Jeep Wrangler

The 2017 Jeep Wrangler is like a shark or a crocodile. It has evolved over many years to reach a pinnacle of form and function. It follows a certain logic and is a tool for a specific task. As arguably the best off-roader ever, it's certainly one of the only vehicles where fun and freedom can win out over caution.

That ability to roam where and when you want -- and not worry about getting stuck -- is dear to Wrangler owners' hearts. This vehicle allows you to travel roofless, doorless and even without a windshield if the whim arises. Embracing the minimalist cabin and opting for the most affordable model requires only a sacrifice of creature comforts, not capability. That's part of the joy of owning one of these truly iconic Jeeps.

Despite lacking modern safety features, reasonable fuel consumption or sophisticated styling, the Wrangler and its 4-door sibling, the Wrangler Unlimited, are among the best-known, most-loved vehicles on the road and off it. Because of that, they also enjoy strong resale values and are estimated to retain 54.9 percent of their value over 5 years.

Both models are available with removable soft tops or hardtop shells.

What's New for 2017?

A few new exterior colors have been added. And a Cold Weather bundle joins LED headlights and fog lamps on the options list.

What We Like

Open-air cockpit; phenomenal off-road ability; wide range of trims and prices; chunky styling; it's a Jeep

What We Don't

Poor fuel economy; poor crash-test scores; uncomfortable rear seats; removing the roof is less than straightforward

How Much?

$24,990 to $38,440

Fuel Economy

All Wranglers are powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine rated at 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard; a 5-speed automatic is an optional extra. Four-wheel drive with a dual-range transfer case is standard, while the Rubicon model also gets an extra-aggressive crawl ratio for even more rock-crawling talent.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rates the regular Wrangler at 17 miles per gallon in the city, 21 mpg on the highway and 18 mpg in combined driving with either transmission. The Unlimited with the manual transmission achieves 16 mpg city/21 mpg hwy/18 mpg combined; the automatic transmission delivers 16 mpg city/20 mpg hwy/18 mpg combined.

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