Jeep® Announces 2003 Rubicon Pricing

Auburn Hills, Mich., Jul 23, 2002 - The Rubicon name isn't just for a Class 10 off-road trail anymore – it's also what the Jeep® brand is calling their ultimate off-road rig. With production beginning next month, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon model features Tru-Lok® locking front and rear differentials, front and rear Dana 44 axles and a Rock-Trac® 4:1 low range transfer case - all starting at $24,995, which includes destination. While its beefy off-road tires and diamond plate sill protectors hint at the tremendous capability of the 2003 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, it's the underpinnings that make it worthy of wearing the Rubicon name.

"The Jeep brand invented the 4x4 category more than six decades ago, and today the Jeep brand announces an incredible price for what will be the most capable Jeep on the planet," said Jeff Bell, Vice President, Jeep Marketing. "In fact, we have already received more than 3300 orders before any pricing was announced – a testament to the strong enthusiast following the brand has always had."

The Jeep brand is the only original equipment manufacturer offering this combination of traction, maneuverability and versatility. Jeep Wrangler Rubicon's trail proven traction is a result of the front and rear locking axles, 4:1 transfer case and 31-inch tall MT/R tires. Compact, nimble handling and a tight turning circle help Jeep Wrangler Rubicon maneuver through the toughest of trails. Jeep Wrangler is the only true 4x4 convertible with removable doors, fold down windshield and hose-out interior for the ultimate in versatility.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is covered by DaimlerChrysler's industry-leading seven year/70,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. The warranty, which is fully transferable to subsequent owners at no extra cost, covers components including engines, transmissions/transaxles, transfercases and axles.

The Rubicon model is a limited production vehicle with 8,000 units planned for the 2003 model year.

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon model will be sold only in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Sold in 100 countries around the world, Jeep Wrangler is available in right- and left-hand drive versions. All Jeep Wranglers are built at DaimlerChrysler's Toledo (Ohio) Stickney Avenue assembly.