Can Daily-Driving a Wrangler Work for You? (+4 Other Jeeps)
The Jeep Wrangler is a superb off-roader and an average daily driver, but only if you can forgive its relatively poor steering feel and ride comfort.
The Gladiators and Cherokees aren’t as comfortable on the road as their rivals either, but they have distinctive appeals.
Read on to find out.
Jeep Wrangler’s Negatives as a Daily Driver
#1 Unpleasant Ride Quality
The Wrangler’s off-road prowess is undeniable, but its on-road handling and ride comfort take a back seat.
Any Wrangler is stiff-riding, where bumps, ruts, and broken pavement transmit readily to the occupants – it feels slightly jittery even on mostly smooth pavement.
Further, the solid axle suspension causes the car to twitch when cornering over potholes.
It turns well with its tight turning radius. Still, the steering can feel loose when driving straight, and crosswinds tend to unsettle the car at highway speeds.
The Wrangler’s traditional boxy body makes it instantly recognizable, although it has its downside.
While the latest generation Wrangler is the most comfortable and quietest, wind and tire noise are constant companions that become pronounced at higher speeds.
#2 Limited Cargo Capacity
Wranglers have a narrower body and shorter wheelbase than mainstream SUVs, and it shows in the reduced interior room for occupants and cargo.
The narrow body adds to its off-road strength, but shoulder and legroom suffer.
Although the ultimate cargo capacity is less than the competition, thankfully, it makes up for it with a tall and squared-off space that is entirely usable.
The rear seats fold into the floor to provide additional storage and utility.
The 4-door Ultimate version comes with considerable cargo room, more than double the amount in the 2-door model.
#3 Expensive Maintenance
The Jeep Wrangler is one of the more expensive midsize SUVs to maintain.
It costs $694 per year to maintain, according to RepairPal.
Plus,
Let’s see how its year-to-year costs compared to segment rivals:
| Year | Annual Costs (4Runner) | Annual Costs (Passport) | Annual Costs (Jeep Wrangler) |
| 1 | $230 | $267 | $357 |
| 2 | $261 | $308 | $418 |
| 3 | $311 | $373 | $514 |
| 4 | $391 | $477 | $669 |
| 5 | $457 | $564 | $797 |
| 6 | $561 | $700 | $998 |
| 7 | $772 | $977 | $1,407 |
| 8 | $856 | $1,087 | $1,570 |
| 9 | $935 | $1,189 | $1,721 |
| 10 | $1,051 | $1,341 | $1,946 |
| 11 | $1,065 | $1,360 | $1,974 |
| 12 | $1,190 | $1,523 | $2,215 |
Further, Wranglers aren’t reliable vehicles; JD Power scored them below 80 out of 100 in years when ratings are available.
Jeep Wrangler’s Positives as a Daily Driver
#4 Good Visibility
Seeing out of the Wrangler is straightforward.
Its boxy form, square windows, and slender roof pillars aid outward views in all directions.
The elevated seat makes it easy to see over the tall and flat hood, although shorter drivers may face some difficulty.
#5 Rugged Off-Road Character
Even though most Wrangler owners rarely venture off-road, the Wrangler is capable of traversing trails and climbing rocky hills.
All Wrangler trims have ample ground clearance for the beaten path.
But still, most have road-oriented tires and lack a locking differential, which limit their capability.
Serious off-roaders will want the fortified Rubicon for its lockable axles, protective underbody skid plates, heavy-duty suspension, and all-terrain tires.
#6 Excellent Resale Value
Iconic vehicles typically command higher-than-average resale values, and here, the Wrangler doesn’t disappoint.
Jeep Wranglers depreciate an average of 35% after the initial five years and a mere 52% after ten years – a commendable performance compared to the reliable 4Runner and Passport.
See the comparison with other SUVs below:
| 5-yr Depreciation | 10-yr Depreciation | |
| Jeep Wrangler | 35% | 52% |
| Toyota 4Runner | 39% | 61% |
| Honda Passport | 41% | 68% |
| Jeep Grand Cherokee | 51% | 75% |
| Ford Bronco | 52% | 75% |
Best Jeep Wrangler for Daily Driving: Trims Compared
Table Guide:
- Engine: T=turbo; Hyb=hybrid; +drivetrain.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined.
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Notable Features: capability-differentiating aspects.
