Jeep Wrangler review
Unlike many modern off-road wannabes, the Jeep Wrangler is a true go-anywhere, any way four-wheel drive with a distinctly retro, WWII-inspired feel. It breaks all the rules to achieve great comfort, safety and practicality and is well-equipped to tackle motorways or mountains. Continue for our complete Jeep Wrangler review.
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Pros
- One of the best off-roaders
- Looks serious
- Very capable wherever it goes
Cons
- Quite expensive to run
- Very wide to park
Interior
Our rating: 7/10
Driving position
Like a cowboy mounting his trusty steed, you climb up into the Wrangler – though you’re given a hand with the running boards as a step.
That old-fashioned upright windscreen sets the tone – high and upright.
Older versions are more truck-like with a big steering wheel and vertical utilitarian dashboard. More recent models have been gentrified a little.
This version has gone as far as soft-touch materials and a small, sporty steering wheel.
Tech and features
Despite the touchscreen infotainment system, the cabin still feels suitably retro overall.
The original Jeeps had fold-down windscreens and no roof - and here the traditional has stuck.
Even the newer models have a fold-down screen and removable doors.
There is a choice of roof options - manually removable panels, an electric sliding roof or a full hard top that can be lifted off.
The sound equipment has been good for many years. Wrangler owners like a good loud stereo.
Some versions have speakers built into the roof bars and the latest model comes with an eight-speaker Alpine sound system with steering wheel controls.
The intrepid style of the Wrangler means there isn’t a lot of high-tech safety kit.
Performance
Our rating: 7/10
Handling and ride comfort
With heavy-duty four-wheel drive, pliable suspension, chunky tyres, high ground clearance and a protected underbody, the Wrangler has epic off-road capabilities to tackle snow, sand, rock, mud, water and gradients. Anything really.
Back on the road, it drives unlike any other car.
The normal standards of smooth, quiet motoring are disregarded.
You sit high and feel like you’re driving a truck or a tank. It feels unstoppable.
It can be fun to control the Wrangler as it wallows and bounces, roars and grumbles.
It seems to turn a simple journey into an expedition.
Practicality
Our rating: 7/10
Safety
Owners may like the simplicity, but Euro NCAP testers gave the 2018 version just one star.
Rear seats
Front seat space is good and the longer four-door model provides plenty of space in the back seats.
Accessing the rear seats in the two-door model is an adventure in itself, however, so this version of the Wrangler may suit those planning to drive solo or as a couple most of the time.
Running costs
Our rating: 6/10
Fuel economy
The rugged Wrangler is not a car for those cautiously checking fuel bills.
Older versions struggle to return close to 30mpg.
The latest models claim to return 31mpg (petrol) or 38mpg (diesel).
Insurance groups
Insurance, tax and maintenance costs will be higher than average.
The best financial news is that Wranglers keep their value for decades. Depreciation is very low.
Reliability
Reliability is usually considered differently by Wrangler owners.
Rattles and clunks are just part of the experience.
Electrical and mechanical problems aren’t unheard of, however, and used models will sometimes show the effects of off-road use.
The verdict
Interior
7/10
Performance
7/10
Practicality
7/10
Running costs
6/10
If you want a Jeep Wrangler, you’ll buy one. Doesn’t matter what we think.
You either love the looks, style and off-road prowess or you’ll tot up the price, and running costs and notice areas where it’s less refined than more practical 4x4 rivals.
The Wrangler has a cult following and there are some motorists who wouldn’t even tolerate clambering up into the driver’s seat.
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