A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4.1/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.8
Comfort & Interior
3.6
Running Costs
3.2
Practicality
3.9
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for an off road vehicle that can handle anything from city streets to mountain trails? The Jeep Wrangler stands as the ultimate go anywhere SUV that delivers authentic adventure capability without compromise. This iconic 4×4 combines legendary off road prowess with surprising everyday usability, making it perfect for drivers who refuse to be limited by the terrain. The Wrangler’s removable doors and roof panels offer an open air driving experience that no other SUV can match, while its solid axles and advanced four wheel drive systems provide genuine trail ready performance.
In the competitive off road SUV market, the Wrangler faces competition from vehicles like the Land Rover Discovery and Toyota Land Cruiser, but few rivals can match its combination of rugged capability and distinctive character. The Wrangler excels where others struggle, offering rock crawling ability that puts most other SUVs to shame while still providing comfortable highway cruising. Modern Wrangler models feature improved ride quality and updated technology that makes them genuinely practical for daily use.
Whether you’re planning weekend camping trips or need a reliable vehicle for harsh weather conditions, the Jeep Wrangler delivers unmatched versatility and adventure ready appeal. Its strong resale value and passionate enthusiast community make it an excellent choice for buyers seeking both capability and character. The Wrangler proves that you don’t have to sacrifice adventure for practicality, offering the best of both worlds in one distinctive package.
How Does the Jeep Wrangler Drive?
The Jeep Wrangler prioritises capability over speed, and that’s exactly as it should be. The most common engine is the 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit producing around 270 horsepower, providing adequate power for both highway cruising and trail climbing. There’s also a 3.6-litre V6 option with 284 horsepower for those wanting extra grunt. Both engines deliver torque in a way that feels unstoppable when you’re navigating rocky terrain or steep inclines.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
2.0L 4-cylinder Turbo / 3.6L V6
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Power Output
270 - 284 bhp
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0-60 mph
8.1 - 6.9 seconds
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MPG Combined
25 - 30 mpg
- Boot Space
- 548 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★☆ (Euro NCAP)
How Comfortable Is the Jeep Wrangler?
Step inside the Wrangler and you’ll find a cabin that prioritises function over luxury. The dashboard design is refreshingly simple, with chunky controls that work even when wearing gloves. The materials feel robust rather than premium, with hard-wearing plastics and rubberised surfaces that can handle getting dirty. The central touchscreen infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keeping you connected even when exploring remote locations.
The Jeep Wrangler is a rugged, no-nonsense off-roader that thrives on capability over comfort. Its 2.0-liter turbo and 3.6-liter V6 engines deliver robust torque for conquering trails, though refinement is secondary. The removable roof and doors offer an unmatched open-air thrill, but interior quality and running costs lag. While not the smoothest cruiser, its versatility and adventurous spirit make it ideal for drivers who prioritize freedom over luxury.
Is the Jeep Wrangler Expensive to Run?
The Wrangler’s running costs reflect its focus on capability rather than efficiency. Fuel economy typically ranges from 25 to 30 MPG, which is modest by modern SUV standards but acceptable given the vehicle’s capabilities. Insurance costs tend to be reasonable for the class, though they may be higher than for mainstream alternatives. The initial purchase price positions it as a premium offering, significantly more expensive than regular family SUVs.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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Jeep Wrangler
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Toyota Hilux
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Land Rover Defender
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £42,000 | £38,000 | £45,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 2.0L Turbo 270hp | 2.4L Diesel 150hp | 2.0L Turbo 300hp |
| Power | 270 bhp | 150 bhp | 300 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 8.1 seconds | 11.2 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 28 mpg | 35 mpg | 31 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 548 litres | 1085 litres | 397 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Removable doors, Solid axles, Iconic styling | Proven reliability, Load capacity, Towing ability | Premium interior, Advanced tech, Land Rover heritage |
Jeep Wrangler Practicality & Boot Space
For such a capable off-roader, the Wrangler is surprisingly practical for everyday use. The 548-litre boot in four-door models easily handles the weekly shopping or luggage for a family holiday. The rear seats fold down to expand cargo space significantly, and the flat loading floor makes it easy to carry bulky items. Towing capacity is impressive, making it suitable for those who need to haul boats, trailers, or caravans.
Bought my Wrangler two years ago and absolutely love it. Yes, it’s thirsty and noisy, but the smiles per mile are incredible. Taking the doors off in summer is pure joy, and it’s taken me places I never thought possible. Best purchase I’ve made.
The Jeep Wrangler stands apart in the crowded SUV market by staying true to its core mission. It delivers unmatched off-road capability, iconic styling, and unique open-air freedom wrapped in a surprisingly practical package. While it may not offer the on-road refinement or fuel economy of mainstream alternatives, it provides experiences and capabilities that money simply can’t buy elsewhere.