Jeep’s 2018 Wranglers were turbocharged, redesigned, and came in many great trims. Let’s find out why buyers loved them and how to choose the best pre-owned Wrangler for you.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
The Jeep Wrangler has been around for over 30 years and has since been the weapon of choice for those seeking a capable off-roader. However, off-roading is not the only reason people buy the Wrangler. Other reasons include delivering mail, taking the top off to feel the wind through their hair, or using it as a utility vehicle.
The Wrangler is versatile enough to meet just about any need you can think of. Also, with diesel options, a plug-in hybrid version, and the mighty Rubicon 392 being offered on the newest edition, the Wrangler keeps adapting to suit the needs of consumers.
We will focus on the 2018 Jeep Wrangler and all of its options. However, because 2018 was a split year, we will need to talk about both the JL and JK Wrangler.
Let’s start with a quick look at the Wrangler’s fascinating history.
Jeep Wrangler: Where Did it All Start?
As you may know, the Wrangler’s roots stem from WWII. America needed a tough and reliable vehicle that could transport equipment for the war, so they reached out to the auto industry. The U.S. Army liked the Willys blueprint but needed a lot of vehicles. So, both Ford and Willys made vehicles using the Willys design. Willys called theirs the MB, and Ford called theirs the GPW.
Ford ended up changing the front grille from having 11 slots to nine because it was cheaper and faster to manufacture. This would be the start of Jeep’s famous grille, which would eventually have seven slots. That seven-slot grille is seen on roads everywhere today. Although many associate the Jeep name with the Wrangler, it’s actually the CJ that owns the honor of wearing the badge first.
The first vehicle to ever receive the Jeep name was the CJ, which stood for Civilian Jeep. It was replaced in 1987 by the first-ever Wrangler: the YJ.
Almost immediately after the introduction of the YJ in 1987, Chrysler bought out AMC, the parent company of Jeep at the time. The YJ had several stark differences between it and its ancestor, the CJ. However, Jeep owners believe the worst of the changes were the headlights. It had square headlights instead of round.
Jeep waited until 1997 to roll out the new TJ. Thankfully, Jeep enthusiasts could put down their pitchforks and return to the brand they loved, as the new Jeep had round headlights yet again.
JK Wrangler’s 2007 Debut
The first Jeep body style we will be talking about is the JK Wrangler. It took over for the TJ for the 2007 model year. The new Wrangler brought with it great news: It would now be offered in a four-door version given the nomenclature Unlimited.
Compared to the TJ, the JK was taller, wider, and had a longer wheelbase. Thankfully, Jeep added safety features to the new generation, such as stability control and traction control.
Also, this was the first Wrangler designed without any AMC parts to be found on it.
The JK was offered with an all-new 3.8L V6. Many found the new-generation Wrangler more comfortable than the last. However, it did not lose its off-roading ability.
Similar to previous Wranglers, the JK donned the fold-down windshield, removable doors, and a roll bar. However, to improve aerodynamics, the windshield glass was slightly curved. The JK weighed in over half of a ton more than the previous generation.
Further proving how versatile Jeep Wranglers are to customize, at the 2007 SEMA Show, the Mopar Underground design team presented its Jeep Wrangler “All-access” edition sporting a gorgeous Surf Blue exterior.
Pros from Owners
Pros are that it is Good and sturdy vehicle and also for off roading. Cons is the soft top which keeps the interior either really hot or really cold, depending on the temperature outside. Also the automatic turn off engine option should be automatic than with a push button.
It is comfortable to drive, high up off the road, handles really nicely driving on highway or local roads and looks good too. I also like that it has 4WD, and in the nice weather everything detaches (doors, t-top roof panels, rear roof panel and windshield folds down). It also has a good safety rating as well.
Almost no blind spots. Handles almost any terrain, including roads with potholes. Has plenty of Cargo space. Has seating for extra passengers. Is able to use regular gasoline. Is convertible in good weather. Can be easily taken apart and put back together. Has a great sound system.
It is fun and sporty. I live taking the top down. I feel more alive and it makes driving less painful. It is comfortable and has plenty of space for passengers and gear. Cons are it tips easily and does not get the best gas mileage.
The Jeep Wrangler 2018 Sport is spacious enough to have 5 passengers with a trunk space big enough for luggage, dogs, and equipment, the paint job is sleek, it is a 4x4 sport which comes in handy when off roading or going on snow/ice, the warranty is great and Jeep does an excellent job of keeping in contact with you about services and recalls, the leather seats are an added bonus that I enjoy because it is easy to clean and looks nice, I had a lower monthly payment than I expected for a car that I refer to as luxury. One of the greatest pros of the Jeep is that it looks great when stock, but of course adding modifications to the jeep is essentially just you getting to build your own car the way that you want it. The options are endless.
The pro of having this car is the details of the exterior grill and headlights. Big bumper with fog lights. I love the seats. I do not like the way the default interior panel of the middle compartment. I do like how fast it is.
