2003 Jeep Rubicon

This curbside was a pleasant surprise when I opened the box. It quickly turned into a quick build with the metal bar suspension and easy assembly. The metal bars make it easy to add aftermarket rims. The rubber tires that came in the kit were easy to carve the interior and add aftermarket rims, to keep the high clearance. The kit also had great detailing such as metal springs, a winch, and a light bar with four lights. The kit was probably more of a skill level 2 instead of skill level 4, which also makes it an easy quick build. The Jeep branding was spot on, especially the diamond pattern on the back. The extensive decals allow you to create different looks of the model. I would like to see a more advanced kit of this model, adding some type of removable top. This kit was a great way to represent the Jeep heritage of a Wrangler.

The 03 Jeep Rubicon is a nice model. I purchased 3 of these to build with my 2 Sons. I have years of experience while my Sons this was their first model. We all enjoyed the build. I found on this model it was especially important to plan your parts painting (IE - The radiator behind the Jeep body grill). Pro's; The Jeep has a good design and looks mean. Tires are real rubber and model uses metal axles so the Jeep rolls which my boys Love. There are 2 sets of decals for a different look on multiple models. Well Designed/Engineered assembly that adds to ease and overall looks of completed model. Cleaver way the headlights are designed and assembled that give this Jeep a Real looking front face. Con's; 1/25 Scale - Never liked these, but seems that is where most car models are now a days. Hood doesn't open, and no engine, just a bottom end molded into the chassis. Some details are lost in the molding a little - overall not a deal breaker though.

First I want to say the below average rating is solely due to the lack of engine and opening hood, secondly read the review by caverncity4wheeler, the expression and points listed there are right with what I thought opening this kit the first time around - engine doors, hood, suspension options etc. There is an additional factor I think those considering this kit might find useful. I bought two of these kits with the plan to build one as a late model Jeep and one to use parts for a CJ-7 kit I had one the shelf. Given that this kit is 1:25 and the CJ kit is 1:24 scale the parts are exchanging nicely due to the real world size differences. As I work through this build I am beginning to think this is the best use of this kit. I still have my second kit that I am leaning more toward using to work on my panel cutting skills by opening the hood and doors, adding a spare engine I have laying around and scratch building some extra parts, maybe try to redesign the suspension.... In all I think this is a good kit in a build it as it is on the box kit and hope that companies like Revell continue to make more 4x4/ off-road kits to supplement the muscle car/ exotic car variety available.