Rugged as they're made (today)

Okay, Jeeps are not for everyone. I'll just comment on mine, since I've had it for over four years. It's a '99 Wrangler SE, with a 4-cylinder engine. A typical 'stripper' off the lot (no fringes, no back seat, or even a radio, I installed the radio I wanted).
Within six months of purchase, my dash board shut down. All indicating needles died, including the light on the panel. The Jeep service dept manager said, "Oh, yeah, the Wranglers have a faulty dash panel plug. We've got plenty in stock." I asked what else is 'faulty' on the Wrangler. "Nothing", he replied. And it's true. I've had trouble free driving for over four years. This is the toughest rig I've ever had. The drive train is without parallel. My religion is to change the fluids and filters every 3K miles. So, if it's a lemon, it's not due to service.
Now, this vehicle is noisy to the point of hollering at your passenger in order to communicate ('I SAID I'D LIKE TO LIVE HERE, HONEY! NOT, YOU'VE GOT A BIG REAR!').

It has probably the worst ride in the SUV category, but much improved from the shorter wheel based models of the past. You don't feel you'll die at speeds of 65-70mph, however, doesn't set any speed records (comfy at 60-65mph once you get there).
Please note: The rating category doesn't allow road noise as an option for grading. Just rattles and squeeks (none yet).
Since I had no back seat (the seat's a bit of a joke), I secured my tool box in it's place. So, roominess isn't an issue with me. I've hauled 2 x 4s, small sheets of plywood and even doors since the cargo room greatly increases when you fold the passenger seat down.
The front seats are very comfy.
Interior lighting is almost non-existant (unless you like staring at your own feet).
The window zippers on my half door soft top, and the dutch door designed back is a pain. Although, they hold up surpisingly well. Just need to spray them with silicone every few months so they'll slide easy.
The soft top has held up better than I had imagined. No leaks, no tears, or frays. I followed the instructions to never apply soap to the soft top when washing (good rule). You won't need to re-scotch guard it.
Removal of the top is slow and involved (so is putting it back on). Removal of the upper half doors is a snap, and very enjoyable in summer.
Don't lock your soft top Jeep! It's more expensive to replace or repair the fabric than replace any of the goods taken (unless you have a tendancy to leave your hope diamond in the seat while shopping).
Fuel economy is fair to middlin' (it's a four wheel drive, duh). I initially got 22-24 MPG, then put on larger tires. My MPG dropped to 18-20 MPG. However, simple geometry (or logic) dictates that the larger circumference tires would yield lower recording on the odometer, thus lower 'recorded' mileage (get out your slide rule if you need to). One more thing on this; You're going faster than your speedo shows! The bigger the tire, the slower speed your vehicle records.

Light bulbs (front and rear) are almost too easy to replace.

Changing oils, filters, etc, are easy access. No jacks or ramps are needed, and there's enough room in the engine compartment. You can even 'see' the oil filter!

One little irritation is the safety belt strap occasionaly gets hung up on the door hinge when exiting, so the door doesn't close (ya gotta remove the strap from the hinge to shut the door, no biggie).

You need to be a bit limber to climb in and get out. Tight skirts or pants (in the bending areas) are not recommended.

If you're looking to get a sports ute, and intend to use it accordingly, this is 'the one'.
Execs, soccer mothers, status mongers; go fish.