Smooth. Good for local transport. Spacious. Overall it has good engine and never faced any technical issues with it so I recommend this model to all friends and family. And also it has the good average mileage compared to other brands.
Freedom of a convertible and ability to make it unique and your own. Has many upgrades and off road capabilities. Can adjust the inside and outside of vehicle. It also holds value well if taking care of in a fashionable time.
Cons from Owners
The soft top roof of the wrangler does not help me to keep the vehicle insulated well from the heat or cold temps. Definitely need remote start to help get the vehicle to a Decent temperature prior to getting into the vehicle.
The 4WD set up is terrible. I purchased the vehicle because it comes with 4WD, so I can be safe in inclement weather. But, the only way to engage the 4W is by having the vehicle in motion and then engaging the shift from 2W to 4W. It makes no sense, and should be set up to change from 2W to 4W while the vehicle is stopped.
It is large, so gas mileage is not as efficient as a smaller car. It has no CD player. Sometimes rides more roughly than other SUVs. The functions, such as cruise control, are automatically disabled if a sensor is malfunctioning. Replacement parts must be compatible with the computer system, which limits replacement options if repairs or replacement parts are needed.
Bad gas mileage and that is it. I love this car. It is my fourth Jeep Wrangler and my fifth Jeep brand car. I wouldn't trade it for any other car made. There are no cons to discuss. I love my car and have nothing bad to say about it.
The cons of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler is the gas mileage. I am lucky if I can make a full tank last me a work week. I knew this coming in. However, the pros outweigh the bad and I am fine with spending more money on gas.
I do not like the middle compartment where you play music. The front of it giving me an old car vibe. I do not like that you have to pull the strap to put your seat up and down even though it is not hard to do.
I do not see any so for now. For some reason it make hard for the long drive I mean if I go over 70 kmph it is kind of shaking. So it is better to use the jeep in local area instead of driving it in free ways.
Water leaks happen if not put back together correctly. Is pricey and can become unaffordable. The replacement parts and upgrades can be costly as well. Can be used as a daily driver but is also not eco friendly and is a gas hog.
Jeep Wrangler JK Trims
The JK Wrangler (pictured above) came in a host of trims and special editions. Notably, if you’re in the market for a Right Hand Drive (RHD) Jeep, the JK can provide whereas the JL cannot.
Also, the JK offers the Sahara as a two-door Wrangler, something the JL does not do either.
With a ton of special editions, we’re sure there’s a JK for every potential Wrangler owner. The Sport and Sport S are most known for being the cheap Wrangler that buyers purchase for the sole purpose of modifying. The Sahara is for those who do not care much about off-roading but more about creature comforts.
Finally, the Rubicon is revered for its off-roading superiority.
Sport: The base-level Sport trim was originally branded as the X trim. It comes with limited standard equipment such as:
- 16-inch steel wheels
- Command-trac 4×4 system
- Dana 44 heavy-duty rear axle and Dana 30 front axle
- Skid plates for fuel tank & transfer case
- Front and rear tow hooks
Sport RHD (Unlimited Only): The Sport right-hand-drive comes with everything included on the Sport as well as some extra conveniences for rural mail carriers:
- Power windows
- Power and heated mirrors
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Hard top
Sport S: The Sport S is a great choice for those who enjoy more creature comforts. It comes with everything included on the Sport in addition to:
- Air conditioning
- 17-inch aluminum wheels
- Side steps
- Leather wrapped interior
Sahara: The Sahara trim does not focus on off-road capability, rather interior comfort. This trim adds several creature comforts to the Sport S trim, such as:
- Heavy-duty suspension with gas shocks
- LED lighting
- Power locks, windows, and mirrors
- Heated mirrors
- Auto-dimming mirror
- 18-inch aluminum wheels
Rubicon: Aptly named after the Rubicon trail, the Rubicon trim adds several off-roading enhancements to the Sahara like:
- Rock-trac 4×4 system
- Tru-lok front and rear differentials
- Front sway bar disconnect system
- Dana 44 heavy-duty front and rear axles
- 17-inch aluminum wheels with 32-inch BF Goodrich mud tires
To learn more about the trim features of the 2018 JL Wrangler, check out the Extreme Terrain clip above, which explores each of its trims and defines exactly what makes each one unique.
JK Wrangler Powertrains
3.6L Pentastar V6
When the 3.6L replaced the old 3.8L, Jeep enthusiasts worldwide rejoiced. No longer was the Wrangler powered by an engine that was 20 years old. Nor did they have to worry about being overtaken by a sloth.
Not only did the 3.6L change everything for the Wrangler’s performance, but it was also from the 21st century. This new engine meant fewer trips to the gas pump as well.
- Five-speed automatic (combined/city/highway): 18/17/21
- Six-speed manual (combined/city/highway): 18/17/21
- Five-speed automatic (combined/city/highway): 18/16/20
- Six-speed manual (combined/city/highway): 18/16/21
Specs
- Horsepower: 285
- Torque (lb.-ft.): 260
Transmission Options: Yet again, the NSG370 would return as the standard transmission for the Wrangler. For the first time ever, the Wrangler could be fitted with a five-speed W5A580 automatic transmission. Both of these transmissions are very solid options and have no notable problems when it comes to reliability.
