(disclaimer: you are reading the words of a GM salesman, I suppose you should weigh them accordingly)
Wranglers are pretty sweet, they seem to hold realy good values, the option of different tops/lifts/accessories is staggering, and they are a tried and true vehicle. Here's some things to look for:
The 6 cylinder 5 speed is the way to go whether you plan on having a stock jeep or a modified one. The right amount of power and a good torque band. If you lift it, make sure the gearing has been changed out accordingly.
The best option for getting a long lasting jeep is to buy new, but if you are buying used:
Look for the hardtop/hard doors
Look for the suspension (rather than) body lift
Have a trusted mechanic check over all modifications/welds/etc
one negative: Mileage sucks. No two ways about it. Ask any jeep owner for a better idea than I can honestly give.
ETA: and of course, as mentioned above.. They don't have allot of room, you'd have to buy accessories to allow for extra storage.
I am sure I am missing lots of good advice about the little buggers, but I'm late for work.. lol
(Of course there are other options for small usable SUV's, even one of two that I might have laying around the lot.. Hint hint)