Jeep Wrangler

The redesigned 2018 Jeep Wrangler (known as the JL) represents a big improvement to the off-roading icon while remaining true to its heritage. The essential Wrangler hallmarks remain, with a body-on-frame construction and solid axles. It is available in two-door and extended-length four-door configurations. There is a multitude of options that can quickly drive up the price. The V6 engine provides strong acceleration, and the eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly. While better than before, the new version's handling still lacks precision. The ride is stiff and jiggly, and there's lots of wind noise at highway speeds. Other than blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic warning, no other advance safety features are offered until 2019. A 2.0-liter turbo engine is available, and a diesel engine came in 2019. The previous generation overlapped for part of 2018, being sold as ‘Wrangler JK.’ 2021 saw the debut of the new Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid version. Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, augmented by an electric drive, the company claims the 4xe delivers 21 miles of all-electric driving. A powerful 470-hp, V8 Rubicon 392 is also new. The diesel engine was dropped for 2024.

Touting a legacy that stretches back to World War II, the Wrangler is Jeep's smallest, least expensive, and crudest model. It's changed little since its 1986 introduction. Better off-road than on, it has abrupt, numb, routine handling, tricky emergency handling, and a very noisy, punishing ride. Revamped for the 1997 model year, the Wrangler regained round headlamps and received an improved interior. Otherwise, the basic formula continues, with cramped quarters, a dreadful ride, and vague, imprecise steering. The 2001 model features a quieter, better-padded convertible top. A four-speed automatic arrived for 2003, replacing the old three-speed unit.