Is a Wrangler JK Spacious?
As anyone who has ever stepped into a Wrangler will tell you, they’re quite spacious. The JK’s dimensions are particularly impressive. Not only do they offer plenty of space on the inside but they also offer provide serious off-roading capabilities.
Exterior (Two-door/Four-door)
- Wheelbase Length: 95.4/116 inches
- Overall Length: 164.3/184.9 inches
- Overall Width (excluding mirrors): 73.7 inches
- Overall Height: 72.5/72.6 inches
Interior (Two-door/Four-door)
- Maximum Seating Capacity: Four/five occupants
- First-row Head Room: 41.3 inches
- Second-row Head Room: 40.3/40.4 inches
- First-row Legroom: 41 inches
- Second-row Legroom: 35.6/37.2 inches
Capacities/Weights (Two-door/Four-door)
- Fuel Tank: 18.6/22.5 gallons
- Highest Payload Capacity: 1,000 lbs
- Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs
- Towing Capacity (with optional max tow package): 3,500 lbs
JK Wrangler Special Editions
If the standard four trims don’t do it for you, Jeep has also made several special editions of the JK. Although they are based on one of the four original trims, they feature considerable upgraded equipment. They range from rugged off-roaders like the Rubicon Recon to comfortable on-roaders like the Altitude.
Rubicon Recon: The Rubicon Recon trim unsurprisingly includes everything on the Rubicon trim as well as:
- 17-inch granite crystal wheels
- Steel bumpers
- Premium off-road rock rails with tread plates
- Electronic Vehicle Information Center
Golden Eagle: In addition to all equipment found on the Sport, the Golden Eagle comes with:
- 17-inch bronze wheels
- Steel bumpers
- Premium off-road rock rails with tread plates
- Electronic Vehicle Information Center
Freedom Edition: The Freedom Edition offers everything seen on the Sport S as well as:
- 17-inch granite crystal wheels
- Steel bumpers
- Off-road rock rails
- Rear-differential cover
Willys Wheeler: The Willys Wheeler package adds off-roading capabilities to the Sport trim like:
- Tru-lock rear locker
- 17-inch Rubicon wheels with 32-inch BF Goodrich mud tires
- Off-road rock rails
- Electronic Vehicle Information Center
Willys Wheeler W: The Willys Wheeler W package includes everything on the regular Wheeler option plus air conditioning. It also makes the following standard for the four-door version and optional for the two-door variant:
- Power locks, windows, and mirrors
- Heated mirrors
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Altitude: The Altitude includes all of the Sahara content as well as:
- 18-inch black wheels
- Black accents
- Body-color hardtop
- Heated leather seats
2018 JK Wrangler’s Exterior Colors
The JK Wrangler comes in several great color choices. There are bright and flashy colors for those who like to stand out, including:
JK Wrangler’s Interior Colors
The JK keeps its interior color options pretty simple with three options:
- Black
- Olive Green
- Dark Saddle
Although there are few colors offered, there are even fewer upholstery options. Simply, you can get the JK with a cloth or leather interior, which depends on the trim, of course.
Sport & Sport S
- Black cloth (standard)
Sahara
- Black cloth with slate gray stitching (standard)
- Black cloth with dark saddle stitching (standard)
- Black leather with slate gray stitching (optional)
- Dark saddle leather with black stitching (optional)
- Olive green with cattle tan stitching (optional)
Rubicon
- Black cloth with slate gray stitching (standard)
- Black cloth with dark saddle stitching (standard)
- Black leather with slate gray stitching (optional)
- Dark saddle leather with black stitching (optional)
Tops Available for the JK Wrangler
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK comes with several different options for tops. Most Wranglers come standard with a soft top, but a hard top option is available.
Check out the video below from off-road outfitters Extreme Terrain, which features a comprehensive overview of three soft top options and why they are recommended by off-road expert Ryan Huck.
JK Wrangler Wheels
Although many replace them anyways, the stock Wrangler comes with some excellent rim options. The standard trims offer seven options, but there are even more when you consider the special editions, each coming with their own unique style.
Sport Wheels
- 16-inch slot-spoke styled steel painted argent (standard)
- 16-inch slot-spoke styled steel painted black (optional)
- 17-inch five-spoke aluminum painted Sparkle Silver (optional)
Sport S Wheels
- 17-inch five-spoke aluminum painted Sparkle Silver (standard)
Sahara Wheels
- 18-inch polished aluminum with granite crystal painted pockets (standard)
- 18-inch polished aluminum (optional)
Rubicon Wheels
- 17-inch polished aluminum mineral gray (standard)
JK Safety Ratings & Child Seat Details
Although the third-generation Wrangler was not as unsafe as the previous generations, it was certainly no safe-haven. Some may assume that because the Wrangler is a big vehicle, it is very safe. Unfortunately, this has been proven to not always be true.
