fun – they only need to take one off-road for awhile to “get it”. Wrangler’s have an amazing ability to fit into areas larger vehicles can’t go – this is in part due to the shorter wheelbase as well as the physical body dimensions.

The power plant is a 3.6L V6 engine which develops 286hp and 260lb-ft of torque – the 6-speed manual transmission is perfectly mated to a 4.10 axle ratio using Dana44 front and rear axles – the low-end is great off-road and  also does help it get off the line pretty well to boot.

The factory BFGoodrich mud-terrain tires ensure that when you take the party off of the asphalt and onto the great-outdoors, that the traction will be quite adequate.

Additionally, Rubicon features factory axle lockers as well as an electronic front sway-bar disconnect – a rock-climbers dream come true. If you are into rocks, then you will also appreciate the inclusion of rock rails under each rocker panel – and yes, they are fully functional.

Our test model was loaded to the hilt with cool features – with everything from a good-sounding audio system with Sirrus Satellite radio to integrated Bluetooth and USB connectivity. It’s the same head-unit found in many of the Chrysler/Dodge vehicles. Overall audio quality is good but not stellar – certainly good enough for most customers, however.

As with all of the recent Chrysler products, the steering wheel layout is the same – audio controls, Bluetooth and cruise control are all in easy reach. I like the way the instrument cluster looks and the overall form and function of the entire cabin space. The dash vents turn and close up very easy and it’s a nice feature to have the power window switches in the middle of the dash.

The leather seats provide good support while remaining comfortable, even over rough terrain – there are plenty of “oh crap” handles to grab onto as well. I do prefer the removable hardtop over the rag-top but that’s just me I guess as I prefer the more quiet ride.

Rear cargo space is a bit limited with the rear seat in but what did you expect? It’s a Wrangler – a short, nimble, capable off-road vehicle, not a wanna-be pavement princess for soccer moms or dads who want a big SUV to look cool in. There are vehicles for that and this isn’t one of them – it doesn’t at all pretend to be something it’s not and frankly, I like that about it.

If I were to think of this vehicle as a bottle of wine – I’d have to call it an Australian Shiraz – it’s a huge, in-your-face, off-road experience. If you’re looking to have tons of fun off-road, then I’d highly encourage you to test drive one.