2017 Jeep Wrangler: What's Changed

CARS.COM

• Most significant changes: LED headlights and fog lamps are standard on Sahara and Rubicon trims, optional on Sport models.
• Price change: Base prices are up by $100 on the Wrangler Sport; $200 on the Unlimited Sport; and $450 on the Sahara and Rubicon models in both body styles.
• On sale: Early September
• Which should you buy, 2016 or 2017? 2016

Related: 2016 Easter Jeep Safari Concepts at the Woodward Dream Cruise: Photo Gallery

Jeep is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2016, and the Wrangler is the current model that remains truest to the brand’s heritage in appearance and as a rugged, do-it-all utility vehicle.

The Wrangler returns for 2017 in two-door form and as the four-door Wrangler Unlimited with modest changes. LED headlights and fog lamps are standard on the Sahara and Rubicon models and optional on the Sport. Also new is a Cold Weather Group available on Sport models with the S option package and on the Rubicon trim. It includes B.F. Goodrich KO2 tires, an engine-block heater, heated seats, all-weather slush mats and other features that vary by model.

Jeep is preparing to launch a redesigned Wrangler that could debut as a 2018 model, so it’s likely that the current generation is nearing the end of its run.The two-door version seats four and the four-door model seats five. At 184 inches in overall length, the Unlimited is 20 inches longer than the two-door model. Both come with trademark removable doors, a manual folding soft top with a sunroof feature, standard four-wheel drive and a 3.6-liter V-6 engine. A six-speed manual transmission is standard and a five-speed automatic is optional. Removable half-doors also are optional.

Whereas most of today’s SUVs are built off of front-drive car platforms, the Wrangler continues with a body-on-frame design and all the requisite hardware for serious off-roading. Few SUVs can match its capabilities as a rock crawler, but most easily exceed it in terms of on-road comfort. You will have to endure a rough ride, mediocre handling and abundant noise on paved surfaces to enjoy its off-road prowess.

Jeep sales are on a roll and the Wrangler was the brand’s top-selling model through July, proof that a significant number of buyers are willing to sacrifice comfort for off-road capability.