When the IIHS conducted the side crash test, it received a score of “poor.” Also, it received a mark of “marginal” for both the head restraints and seats category as well as the small overlap front test on the driver’s side.
Not only was the JK Wrangler surprisingly unsafe, but it also struggled in the headlight category. This seems strange again because Wranglers are notorious for blinding other drivers, but as it turns out, they may not be able to see much with their headlights, because the IIHS gave them a “poor” score for all headlight offerings.
To make the Wrangler further unfit to haul children, the LATCH system is complicated. LATCH–an acronym for Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children–is another name for the child seat anchors found in vehicles.
The rear seats are where the anchors are found in the Wrangler. There are two lower anchors and one upper-tether anchor. On the four-door Wrangler, there are a total of four lower anchors and three tether anchors. This means if you want to use the middle system, you will have to borrow lower anchors from the outside seats.
The JK Wrangler received a “marginal” in this category from the IIHS because the anchors were hard to find and could be confused with other hardware. However, the Wrangler scored points because the anchors were easy to attach to and easy to maneuver around.
2018 JK Reviews: What Auto Critics Said Then
As is standard in the industry, when a manufacturer releases a new vehicle, they send it out to trusted automotive journalists to get their opinions. Think of this as a critic-screening for the automotive world. We take a look at these reviews and their highlights to figure out what the first impressions of the reviewers were when the vehicle released.
Greg Fink from Car and Driver liked the JK’s off-roading ability and simple design. He did not like the sloppy on-road performance, touchscreen infotainment system, or fuel economy of the JK.
“…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,” writes Fink. “It’s also hard not to fall for the Wrangler JK’s charming and simple design…
“The Wrangler JK’s off-road capability comes at the cost of its on-road manners,” adds the Car and Driver writer. “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 drop-top SUV from actually rolling over.
“Wind noise is exceptionally loud at highway speeds,” continues Fink, “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.”
Steven Ganz from The Car Connection talked about the lack of aerodynamics on the JK Wrangler and how it still looks similar to its military predecessor.
“Aerodynamic as a barn door, the Wrangler silhouette is shorthand for off-roading,” wrote Ganz. “It’s still recognizable as the same World War II-vintage shape, though it’s become faintly progressive with LED lighting and other minor details. The core still is intact, from the fold-down windshield to exterior hinges for the removable doors. The convertible SUV has a modern and useful interior by Jeep standards, but it lacks even the niceties you’d find in a new Jeep Compass.”
Our friends over at Edmunds then go on to discuss why buyers may prefer the JK over the newer JL: “You’ll likely be interested in the 2018 Wrangler JK if you’re dissatisfied with the new Wrangler design or if you value off-road capability above all else — and you’re willing to sacrifice creature comforts for a price discount.”
2018 JK Wrangler Real-owner Reviews
Simply put, owners love their JK Wrangler. Right here at Vehicle History, it received high praise with an average score of 4.8 out of 5 stars with 272 reviews. Even more interesting, in the nearly 300 reviews, no one marked it as a one- or two-star vehicle.
“I absolutely love the new design of the Jeep,” said Kristina B. in the 2020 Vehicle History review of her 2018 Jeep Wrangler Sport. “The seats and headrests are more comfortable, and it drives like you are driving a regular car. It has a lot of ‘get up and go’ for the type of vehicle, and it is absolutely reliable.
“I am so happy that it now has air vents for backseat passengers, too, since I have the soft top and live in Florida.” “It definitely helps to cool down the vehicle,” she added. “One of my favorite upgrades are the speakers. The sound system is so much better than the previous models. I have not run into any problems, so far. Even the removal of the top and windows have been simplified with velcro instead of zippers.”
Another Vehicle History Wrangler review–of a 2018 Jeep Wrangler Sport S–credits the SUV as a decent ride, but it’s not perfect, according to Joy D.
“It is definitely an off-road vehicle, so the drive is not as smooth as I would prefer,” wrote Joy in a 2021 review. “It also does not hug the road as well as I would like. Usually, when it rains or snows, I have to drive in four-wheel drive because it will slide all over the road. It also does not go around curves well.
“[But] it is reliable for getting out of and through the snow,” she continued. “I haven’t had a situation where I couldn’t.”
Here’s what Juan G. posted on Vehicle History, talking about the reliability of his 2018 JK Unlimited Freedom Edition: “This vehicle goes through a lot of endurance-testing with me behind the wheel, especially when I take it off-road. Not to mention how many times I have hit potholes and it shakes all over the place. Suspension may need work to it, but it is still very strong and sturdy.
“I would not trade this vehicle for anything else, that is for sure,” he added.
In the real-owner reviews on the Cars website, the Wrangler received a near-perfect score of 4.9 out of 5 stars from its 197 reviews. Moreover, 98% of those reviewers said that they would recommend this vehicle to a friend.
Over at Edmunds, the JK received an admirable score of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 34 reviews.
Douglas Lower at Edmunds talked about how he would not buy the new JL because of reliability concerns and that he would stick with his JKs.
