2018 Jeep Wrangler Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
What's New For 2018
This year's Wrangler is sporting a new JK emblem on the fender. The legendary Golden Eagle and Altitude Editions are back for 2018. Other than minor cosmetic changes and some options for the various editions, the Wrangler remains largely unchanged from the previous few years.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2018 Jeep Wrangler – The Pros
1. One of the Best Off-Road Vehicles Around
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler won't win any awards for on-road performance, but taking it off-road is a different story altogether. This Jeep was built for the ultimate off-road experience. If you like a vehicle for adventuring, then the Wrangler is a solid choice.
The Wrangler has a ton of ground clearance and a sturdy under-body. Protective plates make sure your vehicle is safe from damage no matter what terrain you drive over. The Wrangler is a 4X4 with plenty of power to get you over obstacles and through snow, mud or thick vegetation. It also steers and handles like a champ when off the beaten path.
2. Strong V-6 Engine
The 3.6-liter V-6 Pentastar engine has been tweeked to get even more power out of it for this year's model. The engine produces 290 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. This standard base engine produces more than enough power for great acceleration, towing and climbing over rough terrain.
Having such a powerful base engine as a standard feature is great, but if it's not enough horses, there is also 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that may produce close to 300 hp. Either choice should provide plenty enough power for work, play or casual driving.
3. Rugged Exterior Styling With Modern Luxury on the Inside
You just can't beat the classic, rugged styling of a Jeep. The Wrangler is a mainstay on roadways and off-road for good reason. The military-styling and classic angles look as good as ever in 2018.
The most rugged of vehicles still has a modern, luxurious interior with plenty of high-tech features and modern accoutrements. The infotainment system, gauges and other dashboard controls are all well designed. Everything is placed in an intuitive and easy-to-use spot.
4. Solidly Built and Reliable
Jeep has always put a lot of solid engineering and thought into the Wrangler's design. It's hard to get a gauge on the reliability of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler, being such a new model, but previous versions are at the top of their class. The Wrangler has a rugged design and suspension, meant to take lots of abuse. Jeeps tend to last forever and are easy to work with if there is a problem.
5. 6-Speed Manual Transmission is Standard
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler is one of the few SUVs to come with a manual transmission at all. The ability to manually shift gears is essential for the best off-roading experience. Many modern SUVs come standard with an automatic transmission these days. Some don't even have the option for a stick shift at all.
6. Versatility in Uses and Configurations
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler is a versatile vehicle. It can be used for a variety of off-roading duties. It has a number of different top choices and configurations. Tops can be removed for some open-air cruising. Seats can be manipulated to provide for more cargo space.
7. Comes in 2 or 4 Door Models
The 2018 Jeep Wranglers comes with the option for 2 or 4 doors. This is handy if you're more of a lone adventurer, or want the Wrangler to do family duty. The 4 door model offers more rear-seat space. It also makes it easier to access those rear seats.
8. Tons of Standard Features
Many SUVs in this class and price range are very basic transporters. Not so with the Jeep Wrangler. It comes packed with a lot of standard features that won't be costing you a fortune to add on.
9. History and Nostalgia
The Jeep Wrangler has an extensive and fascinating history. Its military ties and uses make it legendary and contribute to its cool factor. It also makes it a very nostalgic vehicle. Almost everyone can look back and remember someone they know having a Jeep Wrangler in any decade. This history and nostalgia also means there are tons of after-market products for the Wrangler.
10. Good Towing Capacity
The Jeep Wrangler has great towing capacity for a vehicle of its size. The stronger engine choices can tow up to 3000 pounds.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2018 Jeep Wrangler – The Cons
1. Loud Wind and Outside Noises
The wind noises can be quite distracting, especially at high speeds or on the highway. Jeep hasn't done much to prevent outside noises from becoming a nuisance.
2. Rough Ride Quality on the Road
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler feels amazing when driven off-road. It is always a fun driving experience. Daily driving and long commutes are a different experience and not for the better. You will feel every bump in the road. The Wrangler is noisy, rough riding and vibrates on smooth pavement. This vehicle is more for the adventurer than the daily commute to work.
3. Fussy Infotainment System
The infotainment system is just okay. The speaker system sounds good enough. Everything is just average. It suffers from some fussy behavior. Responses lag when using the touchscreen and controls.
4. Soft Tops are Difficult to Use
It's nice having the option of a removable soft top. It's not so nice having to remove or put the top back on, on a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. If you are cruising with the top down and it starts to rain, prepare for some frustration.
How it Stacks up to the Competition
The classic Jeep Wrangler is a unique vehicle in a class all its own. It is the undisputed champion of off-road vehicles. The history and military styling of the Jeep set it apart from all of the competition.
The closest competition the 2018 Jeep Wrangler has comes from Toyota's 4Runner and Land Crusier, as well as the Land Rover Discovery. All of the vehicles have comparable base prices. Most are better, more comfortable rides on the pavement. The Jeep is a very unique vehicle that will still best please its target demographic.
Conclusion
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler is not the best vehicle for everyone. If you want it primarily for tough, off-road duty, you'd be hard pressed to find a better option. If you are primarily looking for a family wagon, then there are probably better choices for you. The Wrangler is the best choice for anyone with an adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors.
