Living With Rubi
By Mike "TXJEEPER" Cohn

Got Me a New Jeep!
This past weekend I took posession of a Jeep Rubicon. No, it's not mine to keep. It's part of of Jeep's press fleet. But it is mine for the next two weeks, to do with as I please.

This is certainly not the first time I've driven the Rubicons. Those who read Rockcrawler.com often know that I have already spent considerable time behind the wheel of the Rubicons in Moab, Utah and at Camp Jeep in Branson, Missouri.

This is also not my first TJ. Having owned two TJ's and having had them for press testing and review in the past (see this month's cover, for example), I know all about the Wranglers and what they are capable of. But this one's different. This one's a Rubi.

The reason I'm so interested in this particular test is that this is my chance to really experience the Rubicon on my home turf. No press liasons, no Jeep PR or Marketing folks. This is, for all intents and purposes, my Rubicon.

So for the next two weeks, I will be living with Rubi. I will neglect my other Jeep and my sports car and spend as much time as possible in the Rubicon. I will attempt to put my daily (or near-daily) experiences here in this very space. I will post my opinions about how it drives, how it feels, and whatever else comes to mind.

My Dearest Rubi
So here's the skinny on Rubi:
- 2003 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon - $24,385
- Inca Gold Pearl Coat
- Floor Mats - $60
- 4 Speet Automatic transmission - $825
- Auto-dimming mirror, with compass, temp - $220
- Air Conditioning - $895
- Cruise Control - $250
- Radio, CD - $125
- 7 Speakers, including Sub - $295
- Black hard Top - $920
- Destination - $610

TOTAL = $28,585

Being that the Jeep was built in September, 2002, the price is actually a bit lower than one would sticker today.

So ride along with me as Rubi and I spend some time together. See you next time!

- TX -