Vehicle Type: The 2024 Jeep Wrangler is a small two-door or four-door body-on-frame SUV capable of seating up to five passengers.
Price Range: The cheapest model is the two-door Jeep Wrangler Sport. It starts at $33,890 after the destination fee has been added. The cheapest four-door Wrangler, referred to as the Wrangler Unlimited, starts at $38,490.
The most expensive model is the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392. It starts at $93,440, but that price can top six figures when options are added.
Powertrain: The 2024 Jeep Wrangler is offered with the choice of powertrains. Its standard engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine is the only one in the lineup that comes with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while others are fitted with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
A turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque is also available. It uses a dual-battery start/stop system to boost fuel economy, has a bit more torque than the V6, and only comes with the eight-speed automatic transmission.
Wrangler 4xe models feature a plug-in hybrid powertrain consisting of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, two electric motors, and a 17.3-kWh battery pack. Total powert output comes to 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, again with the eight-speed automatic transmission.
The final Wrangler engine comes exclusively on the Rubicon 392 model. It is a 6.4-liter V8 that produces 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, once again with the eight-speed automatic transmission. All Wranglers, regardless of engine, are four-wheel drive.
What’s New for 2024?
Jeep has given its flagship model a mid-cycle refresh for the 2024 model year. A light styling upgrade gives the Wrangler a revised grille and some nicer interior touches. The bigger story is the new, standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen that comes with each model. It runs the latest Uconnect 5 infotainment system and features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Active noise cancellation has been beefed up to mitigate some of the road noise that was common on Wranglers of old. It is noticeably better, but don't expect a whisper-quiet car.
Finally, Jeep has updated the powertrains. The previously available turbodiesel engine has been discontinued from the lineup altogether while the plug-in hybrid 4xe powertrain has been expanded to both the Sport S and Rubicon X trims in addition to the Willys, Sahara, Rubicon, and High Altitude versions.
What’s Good?
- Few rivals can match the Wrangler's excellent off-road capabilities
- Its Uconnect infotainment system and 12.3-inch touchscreen give it a fresh, new, user-friendly look and feel
- Even before turning to its strong aftermarket support, Jeep gives Wrangler customers plenty of options and extras
What’s Bad?
- You pay quite the price for the name and the capability
- The Wrangler’s on-road manners are less than ideal
- Few standard safety features give others, including the Ford Bronco, a leg up on the Wrangler
Would we buy one? Absolutely! The Wrangler’s capability and design are legendary, and the 4xe model that we drove proves that a hybrid powertrain will not slow down the original American off-roader.
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Overview:
Even with its mid-cycle refresh for the 2024 model year, there's little about the Jeep Wrangler that hasn't already been said. Its new infotainment system keeps it fresh in a world of smoother-riding crossover SUVs and other technology-packed vehicles, but it remains a unique choice in the automotive marketplace and one that buyers continue to cherish.
Its only true competition comes in the form of the Ford Bronco and the Toyota 4Runner. Like the Wrangler, both are traditional body-on-frame SUVs with legendary off-road capabilities, though the 4Runner does not come standard with four-wheel drive, a two-door option, or a removable roof. The Land Rover Defender could be considered a rival, but it tends to draw a slightly different clientele than the Wrangler crowd.
Other similarly sized crossovers such as the Toyota RAV4, the Subaru Forester, the Mazda CX-50, and the Ford Bronco Sport can all be equipped with off-road focused features and options, but none come close to the Wrangler’s ability to tackle truly difficult terrain. However, they do offer buyers a more refined ride, less road noise, and better fuel economy than the Wrangler.
Despite its lack of on-road manners, its truck-like ride, and its comparatively low fuel economy, the Wrangler is not designed to be any different than it is. It remains America’s favorite off-roader, can still do so many things that the other guys can't, and this year’s updates quite possibly make it the best Jeep Wrangler yet.
Overall Score: 3.25/5 stars
Driving Experience: 3/5 stars
The Jeep Wrangler does what it was designed to do well: tackle the trails and rocks that exist when the pavement ends. Unfortunately, the Wrangler’s rugged nature does not translate to the road perfectly. This makes sense, but even hardcore off-roaders will have to drive to at least a few places on regular roads.
Wind and road noise have been addressed with extra layers of noise cancellation on 2024 model year Wranglers, but most crossovers provide a much more refined driving experience. The Jeep's truck-based underpinnings and off-road purpose shine through in its rough ride.
On the flip side, each powertrain is peppy enough to get it up and running when it needs to – especially the Rubicon 392. The 4xe model that we tested also has more than enough grunt to provide surprisingly quick off-the-line acceleration. Stopping power is adequate without being exceptionally confidence-inspiring.