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Tow Max | Notable Features | |
| Base/ S/SE/X | 3.8L-V6-4WD (2007-2009) 2.4L-i4-4WD (2003-2006) 2.5L-i4-4WD (1997-2002) 4.0L-i6-4WD (1994-1995) 2.5L-i4-4WD (up to 1995) | 202-205-hp (2007-2009) 147-hp (2003-2006) 120-hp (1997-2002) 180-hp (1994-1995) 117-126-hp (up to 1995) | 16-mpg (2007-2009) 17-mpg (2003-2006) 17-18-mpg (1997-2002) 15-mpg (1994-1995) 17-mpg (up to 1995) | Regular | 2,000-lbs. | – |
| Base/ Sport | 3.6L-V6-4WD (2018-present) 3.6L-V6-4WD (2012-2017) 3.8L-V6-4WD (2010-2011) 4.0L-i6-4WD (2003-2006) 4.0L-i6-4WD (1997-2002) 4.0L-i6-4WD (1994) | 285-hp (2018-present) 285-hp (2012-2017) 202-205-hp (2010-2011) 190-hp (2003-2006) 181-190-hp (1997-2002) 180-hp (1994) | 20-mpg (2018-present) 18-mpg (2012-2017) 16-17-mpg (2010-2011) 15-16-mpg (2003-2006) 15-16-mpg (1997-2002) 15-mpg (1994) | Regular | 2,000-lbs | – |
| Sahara | 3.6L-V6-4WD (2012-2017) 3.8L-V6-4WD (2007-2011) 4.0L-i6-4WD (2003-2004) 4.0L-i6-4WD (1997-2002) 4.0L-i6-4WD (1992-1995) 2.5L-i4-4WD (up to 1991) | 285-hp (2012-2017) 202-205-hp (2007-2011) 190-hp (2003-2004) 181-190-hp (1997-2002) 180-hp (1992-1995) 117-126-hp (up to 1991) | 18-mpg (2012-2017) 16-17-mpg (2007-2011) 16-mpg (2003-2004) 15-16-mpg (1997-2002) 15-17-mpg (1992-1995) 17-mpg (up to 1991) | Regular | 2,000-lbs | Full-time 4WD. Upgraded driver info display. AC. Power windows and door locks. Auto climate control. Remote keyless entry. |
| Rubicon | 3.6L-V6-4WD (2018-present) 3.6L-V6-4WD (2012-2017) 3.8L-V6-4WD (2007-2011) 4.0L-i6-4WD (2003-2006) | 285-hp (2018-present) 285-hp (2012-2017) 202-205-hp (2007-2011) 190-hp (2003-2006) | 20-mpg (2018-present) 18-mpg (2012-2017) 16-17-mpg (2007-2011) 15-16-mpg (2003-2006) | Regular | 2,000-lbs | All-terrain tires. Heavy-duty front and rear axles w/ shorter gear ratio. Electronic locking front and rear differentials. Electronic disconnecting front stabilizer bar. Rock rails. |
| Unlimited (4dr) | 6.4L-V8-4WD (2021-present) 2.0L-i4-T–Hyb–4WD (2020-present) 3.6L-V6-4WD (2018-present) 3.6L-V6-4WD (2012-2017) 3.8L-V6-4WD (2007-2011) 4.0L-i6-4WD (2004-2006) | 470-hp (2021-present) 270-hp (2020-present) 285-hp (2018-present) 285-hp (2012-2017) 202-205-hp (2007-2011) 190-hp (2004-2006) | 14-mpg (2021-present) 21-22-mpg (2020-present) 19-mpg (2018-present) 18-mpg (2012-2017) 16-17-mpg (2007-2011) 15-16-mpg (2004-2006) | Prem-ReQ (2021-present) Prem-ReC (2020-present) Regular (2018-present) Regular (2012-2017) Regular (2007-2011) Regular (2004-2006) | 3,500-lbs | Longer wheelbase for more interior space. 4-door layout. |
Suppose you don’t expect to ferry many passengers, in which that case, the two-door Sport S is the best Jeep Wrangler for daily driving with the addition of air conditioning and other comfort features over the base model at a marginally higher price.
Additionally, opt for the hardtop for a quieter interior.
But if your daily driver doubles as a family car, the four-door Unlimited Sport S is the better choice for everyday use.
You can opt for the Unlimited Sahara sub-trim for additional convenience, but it offers less value at $5k more than the 4dr Sport S.
Is the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon a Good Daily Driver?
As the most off-road capable of the Wranglers, the Rubicon has:
- All-terrain tires.
- Heavy-duty axles.
- Low-range gearing for extra traction.
- Electronic locking differentials for higher traction.
