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Life With the Jeep Wrangler: What Do Owners Really Think?

consumer comments on jeep wrangler my18 21 gif Jeep Wrangler owner reviews | Cars.com graphic by Paul Dolan

Few vehicles have a fan base as enthusiastic as the Jeep Wrangler. From giving the customary “Jeep Wave” to countless forums, clubs and meetups, Wrangler owners are known for being loud and proud. Owning a Wrangler is the only way to gain access to the exclusive club, but is the membership really worth it? To see if the SUV meets the needs of owners from an everyday driver’s perspective, we analyzed Cars.com user reviews of the fourth-generation (2018-21) Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited and compared them to Cars.com expert evaluations.

Related: The 470-HP Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 392 Is Completely Bonkers

The Wrangler JL entered the scene for the 2018 model year to replace the previous-generation Wrangler JK, though Jeep still sold the latter for an overlapping model year. The redesigned Wrangler kept the SUV’s styling and ethos intact while adding many user-friendly features to the mix. The SUV was upgraded with available LED headlights, better visibility, and an easier-to-remove soft top and windshield. Read on to see what Wrangler owners and Cars.com experts like about the current Wrangler, as well as some common pet peeves. Plus, get the scoop on the SUV’s powertrain options, features and pricing.

Wrangler Raves and Rants

jeep wrangler rubicon 392 2021 01 oem jpg 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 | Manufacturer image

Fondness for the Wrangler’s go-anywhere capability emerged as a common thread among Cars.com users, which should come as no surprise. We dug deeper to identify other accolades: Customization, a smoother ride (certainly versus previous iterations of the SUV), competence in heavy snow and ample interior space were the most prominent. Wrangler owners have proven to be a devoted bunch, and the positive reviews (raves) largely outweigh the negative ones (rants). Grievances include the Wrangler’s on-road comfort, which is still not its forte, and complaints around the removable roof and the four-door model’s steep price tag. (References to the Wrangler include both the Wrangler two-door and Wrangler Unlimited four-door SUVs unless otherwise specified, but the two are covered separately on Cars.com’s research and inventory pages. Comments have been edited for clarity.)

Rave: It’s Customizable

jeep wrangler rubicon mopar 2018 01 angle exterior front grey off road scaled jpg 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon | Cars.com photo by Aaron Bragman

The Wrangler is Jeep’s second most-popular model after the Grand Cherokee, but it’s hard to beat among any rivals when it comes to customization. A multitude of trim levels, packages and accessories from Mopar, Jeep’s performance parts division, cater to a wide range of lifestyles. Recognizing that Wrangler owners have a thing for modifying and accessorizing their SUVs, Jeep added threaded exterior bolt holes in the 2018 redesign to help owners mount lights or racks. Aftermarket add-ons aren’t required to personalize a Wrangler, however. Factory options like the available Xtreme Recon Package upgrade the SUV’s off-road prowess with all-terrain tires, improved approach and departure angles, higher ground clearance and uniquely tuned shock absorbers. The Wrangler’s customization potential emerged as one of its most-loved qualities among owners, and our experts agree that a modified Wrangler infuses more fun into the ownership experience.

“I love it! It’s very sporty, reliable, not bad on gas and I can drive it anywhere! I always get compliments on my Jeep! You can customize it to your liking.” — Cars.com consumer review for 2018 Wrangler; Valley, Ala.

“It looks to be perfect for my needs and is highly customizable; it’s very comfy as well. I am looking forward to fun adventures traveling this summer.” — 2021 Wrangler; Minneapolis

“I recently purchased a 2021 Firecracker Red Jeep Wrangler Sport with a six-speed manual. I love it and can’t wipe the smile off my face. Without a doubt, the JL is a much more refined Jeep compared to the TJ [1997-2006 generation]: Smoother ride, quieter, and it has better performance. But, no way is it going to stay stock. Although I have no interest in off-roading with it, it will get mods as the funds become available. It’s fun and keeps you young.” — 2021 Wrangler; Cassville, Wis.