We cannot and do not fault the Wrangler for being excellent at what it was designed to do, but when compared to other small crossovers and SUVs, there is a clear difference in its road manners.
Safety Features: 1/5 stars
Neither the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration nor the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety had given the 2024 Jeep Wrangler a safety score at the time of writing. Wranglers from 2023 did not fare especially well with the IIHS crash test results, earning a marginal rating for the driver’s side small overlap and side crash tests and a poor moderate front overlap crash test. This seems unlikely to change much with a mid-cycle refresh.
In addition to its historically poor crash tests and marginal rollover resistance, the Wrangler has few safety features as standard. A backup camera and rollbar are fitted to the most basic models.
Safety features such as automatic emergency braking, automatic high beams, parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control are available for extra cash, but even the most basic vehicles offer features such as these as options, and many have at least a few of them as standard. Even the Ford Bronco comes with such as automatic high beams and automatic emergency braking.
Value: 4.5/5 stars
There is no getting past the Wrangler’s price tag. It costs more than most similarly-sized crossovers, comes with the fewest safety features in the class, cannot match most similarly sized crossovers in the fuel economy department, and it does not offer much in the way of the best technology features. Its value comes from customers who cannot get enough of it.
The Wrangler has one of the highest resale values in the entire automotive industry, retaining more than 60% of its value over a five-year ownership period in 2023. We do not expect that to change in 2024. A large part of its allure is its ability to do anything and go anywhere, an ability that is only present in a handful of other models across any segment of the market.
The Wrangler certainly has many shortcomings, but as vehicles become increasingly technologically advanced, it remains one of the most desirable new cars on the market today. Its old-school feel coupled with the modern touches that come with its excellent infotainment system and optional plug-in hybrid powertrain provide just enough allure to keep customers coming back and wanting more.
The Rubicon 392, in particular, poses an interesting value proposition. Its mind-boggling specs, off-road readiness, and V8 grunt are all hot commodities in a market that demands high-performance off-roaders. Ford’s Raptor models have proven to be a hit, and the Wrangler Rubicon 392 should be no different. Its price tag is high, but its strong resale value and continued fan support keep every Jeep Wrangler high atop our value rankings.
Tech Features: 3.5/5 stars
Much like many other categories, the Wrangler does well, not because it outclasses other models with its technology, but because it offers a different kind of technology. To compete with more conventional crossovers, the Wrangler features a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with a user-friendly infotainment system. Additionally, it has wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, a 3.5-inch information display, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and push-button start.
Features such as a seven-inch digital gauge cluster, a 12-speaker Alpine audio system, heated front seats, LED headlights, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror are available.
The extra tech features that help it stand out from the crowd include an off-road camera, a power-operated soft top roof, electronic sway bar disconnect, and even a Warn winch. Naturally, they don't cater to every buyer, nor will they be used in everyday situations, but they are excellent options for those who buy the Wrangler to use its full 'go-anywhere' potential.
Practicality: 4/5 stars
Boxy designs are stylish again, and the Wrangler has retained its same, boxy and practical shape for years. Four-door models offer up to 35.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and more than 38 inches of legroom for rear-seat passengers thanks to their 21.6-inch wheelbase advantage over two-door versions. Two-door models are therefore less practical for both cargo and rear-seat passengers, with 22.4 cubic feet of cargo space and 35.7 inches of rear legroom.
Both the two-door and the four-door Wrangler models match the Ford Bronco’s cargo dimensions but are eclipsed by the Toyota 4Runner’s 47.2 cubic feet of space. Still, the four-door Wrangler beats other small crossovers such as the Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-50, and Ford Bronco Sport with its higher capacity cargo hold.
The Wrangler’s maximum 3,500-pound towing capacity matches most other compact SUVs and crossovers, but its optional towing package makes it all the more useful. Of course, the Wrangler’s poor weather capability adds to its practicality score, but tradeoffs such as low fuel economy, a harsher ride, and low maneuverability count against it.
Styling & Design: 5/5 stars
The Jeep Wrangler was never designed to be a beautiful work of art. Rather, the Wrangler has proven to have a timeless design that, despite some modern touches, has remained largely unchanged from its inception. Its classic, boxy shape is perhaps the most iconic and recognizable on the market, and it is one reason the Wrangler is still so beloved by its fanbase.
Inside, the Wrangler stays true to its functional design. Interior materials are used with the knowledge that things will likely get dirty, yet everything is also laid out in an easy-to-use and accessible fashion. For those who do want nicer touches, features such as Nappa leather and the new 12.3-inch touchscreen make the Wrangler more than capable of tackling the urban world.
