The 2018 Jeep Wrangler skips over the on-road part of the driving test, and heads straight for the hills.
Pros The undisputed off-road champion Singular style Smooth and strong V-6 A few concessions to modernity inside
Cons Rough-and-tumble ride Poor on-road handling Expensive high-end editions Remarkably poor safety scores Soft tops are fussy to use
The Jeep Wrangler is completely redesigned for 2018. Note that this review covers the new Wrangler. The previous-generation model, the Wrangler JK, is covered separately.
PROS Unrelentingly capable off-road Maintains the rugged Jeep character Increased capability and comfort compared to old models Extensive customization options from the factory and aftermarket
CONS Mild towing capability for an otherwise highly capable rig Less cargo space than some conventional crossovers Standard V6 engine is a little underwhelming
Pros There are few vehicles more capable off-road than the Wrangler JK. Equipped with removable doors, a removable roof, and a fold-down windshield, the four-wheel-drive Wrangler JK is one of the most fun and proficient ways to explore off the beaten path or to feel the wind in your hair. It’s also hard not to fall for the Wrangler JK’s charming and simple design, which can trace its roots back to the Willys MB Jeep of World War II fame.
Cons The Wrangler JK’s off-road capability comes at the cost of its on-road manners. Live front and rear axles do the Wrangler JK’s ride quality no favors. The body also rolls precariously in turns, and the stability-control system regularly cuts in to prevent the droptop SUV from actually rolling over. Wind noise is exceptionally loud at highway speeds, and this Jeep drinks gas like it’s at an open bar. The available touchscreen infotainment system also is slow to respond to inputs and suffers from poor ergonomics.
The 2019 Jeep Wrangler is a rugged two- or four-door SUV that’s an adventure waiting to happen.
Pros Impeccable off-road chops, in any configuration Iconic style More efficient turbo-4 Improved interior Easy-to-use optional off-road system
Cons Expensive for a Jeep Wrangler Rugged ride Back seat takes a back seat Sparse base trim Pickup and diesel are on the horizon
Jeep Wrangler SUV models are available with a 3.6 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 285 hp, depending on engine type. The 2019 Jeep Wrangler SUV comes with four wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual.
Pros Unrelentingly capable off-road Maintains rugged Jeep character Increased capability compared to old models Extensive customization options from the factory and aftermarket
Cons Steering is slow and feels loose, especially on the Rubicon trim Poor ride comfort and handling abilities Less cargo space than some conventional crossovers Mild towing capability for an otherwise highly capable rig
The 2019 Jeep Wrangler ranked #13 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Jeep Wrangler has a score of 7.7 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 14 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Herculean off-road ability Four-door model has lots of cargo space Punchy turbocharged engine
Cons Other SUVs are more agile and smoother on the pavement High starting price Subpar gas mileage