The 2017 Jeep Wrangler is a unique off-roader bolstered by the freedom of open air driving. Its aging design is a throwback to the past, but it offers just enough contemporary features and modern amenities. The Jeep Wrangler is a throwback to the brand's earliest days as a military supplier. Whether by chance or by design, the purpose-built off-roader has endured decades and has become one of Jeep's best-selling vehicles. Offered in Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and extreme off-road Rubicon models, the Wrangler combines an throwback design with a smattering of modern amenities.
Pros It's the off-road champ Unique style, unique everything Strong, smooth V-6 Carlike touches in cabin
Cons Rough ride Poor handling on pavement Steep prices for top editions Very poor safety ratings Fussy soft tops
The 2017 Jeep Wrangler ranks 14 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Jeep Wrangler finishes near the bottom of our compact SUV rankings. The Wrangler is one of the most capable off-road SUVs out there, but class rivals are superior in pretty much every other area (fuel efficiency, interior comfort, available technology, and cargo space, to name a few).
Pros Outstanding off-road capability Standard part-time four-wheel drive Powerful V6 engine
Cons Uncomfortable ride and subpar handling on pavement Cramped rear seats and few standard features Poor fuel economy More expensive than many rivals
For the 2017 Wrangler, Jeep has added new optional LED headlights and foglights, as well as a Cold Weather package that includes remote start, heated seats and all-weather floor mats. Although it's behind the times as far as tech goes, the 2017 Jeep Wrangler is still one of the best go-anywhere, do-anything vehicles that money can buy. From the stripped-out Sport model all the way up to the hardcore Rubicon, there's a Jeep for every off-road scenario.
Pros All but unstoppable on the trail Unique rugged character There's a Wrangler for a variety of tastes Extensive factory and aftermarket parts support Fun to drive in its own special way.
Cons Crash test scores don't match more conventional vehicles Long braking distances On-road handling and overall comfort are lacking Soft top is difficult to operate and offers little security The latest safety and technology features are absent Subpar fuel economy compared to most modern crossovers.
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee still antes up considerable trail-riding talent, but other crossover SUVs do a better job of daily driving. The name is one of the oldest applied to a modern-day SUV, but the 2017 Jeep Cherokee is no Conestoga wagon. It's a thoroughly modern family wagon, recast from its hardcore sport-utility roots into something much broader, more capable in all sorts of conditions.
Pros Family-sized interior (albeit with no third row) Daring exterior Front seat comfort Quick enough with the base engine Strong active-safety set
Cons Exterior styling doesn't feel fully committed-to Numb steering Gas mileage okay but not excellent Transmission woes come and go
The 2017 Jeep Cherokee ranks 13 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Jeep Cherokee combines an upscale and spacious cabin with good off-road capability. Although you can find a smoother ride and larger cabin in competitors like the Honda CR-V or Ford Escape, the Cherokee’s off-road capability means it strikes a pretty rare balance in this class.
Pros Premium-quality cabin Spacious and comfortable seating Great off-road capability with 4WD option
Cons Sluggish base engine Below-average fuel economy Small cargo space
The 2017 Cherokee gets only minor equipment revisions, including standard xenon headlights on every trim but the base Sport. This is also the first full year for the top-of-the-line Overland trim that was introduced in mid-2016.
Pros Available V6 engine provides smooth and assertive power Absorbent suspension smooths out rough surfaces Capable and user-friendly 8.4-inch touchscreen on many models Trailhawk offers unique off-road capability for a small crossover.
Cons Sluggish acceleration with four-cylinder engine Less cargo capacity than other small crossovers.