Adding to its fun factor, the Wrangler offers both soft top and hardtop roof designs. A number of factory options and aftermarket accessories is also available for further customization. It is hard to imagine the Jeep Wrangler looking and feeling any other way, and as its design is integral to its character, so it earns a perfect score.
Fuel Efficiency: 1.5/5 stars
When compared to its two largest competitors – the Ford Bronco and Toyota 4Runner – the Wrangler provides acceptable fuel economy. The 4Runner’s best combined fuel economy rating of 17 MPG is one of the lowest when taking most normal small and midsize SUVs into account. The Ford Bronco keeps up with the Wrangler, but the Wrangler has a slight edge across the board.
Wrangler models with standard V6 and automatic transmissions earn EPA fuel economy estimates of 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The four-cylinder engine does better with a 20 MPG rating across the board as a four-door, and a slightly higher 21 MPG highway rating for two-door models. Wranglers with the six-speed transmission and heavier trim levels such as the Rubicon fall below the 20 MPG combined mark.
As expected, the 6.4-liter V8 engine option is the least efficient of the group, earning EPA fuel economy estimates of 13 MPG in the city and 16 MPG on the highway. Our Jeep Wrangler 4xe model is rated at 20 combined MPG and 49 combined MPGe. It is capable of driving up to 22 miles on all-electric power.
Each of the Wrangler’s fuel economy estimates is low compared to the majority of the compact crossover field. This is especially true when comparing the plug-in hybrid 4xe with other PHEVs in the class. Additionally, with the 4Runner being slated for a major redesign in the next model year, the Wrangler may fall even farther down the totem pole.
What’s it Going to Cost Me?
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler is offered in eight different trim levels with various powertrains available across the lineup. Each Wrangler, regardless of trim level, comes with four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer case, a solid front axle, a solid rear axle, fog lights, the Uconnect 5 infotainment system that runs through a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, push-button start, and LED interior lighting.
The base model Jeep Wrangler Sport has a starting MSRP of $33,890. This model comes standard in a two-door configuration with a 285-horsepower 3.6-liter V6 engine, a six-speed manual transmission, a soft top roof, 17-inch black steel wheels, cloth upholstery, 9.7 inches of ground clearance, a transfer case skid plate, a transmission skid plate, and front and rear tow hooks.
The eight-speed automatic transmission costs an extra $4,500, and a four-door body will add another $4,600. Choosing the 270-horsepower four-cylinder over the standard V6 is a no-cost option, but will mandate the eight-speed automatic transmission.
A Trailer Tow and Auxiliary Switch Group package adds a 240-Amp alternator, a seven and four-pin wiring harness, additional auxiliary switches, and a receiver hitch for $1,195. A Dual Door Group package adds half doors, power-heated mirrors, power front windows, speed-sensitive power locks, and remote keyless entry for $2,695 or $3,550, depending on whether you get the premium package or not.
Several other options are available with this trim level, including a $195 doors-off-mirror kit, a $325 black satin grille, $675 rear hinge gate reinforcement, a $1,695 black hardtop roof, $595 tinted windows, a $525 Mopar cold air intake, a $775 RV tow harness, two different side step options, $875 heavy-duty Mopar rock sliders, and multiple body graphics.
White paint is standard, while most other colors such as High Velocity, Firecracker Red, and Hydro Blue Pearl cost an additional $595. The exception to this is Bikini Pearl, which costs an extra $895.
The next trim level in the lineup is the Jeep Wrangler Sport S. Two-door models start at $37,490 with the destination fee added. The same standard V6 and optional four-cylinder engines with their respective transmission remain available on this trim level. Four-door models cost $5,095 more than two-door models.
Standard features added to the Sport S include 17-inch alloy wheels, tinted sunscreen windows, heated side mirrors, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning. Most of the same standalone options from the Sport trim remain optional on the Sport S trim, and several more become available.
All-terrain tires can be equipped for $495. Four-door models can be equipped with a $945 Sunrider hardtop, a $3,995 power-operated soft top which also adds a rear window defroster, a rear windshield wiper, and removable rear quarter windows, or a three-piece hard top with the Sunrider soft top for $2,495.
In addition to the Trailer Tow and Auxiliary switch group, buyers can opt for several more package options. The Technology package costs $1,295 and includes a 12-speaker Alpine audio system and 240-amp alternator. An LED lighting package adds LED foglights and headlights for $1,495. A Safety package adds automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, a rear-park assist system, and LED taillights.
The most comprehensive offering is the $1,995 Convenience package. It adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, remote start, a seven-inch digital gauge cluster, and automatic climate control.
