I testdrove the '07 JK Rubicon SWB...and took a look inside the JK Rubicon 4-door. The JK Rubi SWB rode very well...much better than my brother's '03 Rubicon. The ride is on the soft side (comfy) but it can get a bit bouncy over big bumps (due to short wheelbase). The ride in the Hummer H3 is better, while FJC is more sporty (aka not as soft). However, for a short wheelbase SUV with off-road intentions, the Jeep Wrangler rides pretty good (better than i expected). Ride is relatively quiet, but not as silent as FJC or Hummer H3. Power was merely adequate...not nearly as good as FJ, but not as underpowered as you would think...kinda similar to my Hummer H3 driving experience. The driver's seat does lack lumbar support. You still have to sit relatively close to the steering wheel, but the seat is height-adjustable (which the old Wranglers needed badly). Everything is within easy reach...the power windows are easy to get used to. Elbow room on the driver's side door is a bit tight, but very roomy when you compare it to the old Wranglers.
The main complaint for me is the back seat in either SWB or 4-door. The seat is too upright for long trips. It actually feels uncomfortable...kinda like the back seat of a pickup truck. There is enough legroom for sure back there. Getting into and out of the rear seat of the 4-door was easy enough...easier than FJC. However, the backseat angle may be a dealbreaker for someone who carries people back there often (e.g. kids, in-laws). I guess if you combine the FJC's actual backseat with Jeep's 4-door design, then you will have a perfect backseat!
Cargo space in the 4-door is good...small in the SWB (expected). The space in either is still superior to the older Wranglers.
Getting into and out is easier than the older Wranglers...the sill height is lower i think. It has less "tub effect" (Wrangler owners will know what i mean).
The hardtop is pretty cool. It is sectional into 3 pieces. You can convert it into a convertible easily with a few latches. However, to take off the main section, it is not as quick as taking off the two front roof section. IMHO, the hardtop is the best design ever.
All Rubicons have the front disconnect button to disconnect the front sway bar. The underbody is a bit cleaner than the FJC...more protection...even the exhaust crossover is protected with a skidplate.
For me, if i were in the market, it would be a hard call between FJC and Rubicon SWB. The 4-door does look better in person than in pics...so i would recommend taking a personal look at one before judging.