“It’s a Jeep: It’s not fancy, it allows you to bolt things on, take things off, and customize to your heart’s desires. There’s nothing else on the road like it — it’s kind of an SUV, kind of a truck, kind of a car, but not really any one of those things. You either love Jeeps or you hate them.” — 2019 Wrangler; Austin, Texas

“It fits my two grown kids and my two big dogs. There are so many aftermarket accessories to make it mine and there are multiple clubs that invite me to hang and encourage my growing obsession of my vehicle.” — 2018 Wrangler; St. Petersburg, Fla.

Rave: An Ironed-Out Ride

jeep wrangler 392 2021  02 dynamic  exterior  overhead  red jpg 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 392 | Cars.com photo by Evan Sears

Cars.com’s review of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler credited the SUV’s newfound road manners to its revised suspension, wider axles, improved tires and a new electrohydraulic steering system. Wrangler owners noticed these changes, which elevated the SUV’s ride quality. Many repeat buyers commented on the SUV’s smooth ride on paved roads, especially compared to the prior generation’s bumpy, more trucklike ride.

“Although I test drove several Wranglers, after driving my Willys for several days, it turns out to actually be better than I had imagined. The interior is really quiet so you can hold a conversation at normal levels! So far, the fit and finish seems worthy of a $40,000 vehicle. It’s so different from my 1990s Wrangler; the local and off-road handling is absolutely stellar.” — 2020 Wrangler; Bend, Ore.

“So far, it’s exactly what we’ve come to expect from a Jeep Wrangler. It rides stiff like a Wrangler, but has a smoother ride than our older Wranglers. Everything feels sturdy, unlike [in] many new cars.” — 2019 Wrangler; Chicago

“I have owned a 2012 Wrangler in the past. The 2019 [Wrangler] has a much nicer and smoother ride. It still has the Jeep look, which is a good thing; no need to change what has worked for so long.” — 2019 Wrangler; Cape Cod, Mass.

“Great interior styling and better than expected pick-up. It has a less bumpy ride than the previous Wrangler. The technology package and creature comforts are amazing; the push-button retractable roof is a definite plus. It has all the safety features for new drivers that parents could want.” — 2020 Wrangler; Sewell, N.J.

“I love the modern improvements. I had a Wrangler 20 years ago and it was fun. Today it is still great fun but with a smoother ride and more comfort. Now the whole family can enjoy it!” — 2020 Wrangler; Naples, Maine

“The engineers got it right for off-roading. In stock form, it will do as well or even better than many modified Jeeps in certain situations. It will out-climb anything in very loose rock at extreme angles. Also, it has the best road manners of any Jeep ever — you can actually ride in comfort. But, it really shines in rough wheeling.” — 2019 Wrangler; Lubbock, Texas

Rave: It Plows Through Snow

jeep wrangler 2021 001 black exterior rear angle suv scaled jpg 2021 Jeep Wrangler | Manufacturer image

The Wrangler’s go-anywhere persona is often associated with extreme activities like rock crawling or water fording, but owners have found that the SUV’s capability also translates to a more practical use: driving through heavy snow. The Wrangler Sport and Sahara offer Jeep’s Command-Trac four-wheel drive, a part-time system with high and low ranges. An optional Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential brings extra grip in inclement weather.

