AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Chrysler said it has reduced prices on its 2007 Jeep Wrangler lineup, with the base Wrangler X starting at $18,765, including a $660 destination charge. Jeep's first four-door Wrangler Unlimited model starts at $20,410 for the two-wheel drive version and $22,410 for the four-wheel-drive version, including the destination charge.

John Plecha, director of Jeep marketing and global communications, said the company has reduced the price on Jeep Wrangler X models by $285 and cut the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon's price by $1,840.

The Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited will hit U.S. showrooms later this month, with international distribution slated for the first half of 2007.

The lineup will be offered in three models: X, Sahara and Rubicon. A new 3.8-liter overhead-valve V6 linked to a standard six-speed manual transmission is featured in all Jeep Wrangler models. The V6 produces 202 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque. Jeep says fuel economy is 17 mpg in city driving and 19 mpg on the highway.

Standard equipment on the base Jeep Wrangler X includes 16-inch steel wheels, a full-size spare tire, rear folding seats, antilock brakes and a six-speaker AM/FM/CD radio with MP3/auxiliary input. Options include a four-speed automatic transmission, air-conditioning, a locking fuel filler cap, engine block heater and a soft top.

The $28,895 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon model includes an electronic disconnecting sway bar, a 4:1 part-time transfer case, next-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles, locking front and rear differentials, a 4.10 axle ratio, rock rails and 32-inch BFGoodrich off-road tires.

What this means to you: Jeep eases up on Wrangler pricing, keeping in mind that consumers are becoming ultra-cautious about SUVs and their mediocre fuel economy.

Built from the military version of the all new Jeep Wrangler, the Jeep Wrangler JT showcases just how flexible this new platform can be. Revealed at the 2007 Easter Jeep Safari in Moab [Utah], it dominated the steep climbs and descents on the slopes of the Hell’s Revenge trail. Its 4x4 capability was established as it negotiated the slick hot tubs and waterfalls – at times, almost completely vertical to the ground.

Beginning with the new 116-in. wheelbase platform for the Wrangler Unlimited, the design team managed to create a very nimble, trail-savvy Jeep with a 5-ft. pickup bed and an easy-to-handle removable hardtop.

Off-road enhancements include:

3-in. suspension lift provided by Superlift

35-in. BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires

Rear bumper and tire carrier from Mopar

Front bumper from Mopar

Warn 9500ti winch

The name says it all.

The Jeep Wrangler Ultimate with 392 HEMI from Mopar is a concept vehicle that answers the question “how far can you go with the new Jeep Wrangler?” Beginning with the all-new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon®, the design team set out to create the best of the best – combining high style and materials with the best off-road machine ever offered by Jeep.

The suspension is enhanced with a 3-in. lift to clear the massive 35-in. BF Goodrich Mud Terrain tires mounted on custom, polished Alcoa Forged 18-in. wheels. The exterior is chromed out courtesy of Mopar:

fuel filler door

taillamp guards

tubular side steps

exterior mirrors

tow hooks

door handles

hood hinges

fascia overlays

To complete the look, the exterior is coated in a wildly experimental ‘Liquid Charcoal Pearl Coat’ paint.

The Wrangler Ultimate’s real story is its interior. Taking cues from rugged adventure sports bags and accessories, the team created a high style and detailed interior compartment that is as tough and beautiful as the exterior. Seating surfaces are clad in durable orange mesh fabric and dark slate gray Nappa/Province leather – bound with a heavy black-leather baseball stitch. Instrument panel details are treated to a stunning Argent Pearl/Satin Silver paint combination, reinforcing the machine character for which Jeep is known. The interior is also home to the exclusive MyGIG™ Multimedia Infotainment System. There are also DVD screens for passengers in the front and rear.

To provide authentic performance on the trail, the team also dropped in a 392 HEMI crate motor.