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 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar takes chances in its exterior and interior and wins spectacularly. It’s a new benchmark for the luxury SUV company.
Pros Gorgeous shape Adjustable and capable air suspension Modern and sleek interior Opulent interior... …made better by extra-cost cloth fabric
Cons Six figures for a mid-size SUV is a thing now Engines feel old now Big wheels = tough ride Did someone say more for cloth? Just enough second-row space
The 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar ranked #7 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Land Rover Range Rover Velar has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 12 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Innovative, responsive infotainment system with dual touch screens Lots of cargo space Excellent fuel economy Quiet, polished ride
Cons No robust V8 engine option
The 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Velar is a new vehicle.
PROS Distinctive styling inside and out Refined driving experience Strong V6 engine
CONS Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls give too many false positives Gloss-black interior is a fingerprint magnet