“This car is exactly what I am looking for, especially during the winter months and traveling with a small trailer in tow. I wanted something reliable and could handle snow-covered streets.” — 2020 Wrangler; Cincinnati

“I’m a female driver who drives in all weather. What I enjoy most is not having to shovel my car out of a parking space. I also have the luxury of taking off [the] top in the summer and enjoying the ride. Con: It’s not fuel-efficient.” — 2021 Wrangler; Chicago

“This car is great in any kind of weather. Smooth ride, roomy and looks great. Would recommend Wranglers to anyone with an occupation that doesn’t give snow days [off].” — 2021 Wrangler; Philadelphia

“Loads of fun driving this thing through the snow: 1 foot, 2 feet, fluffy or packed by the snowplow, it didn’t matter. Shift it into 4WD and point it where you want it to go, and it just goes over all of it without any drama. Nice and slow, no need for momentum. It just went right through the snow.” — 2020 Wrangler; New York

“With my Jeep Wrangler, I don’t have to worry about getting to work on snowy days anymore. I just put it into four-wheel drive and go.” — 2018 Wrangler; Norman, Okla.

“I’m from New England where the weather sucks for 4-5 months out of the year. This thing is a monster in the snow.” — 2019 Wrangler; Warwick, R.I.

Rave: The Size Is Right

jeep wrangler rubicon 4xe 2021 04   angle  doors off  exterior  front  silver jpg 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe | Cars.com photo by Aaron Bragman

The two- and four-door Wrangler’s wheelbase grew in the 2018 redesign, adding an inch of legroom in the backseat. Wrangler JL owners tout the vehicle’s passenger and cargo space as generous and practical. Cars.com’s expert reviewers lauded the interior as not only roomier but more user-friendly compared to the previous generation. The SUV’s rear seats remain small, but its improved recline angle and added amenities, like climate-control vents and cupholders, are redeeming qualities for backseat passengers.

“It has a smoother ride than I expected. So many more electronic features than I’ve had in other vehicles. Love the room, but it’s compact at the same time.” — 2020 Wrangler; Sterling, Ohio

“This is my third Jeep and I love it. I like it because it is easy to drive and park; it runs great. The back seat folds completely so you get a large cargo area.” — 2019 Wrangler; Peachtree City, Ga.

“Perfect size to haul people and things around. Love the look, and the simplicity of the inside. It’s very accessible and looks nice at the same time.” — 2018 Wrangler; Springfield, Mo.

“The vehicle is great so far: Acceleration is great, [and] the ride is a little bumpy, but it’s a Jeep. There is plenty of room for what I need it to do.” — 2018 Wrangler; Moyock, N.C.

“This is the best Jeep Wrangler model ever made. The past YJ, TJ, JK models are great, but this Jeep JL 2018 Wrangler Sahara Automatic V-6 is the best one yet. The comfort and modern amenities are top of the line. The interior fits my family of four and has enough cargo space for a stroller, scooter, Onewheel XR and beach chairs.” — 2018 Wrangler; West Palm Beach, Fla.

Rant: On-Pavement Plights

jeep wrangler rubicon 392 2021 11 oem jpg 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 | Manufacturer image

Although the current generation of the Wrangler brings an improved on-road driving experience, some owners are quick to point out that the SUV still feels more at home on trails than pavement. Complaints range from loose steering at highway speeds to a rough ride around the city.

Our experts agree that the body-on-frame Wrangler is not trying to emulate a cushy, car-based SUV: “It feels like a modern mid-size pickup truck, such as a Chevrolet Colorado or Toyota Tacoma, in that it’s no longer a penalty box, but it’s still not quite the smooth and well-damped environment of a Jeep Grand Cherokee,” said Cars.com reviewer Aaron Bragman in his 2018 review.

“The Rubicon JL goes anywhere off-road. It has a great drivetrain, but I cannot drive on-road for more than two hours. It has small seats, over-sensitive steering and a noisy engine.” — 2019 Wrangler; Klamath Falls, Ore.

“This is a fun car to own, especially for recreational purposes. If you only want it for riding around town, you may be disappointed, but if you want to go off-road you’ll be pleased. It’s not your typical SUV for running around town; the ride is rough and I personally didn’t want a bunch of bells and whistles on it. We wanted the Jeep for a fun car we could use for camping, off-roading, etc., and that’s what it’s good for. I wouldn’t want it for everyday use.” — 2020 Wrangler; Dry Ridge, Ky.

