The car Jeep Wrangler Freedom
The price From $35,000 plus on-road costs
Vital statistics 3.6-litre petrol V6; 209kW/347Nm; 6-speed manual; 4WD; 11.4L/100km and 259g/km CO2.
Why we're driving it Jeep has released a limited-edition Wrangler paying tribute to its history with military vehicles.
Likes The Wrangler is tough with plenty of off-road ability. The Jeep's petrol engine pulls strongly and there is more than a dash of butch about the car. A removable hardtop adds to its appeal. The Freedom is the only way to go if you want extras such as body-coloured wheel arches, a Mopar fuel flap, grey-finished grille, leather trim and other additions that include a large freedom star sticker on its bonnet, rump and seats. Oscar Mike badging, military code for "on the move" or "on mission" might appeal to returned servicemen and people who play Call of Duty video games.
Dislikes Freedom comes at a price as it costs $2500 more than an equivalent Sport pack Wrangler. It's also quite rough around the edges, with a sharp ride and a gritty manual gearbox that will give you forearms like Popeye. The interior is spartan for something that costs more than $30,000, but that's part of the appeal. Military types may be disappointed the car is not offered in Jeep's "NATO Sand" finish, though the "dune" duco has a Desert Storm appeal.
Would I buy one? Probably not, it's a bald eagle or Colt .45 away from featuring in a sequel to Team America: World Police. But I would happily have a less patriotic version for off-road adventures.
