Which 4x4?

[Mountain_Ninja]

Hey, I was directed to this site to hear some pro advice on what I'm looking to get, so thanks in advance for your expertise!

I drive a WRX, but since I started climbing Colorado's 14ers last year, I realize this ride ain't gonna cut it. I need to get up to most trailheads with a 4 wheel drive, have some room to car camp if need be, and be able to fit the wife and 2 kids.

I was considering the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon, but I have nothing to base my decision on except Jeep's reputation of being great off-road.

HERE'S WHAT I NEED:
-4 Wheel drive for going up to trailheads
-Seating for 4 people, relatively comfortably, plus luggage
-A daily driver that won't drive me nuts
-Reliability (& longevity if possible)
-Roughly $40k price or less
-Decent gas mileage, for a 4x4, but decent acceleration would be nice

I'm obviously not someone who's looking to soop up an older ride, for my lack of knowledge in this arena, so getting something stock and doing a few simple mods is about my max for comfort level.

Awesome, thanks for posting your thoughts!!

[guidolyons]

XJ Cherokee, or WJ(?) Grand Cherokee

[Mountain_Ninja]

Originally Posted by guidolyons

XJ Cherokee, or WJ(?) Grand Cherokee

...

So I'm considering the Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon. What else is comparable, and maybe better for what I'm looking for?

(see above needs)

[Beat95YJ]

Any small SUV will do what you want. A hummer h3 alpha would be better to sleep in than a jeep. Might also look at the dodge powerwagon or raptor with a cap on the back.

[406 YJ]

Get something you can pull the top off of. I like your idea of a rubicon.

You can't beat wheeling topless on a nice day

[tunaboat]

I have a '09 4 door rubi, we love it. Its the most pimped out stock 4x4 you can buy. I would add bumpers, sliders, and a winch. It has 32" tires stock so you may lift it later, but its ready to wheel right off the showroom floor. oh ya and its a convertible.

Tuna