- Rock rails to protect bodywork when off-roading.
The Wrangler Rubicon’s enhanced off-road abilities render it less suitable as an everyday car with even poorer on-road handling.
Is the 4dr Jeep Wrangler Unlimited a Good Daily Driver?
With a 20-plus-inch longer wheelbase, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited makes a more versatile daily driver with added seat and interior space; plus, its four-door layout will be more straightforward for rear passengers to climb in and out.
2-Door vs. 4-Door Jeep Wrangler as a Daily Driver
The differences between the Sport, Sahara, and Rubicon primary trim levels are a greater differentiator in everyday steering and handling, while the number of doors is a matter of need.
If you need more cargo and seating capacity, the four-door Jeep Wrangler is better for daily use than the two-door model.
Both versions have an optional hardtop that can significantly drown out the wind and road noise.
Jeep Wrangler Generations
Here’s a summary of the Jeep Wrangler generations:
- 1st generation: YJ (1987 to 1996)
- 2nd generation: TJ (1997 to 2006)
- 3rd generation: JK (2007 to 2017)
- 4th generation: JL (2018 to present)
Daily Driving the Jeep Wrangler CJ Series
The CJ Series underwent several iterations, ending with the CJ10, produced from 1981 to 1985.
Its classic look will suit enthusiasts looking for a cool weekend ride, but the Jeep CJ is a poor daily driver with high fuel consumption, low ride comfort, and a lack of safety features.
Unless you can find one in reasonable condition still, it’s best to look for a newer Wrangler model or elsewhere to meet your daily driving needs.
Daily Driving a Jeep Wrangler YJ
The YJ generation of Wranglers adopted anti-roll bars and improved suspension for a safer and more composed machine, making it a better choice for daily use than the earlier models.
Still, the bumpy ride and terrible gas mileage are a concern.
Daily Driving a Jeep Wrangler TJ
Jeep revamped the iconic Wrangler with an upgraded suspension, strengthened body, and the return of the classic round headlights.
The coil-spring suspension enhanced on-road manners, and the addition of driver and passenger airbags improved safety, turning the Jeep Wrangler TJ into a reasonable daily driver.
This generation also saw the introduction of the heavy-duty Rubicon trim to the Wrangler lineup.
Daily Driving a Jeep Wrangler JK
Although larger and more refined, the JK is still as mediocre an everyday car as most other generations, the ride and handling suffering from the Wrangler’s traditional off-road orientation.
Daily Driving a Jeep Wrangler JL
The JL is the most capable daily driver of all Wranglers with improved overall competence and an extensive feature list and customization options that suit a broader user base.
That said, the relatively poor ride comfort and handling remain.
But as long as you avoid the extra-rugged Rubicon, the Wrangler TJ should serve your daily commuting needs with loads of fun.
Other Jeep Models:
Is the Jeep Gladiator a Good Daily Driver?
The Gladiator offers Jeep loyalists a truck version of the venerable Wrangler – it is the only convertible truck you can buy.
Sharing many of the Wrangler’s drawbacks, the Jeep Gladiator is just as mediocre with fuel consumption, handles poorly, and is uncomfortable for daily driving.
That said, the spacious backseat and cargo bed are advantages for drivers needing a pickup for a daily vehicle.
Is the Jeep Cherokee a Good Daily Driver?
As far as Jeep vehicles go, the Cherokee is one of the smoothest-riding if you’re after a compact SUV.
Daily driving a Jeep Cherokee is a good choice with its nicely weighted steering and a reasonably smooth ride over rough surfaces, yet it offers an above-average off-roading ability.
Still, its fuel economy is below what competitors can return, although you can opt for the more efficient and powerful turbo engine.
Is the Jeep Grand Cherokee a Good Daily Driver?
Now in its fifth generation, the 2022-redesigned Grand Cherokee is a five-seater midsize SUV.
The Grand Cherokee is ideal for SUV shoppers looking for a comfortable and spacious daily driver with higher off-road capability than the competition.
The optional air suspension further improves the Grand Cherokee’s ride quality, providing a cushy ride without feeling floaty.
Plus, the advanced driving aids make driving the midsize SUV easier and safer.
Are Jeep Wagoneer & Grand Wagoneer Good Daily Drivers?
Both are large three-row SUVs with beefy V8 power plants.
The Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are average daily drivers as they handle sluggishly around turns and move with less composure than class rivals.
At sub-20-mpg combined fuel economy, the Wagoneers (including the hybrid Wagoneer) aren’t efficient everyday vehicles, although that probably won’t concern buyers of such behemoths.