“This is my seventh purchase of the Jeep JK Wrangler,” wrote Lower. “I have followed the development of the new JL. I am not convinced it is the way to go for me. First, it is a new model that will have teething problems like the JK had in ’07.
“I know what I am buying with the JK,” he continued. “It is nice and simple. I love the new LED headlights and polished alloy wheels. I stayed with the 3.21 axle ratios for gas mileage. The Sahara has the next step up in shocks, so it is a bit firm at first but smooths right out after 1,000 miles.
“This Sahara has a smoother ride than my ’15 Sahara had,” he added in his 2018 Edmunds review. “I feel safer buying tried and true, and I like the style better. I have owned so many vehicles and I keep coming back to the Wrangler Unlimited. It covers all the bases of what I want in one vehicle: a convertible, a tow vehicle, a 4X4, cargo capability with the seat down. a rugged look, easy to personalize. What more could you want?!”
Wrangler JK Known Issues & Recalls
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK was more reliable than any other model year of the JK. This makes sense because it was the last year, so they had plenty of time to work out the kinks. However, this does not mean that the JK was problem free.
In 2019, the RHD version was recalled because the seat belt would separate from the frame. Also, a voltage regulator failure led to a recall in 2018. When the voltage regulator failed, the vehicle could stall, leading to a crash.
Luckily, both of these problems were fixed, leaving the JK leaps and bounds more reliable than the JL.
Check out the 1A Auto video above to see the most common problems that plague the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JK.
JK Value & Depreciation
Edmunds calculated the true cost to own for the JK Wrangler, using one of the most popular configurations: the JK Unlimited Sport. They found that if you drove 15,000 miles per year for five years, the JK Wrangler would depreciate $6,945.
The bulk of the depreciation came in year one, losing $2,644. However, by year five, it lost a mere $942 to depreciation.
So, if you picked up one for the median price of $31,417, it would be worth $26,472 in five years.
Jeep Wrangler JL Trims
Because it was the first year for the JL Wrangler (pictured above), Jeep kept the lineup pretty simple. The automaker offered the same basic four trims, and only had one special edition: the Moab.
A notable change is that Jeep dropped the two-door Sahara option and still haven’t worked out a RHD JL. That being said, the JL Wranglers are better equipped than the previous JK.
Sport: The Sport trim for the JL Wrangler is well equipped. Equipment on the Sport trim includes
- 17-inch steel wheels
- Skid plates
- Tow hooks
- Cruise control
- Backup camera
Sport S: The Sport S trim adds:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Automatic headlights
- Power accessories
- Anti-theft alarm
Sahara (Unlimited Only): The Sahara trim is reserved for the four-door configuration only. This trim adds:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Automatic climate control
- Seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility
- Premium cloth seating
Rubicon: In addition to the equipment provided on the Sahara trim, the Rubicon receives off-roading upgrades. This includes:
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- 33-inch off-road tires
- Dana 44 front & rear axles
- Front disconnecting stabilizer bar
- Performance suspension
JL Wrangler Powertrains
Not only did the classic 3.6L V6 engine return for the new Wrangler generation, but it brought with it a friend: the 2.0L I4 Turbo. While the new engine is much smaller and more efficient, it is not lacking in horsepower or torque, rivaling the old 3.6L.
3.6L Pentastar V6 Engine
The 3.6L V6 returns as the standard engine for the JL Wrangler. Although Jeep didn’t tweak the performance of the block, they did up the MPG.
- Eight-speed automatic (combined/city/highway): 20/18/23
- Six-speed manual (combined/city/highway): 20/17/25
- Eight-speed automatic (combined/city/highway): 20/18/23
- Six-speed manual (combined/city/highway): 19/17/23
Specs
- Horsepower: 285
- Torque (lb.-ft.): 260
Transmission Options: A new six-speed Aislin D478 manual transmission was fitted to the 3.6L V6 for the new JL generation. The new transmission is much smoother than the last. However, it has already been recalled for an overheating clutch plate.
Also, a new eight-speed Torqueflite 850RE automatic transmission made its debut for the new generation.
2.0L Hurricane I4-T Engine
It’s very obvious with the engine options for the JL that Jeep had the environment on their mind when they released the new Wrangler. The first fuel-sipping version they released was the 2.0L Hurricane I4 turbo.
- Eight-speed automatic (combined/city/highway): 24/23/25
- Eight-speed automatic (combined/city/highway): 22/22/24
Specs
- Horsepower: 270
- Torque (lb.-ft.): 295
Transmission Options: Only the eight-speed Torqueflite 850RE automatic transmission is fitted to the Hurricane motor.
Is the JL Wrangler Spacious?
As is the status quo with the auto industry, as time goes on, vehicles get even larger. The Jeep Wrangler is no exception to this rule.
The new JL Wrangler grew even larger than the JK. While it’s only by a few inches here and there, it should be noted that Wranglers get bigger with every generation.