“After a very short ownership experience of a new Jeep Wrangler, I could not wait to trade it for a safer and better-riding vehicle. This new JL was the fourth Jeep I have owned and the most disappointing. The steering at highway speeds can be downright dangerous. I should have considered the consumer reviews that expressed concern with the steering and handling of the new JL. They turned out to be correct and accurate.” — 2020 Wrangler; Canton, Ga.

“It’s a good vehicle. The steering can be a bit stressful on the highway in certain driving conditions, but all in all, it’s a fun vehicle to own. I’m looking forward to an updated steering box to correct this issue. Regardless, I would still recommend this vehicle.” — 2020 Wrangler; Baltimore

Rant: Roof Struggles

19 jeep wrangler 2019 exterior  retracting roof jpg 2019 Jeep Wrangler | Cars.com photo by Christian Lantry

Jeep simplified the process of removing the Wrangler’s roof and windshield in the SUV’s 2018 redesign. The most significant change made to the new JL’s roof was the ease of removing the soft top, now free of the prior setup’s cumbersome zippers: “The tongue-and-groove fasteners on the new soft top make raising and lowering the top unbelievably easy, and, like the newly easy-to-lower windshield, it means that people are likely to use it a lot,” Bragman wrote.

Jeep also made the available hardtop lighter and faster to remove, but the process is mostly unchanged from that of the previous Wrangler. Despite these improvements, some owners still struggled to remove the roof manually. To eliminate the hassles of the convertible roof, Jeep now offers an available Sky One-Touch Power-Top as one of its many roof options. The feature, which is available only on the Wrangler Unlimited four-door model, can open and close the roof automatically at speeds up to 60 mph. Unlike the manual roof, Wrangler owners rave about the ease of using the automatic convertible top.

“The hardtop only takes 10 minutes to take off, but it’s still a pain; it’s definitely a two-person job. And then there is the issue of where to store this big thing. It’s not like houses in New York City have big garages. We’ll see how often I take it off once the summer comes around.” — 2020 Wrangler; New York

“It’s my first Jeep. It’s fun to drive and it really is a great ride for Florida. The roof is manual, and though it’s fun to drive when off, it’s not that easy or convenient to remove.” — 2021 Wrangler; Naples, Fla.

“I am pretty disappointed with the major changes made in this vehicle. I can’t open the back window without taking the top off. There’s no way to just open it for the ride. The space for transporting anything is very limited (like when grocery shopping). Otherwise, I love the Jeep.” — 2020 Wrangler; Racine, Wis.

Rant: Hard-to-Swallow Price

jeep wrangler unlimited eco diesel 2020 22 blue  exterior  profile jpg 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon EcoDiesel | Cars.com photo by Brian Wong

Even owners who otherwise gave the Wrangler rave reviews claim that the SUV’s biggest flaw is its hefty price tag. Most of these rants were linked to the four-door Wrangler Unlimited’s starting sticker price of $34,820 (including a $1,595 destination fee) for the 2022 Sport trim. The full price breakdown for new and used Wranglers can be found in the Trims and Pricing section below.

“The new Jeep [Wrangler] is a big upgrade over my 2008 JK. They definitely jack up the price just based on the brand alone and it isn’t a good value for money. But at the end of the day, a Jeep is a Jeep, and if you want one, you’re gonna pay handsomely for it!” — 2020 Wrangler; Houston, Texas

“I drove a 2018 JK Wrangler while shopping for the JL Sahara model. I really felt the improvements were worth it in the JL. There is a bit of wind noise and some stiffness in the ride due to the solid axle. It’s our first Jeep and I am choking on the nearly $50,000 I paid, so don’t look to this as a value proposition. But, it’s got such a rich heritage and taking the direction of the 1941 model is a nice touch.” — 2018 Wrangler; Iowa

“We enjoy the vehicle; it’s easy to set up for towing but it is overpriced. Everything else about the vehicle is excellent.” — 2018 Wrangler; Inverness, Ill.

