Jeep Wrangler Pros And Cons

PROS: Good Things
On the plus side, here are 20 reasons you might want to own a Jeep Wrangler:

• 4x4 capabilities -- can handle any road anywhere
• Height advantage over most cars -- greater visibility
• Classic design / unique look
• Can be personalized & customized to your liking -- lots of options & aftermarket items
• Unique styling serves as both an SUV and a convertible
• Good heating system
• A simply constructed vehicle that's easy to repair
• Short wheelbase, powerful drivetrain, body size & tight turning ratios all great for off-roading
• Small size & lightweight, makes it a cinch to swing into tight spots
• Great vehicle for all seasons
• Jeep fraternity of friends for life
• Rugged and durable -- lasts for many years & many miles
• Handles well on pavement, mud, sand, snow, water, etc.
• Appeals to adults & teens alike
• Durable interior made for weathering the elements
• Fun to drive -- turns every drive into an adventure
• Relatively low price / good value
• Excellent resale value
• Parts are plentiful and cheap for repairs
• American made

CONS: Not So Good Things
On the flip side, here are 20 reasons you might not want to own a Jeep Wrangler:

• Awkward to get into -- requires high step in
• Slower acceleration, especially on interstates
• Limited storage space -- for luggage, groceries, etc.
• Noisy -- road, wind, engine, and tire noise
• Firm suspension results in a stiffer, bumpier ride
• Rear visibility can be a challenge with the top on
• Tall, boxy profile is not aerodynamic meaning greater wind resistance & wind noise
• Less than ideal front seat positions for taller drivers
• Everything is an "option" -- carpet, steel doors, rear seat, etc.
• Outdated appearance of gauges and switches
• Slow steering
• Most are only 4-seaters (comfortably), and it's difficult to get into the backseat
• Small, narrow, doors
• Rear-view mirror is in the line of forward vision for taller drivers
• Cramped rear seating
• Lack of side mirrors when you take off the doors
• Uninsulated roof
• No lockable trunk/cargo area
• Less practical in colder climates
• Poor fuel economy (typical of SUVs)

Is A Jeep Wrangler Right For You?
One thing's for sure, you'll either love it or you'll hate it. Your first test drive in a Wrangler will help to clarify things a lot for you.

And you should know... while some things are listed as "negatives" such as slow acceleration, stiff suspension, and slow steering", these are precisely the features that make the Wrangler a great offroad vehicle.  For example, you don't want quick, responsive steering when you are rock climbing or even just wandering on an off-highway trail. 

In fact, it may just be that (even against your better judgment, and even though your instincts are telling you that a Wrangler is not a practical purchase) you may be one of the lucky ones who manages to derive enough pleasure from owning a Jeep Wrangler to make it worth it in the end.

On the other hand, if after exploring the best things and the worst things about owning a Wrangler, you still can't decide... then make your own list of every vehicular need you have, and highlight any that the Jeep Wrangler cannot provide. Then test drive it again.

Whatever you do, don't get a Jeep Wrangler on an impulse buy! Instead, do your homework thoroughly. Research it. Test drive it (...a few times). Test drive other vehicles (...a few times). Talk to other Jeep Wrangler owners and (especially) ex-owners.

Do yourself a favor... at least give the Jeep Wrangler test drive. Or, better yet, rent one before you buy one! (We did.)