Exterior (Two-door/Four-door)
- Wheelbase Length: 96.8/118.4 inches
- Overall Length: 166.8/188.4 inches
- Overall Width (excluding mirrors): 73.8 inches
- Overall Height: 73.6 inches
Interior (Two-door/Four-door)
- First-row Head Room: 42.6 inches
- Second-row Head Room: 41.7 inches
- First-row Legroom: 41.2 inches
- Second-row Legroom: 35.7/38.3 inches
Capacities/Weights (Two-door/Four-door)
- Fuel Tank: 15.4/17.9 gallons
- Highest Payload Capacity: 1,000 lbs
- Towing Capacity: 2,000/3,500 lbs
Click on the video above to see the interior design of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler and hear from the creative talent behind it, including the Jeep Wrangler’s interior designer, Ryan Patrick Joyce.
JL Wrangler Special Editions
The only special edition for the JL Wrangler is the Moab. It bridges the gap between the Rubicon and Sahara. Like the Sahara, it’s offered only as the four-door version.
Moab (Unlimited Only): The Moab takes everything on the Sahara and adds off-roading upgrades such as:
- Steel bumpers
- Rock rails
- 17-inch black Rubicon wheels
- 32-inch mud tires
- Limited-slip rear differential
Wrangler JL Exterior Colors
Similar to the JK, the JL comes in several different color options. For those who like to stand out, there are the vibrant ones like Mojito, Hellayella, Punkn, and Firecracker Red. For those who like to blend in with the crowd there’s black and white options as well as Billet Silver Metallic and Granite Crystal Metallic.
Wrangler JL Interior Colors
The Jeep Wrangler JL’s interior options are somehow even plainer than the JK’s, offering only two interior options: black and Heritage Tan. These again come in different upholsteries like cloth, premium cloth, and leather.
Sport & Sport S
- Black cloth
- Heritage Tan cloth
Sahara
- Black cloth with Sahara logo (standard)
- Heritage Tan cloth with Sahara logo (standard)
- Black leather with Sahara logo (optional)
- Heritage Tan leather with Sahara logo (optional)
Rubicon
- Premium Black cloth with Rubicon red logo (standard)
- Black leather with red Rubicon logo (optional)
- Heritage tan leather with light tungsten Rubicon logo (optional)
JL Wrangler Top Options
The Jeep Wrangler JL has several different excellent top offerings for the Wrangler. Notably, the new Sky One-Touch Power Top roof has been added. This is an optional automatic top for the Sahara and Rubicon Unlimited. Additional options include:
- Black Sunrider Soft Top (standard on Sport, Sport S, and Rubicon)
- Heritage Tan Sunrider Soft Top (standard on Sport, Sport S, and Rubicon)
- Black Freedom Hard Top (optional on all trim levels)
- Body-colored Freedom Hard Top (optional on Sahara and Rubicon)
- Sky One-touch Power Top (available on Sahara and Rubicon Unlimited)
JL Wrangler Wheels
The wheels on the newest JL are an improvement and look great, with a particularly sturdy, stylish appearance. Now, if you want a super-stylish albeit aggressive look, check out the base model Sport edition’s black wheels. Jeep didn’t forget about the other end of the spectrum, as the top-of-the-line Rubicon also has some very cool-looking wheels available.
Sport Wheels
- 17-inch low-gloss black steel (standard)
Sport S Wheels
- 17-inch Tech Silver aluminum (standard)
- 17-inch polished aluminum (optional)
Sahara Wheels
- 18-inch polished aluminum with granite crystal spokes (standard)
- 18-inch polished aluminum with tech gray inserts (optional)
Rubicon Wheels
- 17-inch polished aluminum with mid-gloss pockets (standard)
- 17-inch mid-gloss black aluminum with polished lip (optional)
Are Wrangler JLs Safe in Accidents?
As for the safety of the new fourth-generation Wrangler, Jeep upped the game. It did not receive a Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, but it did receive “good” marks from the IIHS in every category except for the small overlap front test on the driver’s side.
Jeep never fixed the dim headlight problem, earning them another “poor” mark for the category. That aside, the newer JL Wrangler seems to be much safer than the previous generation.
Although Jeep never fixed the headlight problem, they certainly fixed their LATCH problem. The IIHS gave them top marks for their improved LATCH ease of use.
The IIHS notes that the anchor points are easy to find, clearly marked, easy to attach to, and easy to maneuver around. The system is similar to the one found in the JK where the middle system borrows anchors from the outside seats.
2018 JL Reviews: What Auto Critics Said Then
Now, let’s delve into what notable auto reviewers thought of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler when it was first released. Starting us off is Daniel Pund from Car and Driver, who liked how Jeep did not screw up the Wrangler recipe, and that it’s easier to take off the top. What he didn’t like was its lack of low-end torque and tough transmission.
“A large part of the improvement comes from the new eight-speed automatic that replaces the old five-speed, a relic from the Daimler Chrysler days,” wrote Pund. “The V6 is also available with a new Aisin-built six-speed manual that replaces the old Mercedes-based six-speed. Jeep says the Aisin is better isolated from vibration and noise. Okay, maybe. But it’s certainly no more fun to operate.
