The 2017 Jeep Wrangler is a unique off-roader bolstered by the freedom of open air driving. Its aging design is a throwback to the past, but it offers just enough contemporary features and modern amenities. The Jeep Wrangler is a throwback to the brand's earliest days as a military supplier. Whether by chance or by design, the purpose-built off-roader has endured decades and has become one of Jeep's best-selling vehicles. Offered in Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and extreme off-road Rubicon models, the Wrangler combines an throwback design with a smattering of modern amenities.
Pros It's the off-road champ Unique style, unique everything Strong, smooth V-6 Carlike touches in cabin
Cons Rough ride Poor handling on pavement Steep prices for top editions Very poor safety ratings Fussy soft tops
The 2017 Jeep Wrangler ranks 14 out of 18 Compact SUVs. The 2017 Jeep Wrangler finishes near the bottom of our compact SUV rankings. The Wrangler is one of the most capable off-road SUVs out there, but class rivals are superior in pretty much every other area (fuel efficiency, interior comfort, available technology, and cargo space, to name a few).
Pros Outstanding off-road capability Standard part-time four-wheel drive Powerful V6 engine
Cons Uncomfortable ride and subpar handling on pavement Cramped rear seats and few standard features Poor fuel economy More expensive than many rivals
For the 2017 Wrangler, Jeep has added new optional LED headlights and foglights, as well as a Cold Weather package that includes remote start, heated seats and all-weather floor mats. Although it's behind the times as far as tech goes, the 2017 Jeep Wrangler is still one of the best go-anywhere, do-anything vehicles that money can buy. From the stripped-out Sport model all the way up to the hardcore Rubicon, there's a Jeep for every off-road scenario.
Pros All but unstoppable on the trail Unique rugged character There's a Wrangler for a variety of tastes Extensive factory and aftermarket parts support Fun to drive in its own special way.
Cons Crash test scores don't match more conventional vehicles Long braking distances On-road handling and overall comfort are lacking Soft top is difficult to operate and offers little security The latest safety and technology features are absent Subpar fuel economy compared to most modern crossovers.
The 2018 Jeep Cherokee’s weak base engine power, below-average cargo volume, and low predicted reliability rating contribute to its place in the bottom half of our rankings. However, it does have some positives, such as a comfortable ride and admirable off-road abilities.
Pros Comfortable, upscale cabin Easy-to-use infotainment system Remarkable off-road capabilities in this price range
Cons Less cargo space than most compact SUVs Underpowered base engine Below-average fuel economy Low predicted reliability rating
The 2018 Jeep Cherokee performs its crossover chores as asked, but loves the off-road tasks more.
Pros Lovely cabin trim Very good front seats Trailhawk off-road skills Lots of active-safety options Good infotainment
Cons Styling alternates from odd to derivative Fuel economy is just okay 9-speed’s occasional hiccups Interior space arrangement
Go with the Trailhawk if your budget allows. While it's more expensive than most of the other Cherokee trim levels, its exclusive feature set makes the most of the Cherokee's off-road abilities, and that's the main reason to buy a Cherokee instead of another crossover in the first place.
PROS Available V6 engine provides smooth and assertive power Absorbent suspension smooths out rough surfaces Capable and user-friendly 8.4-inch touchscreen on many models Trailhawk offers unique off-road capability for a small crossover
CONS Less cargo capacity than other small crossovers Sluggish acceleration with four-cylinder engine
