2003 Jeep Wrangler X: Upgrade to 6-Cylinders

Amanda T
Mar 4, 2021

Purple Wrangler Sport in nature with top down - Vehicle History

If you’re searching for a vehicle that you can take off-road as well as drive when running errands around town, the 2003 Jeep Wrangler X might be the right fit for your needs. The X trim offers quite a few upgrades (and more power) than the base model Wrangler, including a more powerful engine and upgrades to the interior.

What’s included in the 2003 Jeep Wrangler X trim?

The X trim includes a 4.0L (242) SMFI I6 Power Tech powertrain engine, cloth high-back front bucket seats, a tip and slide passenger seat, a folding rear seat, cargo area and rear seat carpeting, and more.

Here, we’ll go over everything that you need to know before you purchase a Jeep Wrangler, including what’s special about the X trim level. Then, we’ll discuss how you can move forward toward making a fully informed decision by getting all the details on your potential new vehicle.

Jeep Wrangler: A Quick History

The Wrangler burst onto the automotive scene in 1987. Despite its rugged appearance, the early Wrangler was built for superior on-road performance. Drivers had the choice between a manual and automatic transmission. The original Wrangler had no rear seat belts, but these and other safety features were added as the Wrangler began to evolve.

In 1997, the TJ Wrangler was released. This version of the vehicle replaced the previous version’s square headlights with round ones, and it had a coil spring suspension instead of the previous version’s leaf spring suspension.

In this iteration of the Wrangler, its off-road capabilities were truly harnessed. The 1997 Wrangler offered a smoother ride, and the vehicle quickly became associated with hiking, camping, fishing and climbing.

What’s Different about the 2003 Jeep Wrangler X?

For drivers who want the ruggedness of a Wrangler with some upgrades, the X may be the perfect trim level. The X trim’s 4.0L (242) SMFI I6 Power Tech powertrain engine is a step up from the base model’s 2.4L SMFI I4 DOHC Power Tech powertrain engine. The Wrangler X boasts increased torque and horsepower as well.

While the exterior of the Wrangler X and the base model are the same, there are several upgrades to the cabin that set the X apart. Drivers and passengers of the X enjoy cloth high-back front bucket seats, a difference from the vinyl seats offered in the base model.

The X also includes a tip & slide passenger seat, folding rear seat, cargo area and rear seat carpeting, four speakers, and a fixed antenna.

Ready to Purchase a Jeep Wrangler?

If it’s time for you to purchase a new vehicle, you’re being smart by doing your research before you make a commitment. Your next move? Get a report from Vehicle History. You’ll get all the information you need to make a fully informed purchase decision.

avatar Amanda T
Amanda T. is a freelance writer, mom, and health nut who refuses to drive anything other than a Nissan. She has six years of automotive writing experience, and loves providing drivers with well-researched information to help them make informed decisions.
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