The 2018 Jeep Wrangler skips over the on-road part of the driving test, and heads straight for the hills.
Pros The undisputed off-road champion Singular style Smooth and strong V-6 A few concessions to modernity inside
Cons Rough-and-tumble ride Poor on-road handling Expensive high-end editions Remarkably poor safety scores Soft tops are fussy to use
The Jeep Wrangler is completely redesigned for 2018. Note that this review covers the new Wrangler. The previous-generation model, the Wrangler JK, is covered separately.
PROS Unrelentingly capable off-road Maintains the rugged Jeep character Increased capability and comfort compared to old models Extensive customization options from the factory and aftermarket
CONS Mild towing capability for an otherwise highly capable rig Less cargo space than some conventional crossovers Standard V6 engine is a little underwhelming
Pros There are few vehicles more capable off-road than the Wrangler JK. Equipped with removable doors, a removable roof, and a fold-down windshield, the four-wheel-drive Wrangler JK is one of the most fun and proficient ways to explore off the beaten path or to feel the wind in your hair. It’s also hard not to fall for the Wrangler JK’s charming and simple design, which can trace its roots back to the Willys MB Jeep of World War II fame.
Cons The Wrangler JK’s off-road capability comes at the cost of its on-road manners. Live front and rear axles do the Wrangler JK’s ride quality no favors. The body also rolls precariously in turns, and the stability-control system regularly cuts in to prevent the droptop SUV from actually rolling over. Wind noise is exceptionally loud at highway speeds, and this Jeep drinks gas like it’s at an open bar. The available touchscreen infotainment system also is slow to respond to inputs and suffers from poor ergonomics.
Sure, crossovers make more sense as luxury vehicles. But that's not why you want a 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class in your garage.The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a soldier in a business suit.
Pros Classic authenticity That “clunk” the doors make when they close Wild off-road ability from the G550 4x4² Faster than it ever should be
Cons Or you could buy seven Jeep Wranglers, one for every weekday Light on safety tech G550 4x4² presents many urban challenges New 2019 just around the corner
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz G-Class ranked #8 in Luxury Large SUVs. Currently the Mercedes-Benz G-Class has a score of 7.4 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 80 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Excellent off-roader Powerful engines Premium cabin materials
Cons Abysmal fuel economy Subpar on-road handling Below-average cargo space Shorter features list than rivals High price
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class remains mostly unchanged for 2018. It will be fully redesigned for the 2019 model year. To commemorate the end of a very long production run, a few special-edition models be available and are limited to cosmetic touches inside and out.
PROS Iconic design is instantly recognizable Outstanding forward visibility Unusually quiet when on the road Lots of cosmetic customization potential
CONS Compromised off-road ability Poor interior packaging leaves little useful space Difficult to get into and out of Awful steering, handling, drivability and fuel economy
