I own a 2005 Wrangler 4x4. Awesome Jeep. I absolutely love it. I may never sell it. You'd be suprised at the uses for the 4x4, snow, beach, mountains etc. You will look for places to go and test your Wrangler. Mine has climbed in the Adirondacks, bounced on the sandy dunes of eastern Long Island and handled all manner of Vermont snow and ice.
My model is the Sport, but with lots of add-ons!
Gas mileage is not great, although it is better with the soft top. But its not awful on the highway either. Took mine down to North Carolina from NYC on 2 tanks of gas.
I really don't like the redesign they did after 06 and am happy that I bought mine in 05.
I'd be happy to answer any questions you have.