Replies

The thing is, there is also a segment of reviews which (consistently) ranks Jeep in the top-10, based on actual owners.

They are what they are. You either like them, or you like Toyotas or one of the others.

Wrangler is Wrangler. No other vehicle like it, anywhere.

I say they are good. Others like Toyotas, or a competitor.

Regarding your original question though. You can get the cheapest model, and then change the wheels, to something bigger, if you are so inclined.

That will entail replacing the tires and the wheels, I believe.

Probably much cheaper to get a basic model, then upgrade that way.

This is part of the reason you see so many different versions of Jeeps. People are always tweaking them.

I own a 2011 Wrangler Unlimited (4 door) Sport. I went with Jeep instead of a Harley for my "retirement present" when I left the military. I looked at Toyota FJ. We have a 2009 Yaris which has been a very dependable car, but I decided against the FJ for a couple of reasons: no capability to remove the top, and it was priced a bit higher than baseline Wranglers at that time; and the Wrangler Unlimited gave me a bit more cargo space behind the rear seat, and seemed a bit more roomy than the FJ (I still have kids at home).

I wanted the 4x4 capability with the option to drop the top (remove the doors, etc) and enjoy an open ride like a bike, without having the weather limiting aspects of a bike. I also advise going with the hard top. I got both hard and soft tops and have sold my soft top. The hard top just gives a little more peace of mind security-wise. However, I highly recommend taking off the top and doors whenever you can. There are fairly cheap bikini tops that are easy to install during summer months.

Maintenance-wise the only issue I have had is the rear wheel hubs. One developed a leak while under warranty (repaired at no cost), and I just replaced the other a few weeks ago. Neither was a hazard or an immediate danger for damage, but I did expect a little more durability considering that I don't off-road often. Other than that, I have been pleased with my purchase.

Hindsight being 20/20, I'd buy the base model (with the 16" wheels) and not worry about frills. Jeeps are easily and readily customizable. You'll probably save money on the base model that you spend on upgrades and customizing.

I hope this was helpful.

Good luck (and it is pretty cool waving at other Wrangler/CJ owners).