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 Nissan Rogue may not be very exciting, but it checks all the right boxes—and then some—for most family needs.
Pros Lots of standard safety tech Can drive itself, at least a little Great interior space utilization Rides well Optional hybrid
Cons Light on power Transmission drones on and on Hardly fun to drive Base model looks very basic Hybrid’s not that thrifty
The 2018 Nissan Rogue ranked #10 in Compact SUVs. Currently the Nissan Rogue has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 44 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Upscale interior Spacious, versatile cargo area Top-tier gas mileage Lots of advanced safety features, even in base model
Cons Underpowered engine Noisy transmission
For most uses — commuter, family and recreational — we'd recommend the SV trim with the optional Premium package. The latter adds useful features such as a surround-view camera system, navigation and a power liftgate. You also get some of the SL trim's more desirable items without the larger wheels that can detract from the ride quality.
PROS Front seats are comfortable on long drives Ride quality remains comfortable over varying terrain Tech options and features are user-friendly Cargo space is vast and versatile
CONS Outward visibility is poor Transmission responds slowly and with an annoying "surge" feeling Acceleration is weak and listless