Finally, the Sport S trim is the lowest trim level available with the 375-horsepower 4xe plug-in hybrid powertrain. It requires at least $52,590 and only comes in four-door guise. Most of the standard features, standalone extras, and package options, from the regular Sport S carry over to the 4xe model with a few exceptions.
Sport S 4xe models come with 20-inch wheels, a seven-inch gauge cluster, keyless entry, and automatic climate control.
Next in the lineup is the Jeep Wrangler Willys. Two-door models start at $41,390 while four-door models require $4,500 more. Both the standard V6 and optional four-cylinder engines with their transmission choices carry over to non-4xe models.
Most of the equipment from the Sport S trim is standard on Willys models, with the addition of the LED head and fog lights from the LED Lighting package and the optional towing package accessories from the previous trims. Also standard are off-road tires, a locking rear differential, and unique Willys decals and graphics.
The Convenience, Safety, and Technology packages from the lower trim levels remain available on both two and four-door models, but four-doors have the added benefit of the available $4,495 XTREME 35-inch tire package. It includes 17-inch machined wheels, 35-inch tire suspension, performance ABS, an upgraded rear bumper, a 4.56 rear axle ratio, a tire relocation kit, and wheel flare extensions.
Willys 4xe models start at $57,330. They feature the upgraded PHEV powertrain, the four-door configuration, and most of the same equipment from the non-PHEV Willys four-door model.
Two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon starts at $48,690 with the destination fee added. Four-door versions demand $4,500 more than that. The Rubicon shares many of its features with the Willys model, but adds even more off-road goodies.
A front locking differential compliments the rear locking differential. Electronic sway bar disconnect, off-road tires, heavy-duty ABS, advanced brake assist, and an upgraded four-wheel drive system and transfer case are all included.
In addition to the still available Convenience and Safety packages, the more comprehensive $2,295 Technology package adds extras such as navigation, an off-road camera, an automatic dimming rearview mirror, and Jeep Connect. The XTREME 35-inch tire package is still available on four-door models.
Both two and four-door models can benefit from the $3,495 Steel Bumper and Winch package which includes steel front and rear bumpers and a Warn winch.
4xe Rubicon models come exclusively in a four-door configuration with the same equipment as the regular Rubicon. You can expect to pay at least $63,290 for a Rubicon 4xe.
Jeep Wrangler Sahara models start at $51,090 and come exclusively in a four-door configuration. Unlike other Wranglers, the four-cylinder turbo serves as the standard engine. The V6 is still available, but a manual transmission is not available.
Heated front seats, 18-inch wheels, a heated steering wheel, a seven-inch digital gauge cluster, and leather upholstery are added to the standard features from the Sport S trim to round out the Sahara’s package.
All-terrain tires are once again a $495 option, alongside the Safety, Technology, and Trailer Tow and Auxiliary Switch packages from previous trim levels.
Sahara 4xe models start at $59,590. They include the equipment from the regular Sahara, but come with the added option of the Steel Bumper and Winch package that the regular Sahara models lack.
Jeep Wrangler High Altitude models come exclusively with the plug-in hybrid 4xe powertrain and start at $69,690. The Sahara’s trim features carry over and are added to 20-inch machined wheels, all-terrain tires, Nappa Leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, an Alpine premium sound system, and the features from the Safety package.
The two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon X models start at $58,690. Four-door models cost an extra $4,500. This trim combines the off-road features of the Rubicon with the interior accessories of the Sahara and High Altitude trims, including Nappa leather upholstery and power-adjustable front seats.
The 285-horsepower V6 engine and six-speed manual transmission return to the lineup as the standard powertrain. The four-cylinder engine is once again available as a substitute. Upgrading to the 4xe model will cost at least $72,290 and is available exclusively with four doors. Its features follow those of the standard Rubicon X model.
Because most of the equipment featured in previous packages is included on this trim level, there are no package options available. Several standalone options such as a Warn winch, a Sunrider retractable top, and hinge gate reinforcement are still on the table.
The most expensive Wrangler is the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392. It starts at $93,440, features a 470-horsepower 6.4-liter V8 engine, and comes exclusively in a four-door layout. It features the Rubicon’s off-road equipment, the High Altitudes’s equipment, and adds red and black Nappa leather upholstery, full-time four-wheel drive, and a 12-speaker Alpine audio system.
Our Jeep Wrangler mode of choice would be the two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with the V6 engine and six-speed manual transmission. We would add the Steel Bumper and Safety packages, but one of the most off-road focused Wranglers is enough for us without all the extra amenities that pricier models bring.
