2007 Jeep Wrangler Overview - part 1

While the Wrangler's traits and affordable price have made it a steady seller through the years, the vehicle has also come bundled with a lot of drawbacks, such as a harsh and noisy ride, a cramped interior and a dated level of refinement. So for the 2007 Wrangler, Jeep has performed a full redesign aimed at fixing the previous model's most outstanding faults without diluting its character.

The new Wrangler is about the same length as before but much wider. This provides additional shoulder and hip room for both front and rear passengers. For additional space, there's the new Wrangler Unlimited. Like last year's model, the Unlimited is built on an extended wheelbase. But this time it happens to be topped with the Wrangler's first four-door body style. The four-door has a roomier three-passenger backseat and a cargo capacity that's better than many other small SUVs.

The 2007 Jeep Wrangler's body structure is stiffer than before and works in conjunction with enhanced suspension and steering tuning to provide a more refined on-road experience. Additional sound insulation and new top designs reduce wind noise. For power, Jeep has replaced the previous inline six-cylinder engine with a new 3.8-liter 202-horsepower V6. It's more powerful than the old engine, but it also must move more weight; the Wrangler Unlimited weighs in at about 4300 pounds, more than 1000 pounds heavier than last year's regular Wrangler.

Underneath, the general hardware configuration is the same -- lives axles suspended by five-link designs -- and Jeep has made sure that off-road ability is still intact. There are 10.2 inches of ground clearance, steep approach and departure angles, and low-range four-wheel drive. The hardcore Rubicon trim level returns as well, and again features many hardware upgrades meant to make it the most capable production vehicle you can buy for off-road use.There's little doubt that the 2007 Jeep Wrangler is much improved overall. The vehicle's character and heritage haven't been overshadowed or watered down by the new features and refinement. And yes, you can still fold down the windshield and take off the doors, even on the four-door. But as before, we consider the Wrangler a niche-market vehicle. Consumers just wanting a capable small SUV will be disappointed by its average acceleration, uninspired interior design and meager handling abilities.

Nissan's Xterra or Toyota's Cruiser will likely suit those buyers better. But for those wanting the original American rock crawler, there is still only one Jeep.

Volkswagen Polo

Polo is a very grown up supermini that exudes quality, though rivals offer a sharper, sportier drive

On the road price: £7,612 - £14,252
For: Mature feel, quality, refinement, pleasant cabin
Against: Soft suspension, underpowered entry-level engines

Driving:The Polo is a very grown up supermini. Ride quality is excellent, with the softly suspended supermini smoothing out city centre bumps well. It feels very much like a mini Golf, though this does mean that, while handling is safe and secure, there is more roll through corners than sportier rivals, and driver involvement is lacking. Steering is light and a little lacking in feel. Smaller petrol engines need working hard and are fun when you're in the mood, frustrating when you're not. Larger petrol units are better and diesels satisfyingly torquey, if a little rattly. Really, the extra pace of the Polo suits its long distance cruising ability well.

Marketplace:The Polo range is large and all-inclusive - and prices are, nowadays, much more competitive than you might think. Most variants come with air conditioning and the range of E, S, SE and Sport models is straightforward. There is a huge range of engines, and later this year there will be a 150bhp 1.8-litre turbocharged GTI variant too, with plenty of Golf GTI styling cues. A strong seller, the Polo battles with the Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall Corsa, Renault Clio and Peugeot 207 - though competition also comes from the Seat Ibiza and Skoda Fabia that share the platform it's based upon. Generally, the other VW brands offer lower prices and a little more equipment.

Owning:The Polo remains a supermini that feels a cut above the rest. Build quality is excellent and the smart dashboard has a commanding, grown up feel. A chunky steering wheel and VW's trademark blue instrument lighting add a classy feel and firm, supportive seats are very comfortable. Space in the rear is reasonable and the boot is practical. A facelift in 2005 brought Golf-style headlamps, Phaeton-style circular tail-lights and side indicator repeaters mounted in the door mirrors. All engines are economical and the inclusion of brake assist and ESP stability control on all variants is a real safety boon, even if the Euro-NCAP crash score isn't class-leading. Servicing may be a little more costly than some rivals though - but excellent retained values make it a safe place to put your money.