Best American cars of all time - Jeep Wrangler
Need to go off-road? The Jeep Wrangler has you covered
The Jeep Wrangler is the US equivalent of the Land Rover Defender. Its looks might hark back to the Willys Jeep from World War II, but the latest iteration of the Wrangler is one of the most capable off-roaders in its class.
Whatever the terrain, the Wrangler’s four-wheel-drive will find grip, especially in top-spec Rubicon trim which features locking differentials in both axles. In addition to this, thanks to short overhangs, front and rear, steep slopes are no problem. You might expect the Wrangler to come with a honking V8 or V6 (at least), but the only engine available in the UK is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol. Don’t be put off by this though, because there’s more than enough grunt for when the going gets muddy.
But just like a Defender, the Wrangler’s off-road prowess comes at the expense of on-road manners – namely suffering from a slightly bouncy ride. That said, the latest Wrangler is easier than ever to live with, even if it trails big comfy SUVs like the Land Rover Discovery.
Interior space isn’t great, either, although the design is an attractive blend of retro and utilitarian. The Wrangler is offered in two or four-door body styles, with a hard top or optional soft top roof.
We don't rate the Wrangler as the best car to buy in its class (though for serious off-road use it might be worth a look), but the iconic styling that it shares with its WWII predecessor and the no-nonsense approach in its design mark it out as a great American car.
