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- Removable hard and soft tops
- Interior room
- Superior off-road performance
- Rugged styling
- Complicated top operation
- Weak performance
- Vague steering
- Clumsy handling
- Interior noise (with soft top)
- Lack of refinement
Perhaps the most unconventional of all convertibles, the Jeep Wrangler is the only SUV with a standard removable fabric top; a three-piece modular, removable "freedom top" (hardtop) is optional. In addition, the Jeep Wrangler's doors are removable, the windshield can be folded down, and the front sections can be opened to serve as a large sunroof. Reviewers report that they enjoy the Jeep Wrangler's open-air choices but are frustrated by the complex and time-consuming process of removing the top. Still, no other convertible offers as much interior space, cargo space or the option of two or four doors.
The Jeep Wrangler was redesigned for 2007, and the new model is significantly improved over the previous one, reviews say. Reviewers point out, however, that there are still many compromises that owners must make in terms of comfort and refinement. The sole engine choice is a 202-horsepower V-6, with either a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic. Reviews say acceleration is slow and the engine is thirsty, with real-world economy averaging around 16 mpg. Handling is criticized for being truck-like and clumsy, and the ride is described as stiff and bouncy (though better than previous Wrangler models). Overall, the Jeep Wrangler is the vehicle for anyone seeking an extremely capable off-roader or the enjoyment of an open-air SUV at an affordable price.
TheCarConnection.com provides an excellent summary review of the Jeep Wrangler that details its strengths and weaknesses. Edmunds.com provides a different perspective with its long-term test wrap-up that summarizes impressions after putting 15,000 miles on a four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited soft top. Consumer Reports gives valuable historical reliability data as well as a comprehensive summary review. Kelley Blue Book puts the Wrangler on its list of "Recommended" SUVs and provides a review with specs and expected resale value. ForbesAutos.com and Popular Mechanics each provide brief write-ups and include the Jeep Wrangler on their top-10 lists of practical and fun convertibles.
Our Sources
TheCarConnection.com calls the Wrangler an "extreme off-roader" that handles accordingly. The optional Freedom Top's removable panels are lauded for their ability to completely open up the cabin. On the downside, the Wrangler's open-air body allows a lot of road noise.
Review: 2008 Jeep Wrangler Review, Marty Padgett
2. Edmunds.com
During a yearlong test, Edmunds.com's 2007 Jeep Wrangler required no repairs and only $19.66 in routine maintenance costs over 15,000 miles. Total fuel economy averaged 15.9 mpg. Editors note the canvas soft top's complexity and say that overall, Wrangler "falters" compared to other SUVs.
Review: Long-Term Test: 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara 4x4, Editors of Edmunds.com
3. ConsumerReports.orgDetails/Subscribe
Consumer Reports provide a good summary review of the Jeep Wrangler and also provides data on historical and predicted reliability compiled from owner surveys.
Review: 2008 Jeep Wrangler Review, Editors of Consumer Reports
4. Kelley Blue Book
The Jeep Wrangler earns a spot on Kelley Blue Book's "Recommended" list for small SUVs thanks in part to a redesign in 2007 that makes the Wrangler "the most capable and the most livable ever." The report runs down the Wrangler's specifications, safety features, predicted resale value and more.
Review: 2008 Jeep Wrangler 2-Door X Sport Review, Editors of Kelley Blue Book
5. Cars.com
Cars.com names the Jeep Wrangler its "best deal for off-roaders," but does not include it on its Best Bet list. The Wrangler is lauded for its versatility but criticized for shortcomings that include leisurely acceleration, poor fuel economy and truck-like handling.
Review: 2008 Jeep Wrangler Review, Bill Jackson, July 14, 2008
ConsumerGuide.com puts four Jeep Wrangler models, from a base two-door to a loaded four-door Unlimited Rubicon, to the test, noting the off-road prowess of each. On pavement, they term it a "fun-in-the-sun runabout."
Review: 2008 Jeep Wrangler Full Review, Editors of ConsumerGuide.com, July 31, 2008
ForbesAutos.com lists 10 practical convertibles, including the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, the most affordable model on the list. Its four-door, five-seat layout and impressive cargo capacity are singled out.
Review: Top 10 Most Practical Convertibles, Jim Gorzelany, May 13, 2008
8. PopularMechanics.comDetails/Subscribe
Popular Mechanics highlights 10 fun and affordable roadsters and four-seat convertibles. The Jeep Wrangler is included, although the write-up is rather brief. Editors call the Wrangler "the 4x4 equivalent of a high-performance sports car" and say it offers both fun and value with a base price under $20,000.
Review: 10 Fun Convertibles That Won't Pinch at the Pump or the Lot, Editors of Popular Mechanics, July 3, 2008
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