“The one we drove resisted slotting into gear and would not be rushed. Further, the clutch engaged with an abruptness that saw many experienced drivers stall the thing. As for the 3.6-liter, well, it’s a fine engine but not ideally suited for this application. It lacks low-end torque.”
“In a hard top Wrangler, the panels over the driver and front passenger now require but a quarter turn on each of the latches to remove,” he mentioned later in the Car and Driver review. “The new front-fender vents evacuate underhood air to reduce hood flutter at speed. This is a carefully considered improvement, if not a wholesale rethink of the family jewel. In short, Jeep did not screw it up.”
In his 2018 review for J.D. Power, journalist Christian Wardlaw welcomed a new iteration of a beloved road legend but noted the new Wrangler’s lack of on-road comfort and weighty aerodynamics.
“With the new 2018 Wrangler JL, Jeep has made significant strides in terms of improving the SUV’s user-friendliness, technological sophistication, and driving dynamics while at the same time retaining the design, the capabilities, and the image that makes this vehicle an American icon,” wrote Wardlaw in his 2018 review.
While that may sound promising, he was not totally sold on the 2018 Jeep.
“Though it is substantially better than the Wrangler JK, the new Wrangler JL still isn’t as refined as a typical crossover SUV, or as quiet, or as comfortable, or as easy to get into and out of, or as easy to load with cargo, or as fuel-efficient, or as smooth to drive on pavement,” he added in his J.D. Power review. “After all, it is purpose-built to go places few other vehicles can, and inherent to that mission are compromises in terms of daily drivability.”
Graham Kozak from Autoweek reviewed a 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL Rubicon in late 2017, and he didn’t just do any ol’ first-drive review either. He took the off-roader way off-road — to South Island, New Zealand for a two-and-a-half-day overland adventure.
“We’re driving 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL Rubicons through some of the world’s most mind-melting scenery, taking the slow, hard routes, crossing streams as often as we can and trying to touch pavement as infrequently as possible,” he wrote in his comprehensive coverage.
“For the swelling legions of people who do really get the Jeep Thing, the JL is just about perfect,” wrote Kozak. “It’s everything great about the previous Wranglers made better: It can do astounding things right from the factory, it is rivaled only by Lego or the AR-15 when it comes to customization potential (Mopar already has hundreds of parts in the catalog, and the aftermarket is just getting revved up), and while our off-road-centric journey didn’t give much of a taste of its on-road manners, it does promise to be more comfortable on pavement and somewhat more livable day-to-day than the JK.”
He also talked about how the Wrangler cannot be compared to other vehicles because it is so unique, and he mentioned how the Wrangler is just about as customizable as Legos.
2018 Wrangler JL: Real Owners Reviews
When new, the 2018 JL Wrangler was met with similar success on Vehicle History and Cars. However, it took a massive dive on Edmunds, where owners noticed several issues with the vehicle, which received a subpar rating.
Here at Vehicle History, the JL received a 4.7 out of 5 stars, with 251 reviews counted.
Over at Cars, the JL received a 4.7 out of 5 as well, with 62 reviews counted. And 95% of drivers said they would recommend it to a friend.
Consumer reviews over at Edmunds were not so kind. The JL received a 3.3 out of 5 stars, with 60 reviews. At Edmunds, owners didn’t like that the vehicle was riddled with problems that seemed to have no solution. Some reported having to wait months for parts for their brand-new vehicle. Others didn’t like that it was created with the help of Fiat.
“Seems like these JLs are plagued with issues and Jeep has no support to fix them,” wrote one Edmunds visitor. “Wish I could say it was one specific thing but the dealer just keeps throwing guesswork and parts at it only to have the check engine light come right back on again.”
“Make no mistake, the Wrangler JL Unlimited is a fun car, and it is still a Jeep,” added another Jeep owner on Edmunds. “And there are so many improvements over the JK. But you should get something that ‘feels’ more quality for 50 grand, rather than something that feels slapped together with a lousy transmission and the same boring old Pentastar V6 that FCA has put in just about every vehicle built for the last 10 years.”
Wrangler JL Known Issues & Recalls
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL is reportedly riddled with problems, it has been recalled 11 times, received over 1,200 complaints, and has four investigations on the NHTSA.
Unequivocally, the worst problem with the new Wrangler is the steering. It tracks all over the road and is an absolute pain for drivers to keep in their lane. This steering problem accounts for nearly 900 of the total complaints. Otherwise, the famous Wrangler death wobble is common at high speeds.
The manual transmission was recalled for an overheating clutch pressure plate in early 2020.
In May 2018, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) recalled the Wrangler and several other vehicles because the cruise control could not be cancelled.
Also, certain 2018 to 2019 Jeep Wrangler JL models were recalled for improper frame welds.
In November 2018, FCA issued a recall notice for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL Unlimited that only affected 52 units. The affected models may have been built with a right rear door latch that is off location, which may cause the outside door handle to not latch securely.
