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.
A Mercedes-Benz G-Class isn't a logical buy, but that's just why it has endured so long. Not everyone wants an economical sedan, after all. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has moved far from its roots as a utilitarian vehicle designed with soldiers in mind.
Pros Authentic design and heritage Stellar off road Luxuriously updated inside Phenomenal powertrains
Cons You could buy a fleet of Jeep Wranglers for this money Dated in every possible way Sits so high, it comes with its own steps Requires off-road skill, for better or worse
The 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class ranks 8 out of 8 Luxury Large SUVs. The 2017 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is more of a status symbol than an everyday SUV. It costs more than every competitor, and it isn't particularly practical to drive anywhere but off road. However, if you want something that'll grab attention and impress, it doesn’t get more distinctive than the G-Class, also known as the G550.
Pros Excellent off-roader Muscular engines
Cons Unsettling ride for luxury class Cumbersome and difficult to handle on pavement Few driver assistance technologies
For 2017 the G-Class gains a new variant: the G550 4x4², which gains more ground clearance, larger tires and a revised suspension. New cosmetic packages (Designo Manufaktur Luxury and Mojave packages, Night package) have been introduced.
Pros Iconic design is instantly recognizable Outstanding forward visibility Unusually quiet when driving on-road Lots of cosmetic customization potential
Cons Awful steering, handling, drivability and fuel economy Difficult to get into and out of Poor interior packaging leaves little useful space Compromised off-road ability
