Is the 2024 Jeep Wrangler a Good SUV? 6 Pros and 3 Cons

The Jeep Wrangler was just refreshed for model-year 2024, although you get a pass if it looks pretty much the same to you. The very definition of an iconic design, the current Wrangler has been around since the 2018 model year, but it also bears more than a passing resemblance to its forebears from the middle of the last century.

Related: 2024 Jeep Wrangler Review: A Refreshed Off-Roader

Jeep has expanded the Wrangler lineup since the current incarnation made its debut, with new variants including a diesel V-6 (which has since been discontinued), plug-in hybrid and the hyperactive, 470-horsepower Rubicon 392. But the brand has also faced its first new direct competitor in decades in the form of the Ford Bronco, forcing Jeep to up its Wrangler game.

Changes for the 2024 model are predictably incremental, focusing more on refinement and increased capability rather than styling updates — though there are a few of those, too. There’s also a new infotainment system and added safety features.

Cars.com Senior Research Editor Damon Bell recently sampled several 2024 Wranglers in assorted trims and found the freshening brings improved sophistication and a more enjoyable Wrangler, but there are still some areas leaving room for improvement. Tap the link above to read Bell’s complete review; for a quick look, here are six things we like about the 2024 Jeep Wrangler and three things we don’t.

Things We Like

1. Upgraded Uconnect

One of the more noteworthy changes is the arrival of Uconnect 5, the latest version of Jeep’s infotainment system. Said to be five times more powerful than the previous version, the system is easy to use and brings a big 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and the capability of adding up to five driver profiles with customized settings for climate, seating position, entertainment and more.

2. Backcountry Navigation

A new Trails Offroad feature adds enhanced off-road information to navigation-equipped Wranglers, including 200 preloaded trail maps that include notes about difficulty level, camping amenities along the way and charging locations. A $39.99 annual subscription expands the offering to include more than 3,000 trails.

3. Added Amenities

Power front seats are now standard in High Altitude and above trims, marking the first availability of this feature in a Wrangler. Jeep says the seat motors and hardware won’t affect the Wrangler’s ability to ford water up to 34 inches deep. The same trims also get acoustic front glass for reduced cabin noise, thicker carpet and added sound-deadening foam.

4. Off-Road Enhancements

New features for off-roading include handy anchor points on the dash for GoPro cameras and other devices, a factory-installed Warn winch with an 8,000-pound capacity on the Rubicon trim, and a more capable full-float Dana 44 HD rear axle that can accommodate larger wheels and tires and helps increase towing capacity to 5,000 pounds. A small but helpful change is the elimination of the fender-mounted radio antenna that could get snagged on branches; it’s been replaced by one embedded in the windshield.

5. Power Up

4xe PHEV versions get a new Power Box feature, which is essentially a big extension cord with four 120-volt outlets. It plugs into the Jeep’s charging port and uses the Wrangler’s hybrid battery to provide up to 30 amps of power for electronic devices and small appliances, no matter where you are.

6. A Safer Wrangler

New safety features for 2024 include standard front and rear side curtain airbags and structural enhancements for greater crash protection. In addition, Sport S and higher trims get forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control with stop and go capability, while blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert is now standard with High Altitude trims and optional with others.

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Things We Don’t Like

1. Still Noisy

Even with Jeep’s efforts to combat noise with additional sound-deadening materials and acoustic glass on upper trims, the Wrangler remains one of the noisier passenger vehicles you can buy. This will come as no surprise to Jeep devotees, who undoubtedly don’t care, but it’s worth noting for new buyers, particularly if they’re considering adding larger wheels and off-road tires.

2. Cabin Constraints

Other Wrangler drawbacks include a narrow cabin and driving position, as well as limited legroom, particularly for taller drivers. Because of the flat windshield and a steering wheel that’s closer than in most vehicles, the driving position can take some getting used to. Again, brand enthusiasts know all this, and the Wrangler’s idiosyncrasies arguably add to its charm. Just be aware if you’re considering your first Wrangler.

3. On-Road Manners

As capable as the Wrangler is off-road, the flip side is that its prowess in the boonies extracts a penalty in on-road drivability. On pavement, the steering is nervous and vague, requiring a fair bit of correction to keep the Wrangler on course. And while the ride has improved compared to previous generations, the short wheelbase and relatively stiff suspension can make for a busier ride than what’s found with some competitors.

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