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 2020 Tesla Model Y electric crossover is the next big thing from the automaker, until the next thing.
Pros Another electric crossover Another Tesla Another tech spectacle Another car for non-car people
Cons Another deadline for Tesla to miss Another wait for mainstream buyers Another distraction Another promise of self-driving
The 2020 Tesla Model Y is an all-new model.Part of the first Model Y generation introduced for 2020.
Pros 300-mile projected maximum range Stunning acceleration from the Performance model Convenient Supercharger network Cutting-edge technology
Cons Unreliable delivery and pricing expectations Reputation for poor build quality Tiny third-row seats No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support
The newest ambitious project from Tesla is the all-electric Model Y compact crossover. Tesla founder and CEO Elon Musk touted a driving range of up to 300 miles and a zero-to-60-mph time of as little as 3.5 seconds when he unveiled the Model Y during a livestreamed event in March. The 2020 Tesla Model Y looks very similar to the compact Model 3 sedan but can be outfitted with a third row of seats for a total seating capacity of seven.
Pros Peppy electric powertrain, spacious cargo hold, cutting-edge technology features.
Cons Chassis isn't as taut as the four-door Model 3, fit-and-finish needs polish, too reliant on the touchscreen for simple vehicle settings.