“Very smooth and quiet up to 45 mph, then it starts to get a little noisy. It has great performance, decent gas mileage of over 19 mpg, but it could use more interior storage. Overpriced — but you’ve got to pay to play.” — 2018 Wrangler; No location provided

Wrangler Rundown: Powertrains and Features

jeep wrangler 392 2021  17 engine jpg 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon 392 engine | Cars.com photo by Joe Bruzek

The fourth-gen Wrangler can be had with two or four doors and has a standard 3.6-liter V-6 engine. The base engine makes 285 horsepower and 260 pounds-feet of torque and is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. An eight-speed automatic transmission is optional. A turbocharged 270-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder was introduced in 2018, and a turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 followed in 2019. Some Wrangler engines employ mild-hybrid technology, which Jeep markets as eTorque.

In 2021, Jeep introduced two all-new powertrains for the Wrangler — one geared toward efficiency, the other performance. The Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid integrates two electric motors and a 400-volt battery to deliver an EPA-estimated rating of 49 mpg-equivalent in combined city and highway driving and 21 miles of all-electric range. On the other end of the spectrum, the Wrangler’s first-ever V-8 is available in the four-door Rubicon 392. The 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 makes a massive 470 hp and 470 pounds-feet of torque.

Excluding the PHEV, the Wrangler’s fuel economy runs from 14 mpg to 25 mpg in combined EPA estimates, with the Rubicon 392 and EcoDiesel V-6 bookending the range.

jeep wrangler unlimited sahara 4xe 2021 21 cockpit shot  dashboard  front row  interior jpg 2021 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited panoramic moonroof | Cars.com photo by Christian Lantry

Standard features for the Wrangler JL include removable doors, a fold-down windshield and a 5-inch dashboard display. Higher trims have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on either a 7- or 8.4-inch touchscreen.

Shoppers on a budget should note that the base Wrangler Sport comes standard with manual windows and locks, and it doesn’t offer advanced safety and driver-assist technologies found in higher trims. To get available features like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, shoppers have to upgrade to higher trims.

Trims and Pricing

jeep wrangler unlimited eco diesel 2020 01 angle  exterior  front  mountains jpg 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited | Cars.com photo by Brian Wong

The non-PHEV Wrangler comes in 11 trims, ranging from the base Sport to the Rubicon 392. The Wrangler 4xe is available in three trims: Sahara, Rubicon and High Altitude. Most models offer two or four doors excluding the Sahara, Rubicon 4xe and Rubicon 392, which are exclusively four-door.

The 2022 Wrangler Sport starts at $31,320 (all prices include a $1,595 destination fee) while the top-tier Rubicon 392’s starting price catapults to $76,395. In PHEV guise, the Wrangler 4xe starts at $54,125 for the Sahara model before any applicable tax credits.

jeep wrangler 4xe plug in hybrid 2021 oem 01 angle  charging  exterior  gray  rear jpg 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe | Manufacturer image

Shoppers looking for a used Wrangler JL may find higher-than-expected prices due to the ongoing inventory shortage. The median price for all used 2018-2021 Wranglers among Cars.com dealers was $44,497 as of November 2021. The median price for new 2021 and 2022 Wranglers (excluding the 4xe) is just marginally higher at $45,770, while new 4xe models have a median price of $59,630.

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Cars.com’s Editorial department is your source for automotive news and reviews. In line with Cars.com’s long-standing ethics policy, editors and reviewers don’t accept gifts or free trips from automakers. The Editorial department is independent of Cars.com’s advertising, sales and sponsored content departments.

Jane Ulitskaya
Former News Editor Jane Ulitskaya joined the Cars.com team in 2021, and her areas of focus included researching and reporting on vehicle pricing, inventory and auto finance trends.
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