The Wrangler YJ gave way to the Wrangler TJ for the 1997 model year (note that there was no 1996 model year; the 1997 TJ was released in Spring 1996). This updated Wrangler featured a coil-spring suspension (based on that of the Jeep
Grand Cherokee) for better ride and handling, and a return to the CJ's iconic round headlamps. The engine is
the same 4.0 L AMC 242 Straight-6 used in the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee. A 2.5 L AMC 150 Inline-4
motor was available on entry-level models until 2003 when the 2.4 L DOHC Neon 4-cylinder engine replaced it.
The Wrangler Rubicon (named for the famed Rubicon Trail in the Sierra Nevada Mountains) was introduced in
2003. It featured front and rear Dana 44 axles with built-in air-actuated locking differentials, 4:1 low-range
NV241OR transfer case, 4.10:1 differential gears, 16 in alloy wheels, and Goodyear MTR P245/75-R16 tires.
2003 to 2004 featured a standard NV3500 five-speed manual transmission, which changed in 2005 to a
Mercedes-sourced six-speed. The optional 42RLE four-speed automatic transmission was available from 2003
to 2006.