That said, they excel at carrying a full load of passengers and a trailer in tow (around 10,000 lbs towing capacity).
Jeep Wrangler Comparison with Similar Vehicles
Jeep Wrangler vs. Ford Bronco as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; T=turbo; +drivetrain.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Fuel Type: Prem=premium; ReQ=required; ReC=recommended.
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor (base trim).
Although both have comparable fuel consumption, the Ford Bronco is more comfortable on the road than an equivalent Jeep Wrangler and cheaper to upkeep; overall, the better choice for daily use.
It also has a higher towing capacity for broader utility.
Jeep Wrangler vs. Toyota 4Runner as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; +drivetrain.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor (base trim).
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | Tow Max | |
| Jeep Wrangler | 3.6L-V6-4WD | 285-hp | 20-mpg | Regular | $694 | Good | Average | 2,000-lbs |
| Toyota 4Runner | 4.0L-V6-4WD | 270-hp | 19-mpg | Regular | $514 | Good | Average | 5,000-lbs |
Jeep Wranglers and Toyota 4Runners are below-average daily drivers with a choppy ride and pronounced wind noise that makes the cabin unpleasant at higher speeds.
The Toyota 4Runner is larger with more interior space and higher towing capacity and thus has wider utility than the Wrangler as an everyday vehicle.
Opt for the smaller Wrangler if you don’t need the space that a 4Runner offers and want a nimbler daily driver.
Jeep Wrangler vs. Toyota Tacoma as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; +drivetrain.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor (base trim).
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | Tow Max | |
| Jeep Wrangler | 3.6L-V6-4WD | 285-hp | 20-mpg | Regular | $694 | Good | Average | 2,000-lbs |
| Toyota Tacoma | 3.5L-V6-4WD | 278-hp | 20-mpg | Regular | $478 | Average | Poor | 6,500-lbs |
The Wrangler is an SUV and the Tacoma a truck, so this isn’t an apples-to-apples comparison.
As far as daily driving goes, the Wrangler is better than the Tacoma, albeit marginally, in the visibility and ride comfort aspects.
Opt for the Toyota Tacoma if you need your daily driver to double as a workhorse.
Jeep Wrangler vs. Jeep Gladiator as a Daily Driver
Table Guide:
- Engine: base trim; +drivetrain.
- Fuel Economy: mpg combined (base trim).
- Maintenance Costs: per year avg. (RepairPal).
- Visibility: excellent, good, average, poor.
- Ride Comfort: excellent, good, average, poor (base trim).
| Engine | Horsepower | Fuel Econ. | Fuel Type | Maint. Costs | Visibility | Ride Comfort | Tow Max | |
| Jeep Wrangler | 3.6L-V6-4WD | 285-hp | 20-mpg | Regular | $694 | Good | Average | 2,000-lbs |
| Jeep Gladiator | 3.6L-V6-4WD | 285-hp | 19-mpg | Regular | NA | Good | Average | 4,000-lbs |
The Wrangler is an SUV while the Gladiator is a pickup truck – and a convertible one – but both share similarities.
The Gladiator is the marginally better everyday car than the Wrangler as it is easier to drive and has a roomier backseat and a truck bed while maintaining plenty of ground clearance for off-roading.
Wrangler 2-Door vs. Wrangler 4-Door as a Daily Driver
Let’s see the differences between the two-door and four-door Jeep Wrangler in daily-driver aspects:
| DIFFERENCE IN: | 2-Door Wrangler | 4-Door Wrangler |
| Engine spec and power | Nil. | Nil. |
| Fuel Economy (combined) | 20-mpg | 19-mpg |
| Wheelbase | 96.8 inches | 118.4 inches |
| Total seating | 4 | 5 |
| Cargo capacity (seats in place) | 12.9 cubic ft. | 31.7 cubic ft. |
| Turning circle | 34.5 ft. | 39.4 ft. |
| Towing capacity | 2,000-lbs | 3,500-lbs |
Ride quality is subpar in both models, unfortunately.
However, the four-door Jeep Wrangler is better than the two-door version for daily driving if you need a higher seating capacity and storage room.
But if you aren’t expecting to carry many passengers, the shorter-wheelbase two-door Wrangler is more nimble around town.
References:
https://www.jeep.com/wrangler.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeep_Wrangler
https://repairpal.com/reliability/jeep/wrangler
https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/bymodel/2022_Jeep_Wrangler.shtml
