The Wrangler still had solid axles in both front and back and leaf-spring suspension. But it was lower and wider than the CJ for better stability and it had a full roll cage, not just a single bar, to protect occupants in the event that it did roll over.
The square-headlighted Wrangler was initially derided by Jeep purist as regrettable watering down of a great off-road machine. The Wrangler ultimately proved itself, however, becoming just as popular with real off-roaders as the vehicle it had replaced.
The second-generation Wrangler, the TJ, re-introduced the round headlights so missed by Jeep lovers. Most of the Wrangler's mechanical components also changed. It now had sophisicated four-link coil suspension at all for wheels, replacing the old Wrangler's leaf springs, and subtle body changes improved its aerodynamics.
