2023 Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler has poor fuel economy, wind noise, an uncomfortable interior, and reliability scores near the bottom of Consumer Reports’ rankings. Despite those results, the Wrangler has been popular for decades. Next to endless options of aerodynamic compact SUVs, its boxy, military-inspired design makes it timeless and charming. It’s also especially capable off-road, and is available as a pickup truck. The Wrangler’s rugged appeal benefits the rest of Jeep’s lineup of small, medium, and large SUVs. The Cherokee and Wagoneer, despite their name’s historical appeal, usually score low on Consumer Reports’ customer satisfaction surveys. However, shoppers drawn to the Jeep name who are comfortable with sacrificing handling and fuel economy for three-row capacity can consider the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. Low reliability scores across the brand make it difficult to recommend buying a used Jeep.

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 advanced 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. For 2025, power windows and door locks became standard on all trims.