Unsurprisingly, with the laundry-list of problems that plague the JL, the NHTSA opened a few investigations to get to the bottom of the issues. Weld quality deficiencies and airbag control unit (ACU) stress problems are still open for investigation. The ACU found on the Wrangler was supplied to six OEMs and has been recalled across the board. The Office of Defects Investigation is still investigating to fix it for the future.
JL Wrangler Value & Depreciation
Edmunds calculated the true cost to own a JL Wrangler using one of the most popular configurations: the JL Unlimited Sport. They calculated that if you drove 15,000 miles per year for five years, the JL Wrangler would depreciate $9,924. That’s almost $3,000 more than the JK Wrangler.
The bulk of the depreciation came in year one once again, losing $3,443. It would lose $1,418 in depreciation for year five.
So, if you picked up one for the median price of $35,588, it would be worth $25,664 in five years. That’s even less than the JK.
What’s the Difference Between the JK & JL Jeeps?
The current fourth-generation Wrangler received the nomenclature of Jeep Wrangler JL. In 2018, the JL was sold alongside the previous-generation JK. Aesthetically, the third and fourth generations are very similar. There are few styling cues to identify the two.
It’s clear that the fourth-generation Wrangler had efficiency at the forefront of its design. For example, the tailgate is now made of magnesium, and the doors, hood, and windshield frame are made of aluminum to reduce weight.
Although the standard engine remains the 3.6L V6, a new 2.0L I4 turbo engine is optional. This new four-cylinder engine has 15 fewer hp than the six-cylinder. However, it gets four more combined mpg than the six-cylinder: 24 and 20, respectively. The JL comes standard with a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Jeep Wrangler JK & JL Prices
The Wrangler Unlimited comes in at first place for the lowest depreciation of any vehicle on the road. In the first five years of ownership, the Unlimited is expected to lose 30.9 percent of its value.
The two-door Wrangler, however, comes in at third place, losing 32.8 percent of its value in five years. Below is the dealer “Fair Market Range” computed by Kelley Blue Book for each variation of Wrangler:
JK Wranglers
- Sport: $26,521 – $29,548
- Sport Unlimited: $31,497 – $35,336
- Sport RHD Unlimited: $30,440 – $34,149
- Sport S: $26,885 – $29,954
- Sport S Unlimited: $31,406 – $35,233
- Sahara: $29,759 – $33,136
- Sahara Unlimited: $34,494 – $38,697
- Rubicon: $30,734 – $34,223
- Rubicon Unlimited: $37,724 – $42,321
- Rubicon Recon: $35,596 – $39,311
- Rubicon Recon Unlimited: $37,607 – $42,190
- Golden Eagle: $26,991 – $30,066
- Golden Eagle Unlimited: $32,208 – $36,133
- Freedom Edition: $27,551 – $30,690
- Freedom Edition Unlimited: $31,664 – $35,523
- Willys Wheeler: $27,177 – $30,274
- Willys Wheeler Unlimited: $31,649 – $35,506
- Willys Wheeler W: $28,018 – $31,211
- Willys Wheeler W Unlimited: $32,022 – $35,925
- Altitude: $29,893 – $33,286
- Altitude Unlimited: $34,201 – $38,368
JL Wranglers
- Sport: $28,675 – $31,936
- Sport Unlimited: $33,544 – $37,631
- Sport S: $28,956 – $32,249
- Sport S Unlimited: $33,976 – $38,117
- Sahara Unlimited: $37,364 – $41,919
- Rubicon: $37,624 – $41,384
- Rubicon Unlimited: $42,928 – $48,161
- Moab Unlimited: $39,468 – $44,279
2018 JK & JL Reviews: What Auto Critics Say Today
“The purpose of the Jeep is simple: To be pretty good at off-roading, and nothing more than decent on the road. And I can assure you, it’s nothing more than decent on the road,” says Vehicle History writer Austin Kinney in his 2021 review of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler.
“Unfortunately, there’s not too much to compare the Wrangler to,” he adds. “Sure, there’s other 4x4s on the road, but not ones that can take the doors and the roof off. So, it wins by default, for now, of course.”
Although he finds the tech “mediocre” and the speakers “nothing to write home about,” Kinney had a bigger concern.
“The steering is a chore,” he says, “something that you have to feel to understand. And it turns out that I’m not alone,” he says in the Kinney’s Reviews clip. “Of 1,100 complaints received on the NHTSA, 800 of them involved steering. And that’s not to mention over 10 recalls.”
He does cite the Jeep’s better aspects. “The pros for the Wrangler is that it offers great visibility, it’s very spacious, it’s powerful enough, and it’s capable of some moderate off-roading — like a snowbank or two, or a gravel parking lot.”
Check out the video below to see the Vehicle History writer’s full review of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL.
In Driving Line’s 2020 video Jeep Wrangler JK Buyer’s Guide (2007-2018), auto journalist Ali Mansour covered a wide range of Wranglers.
However, when it comes to buying a pre-owned Jeep Wrangler, he recommended going with the older models.
“If you’re a purist that just loves rowing gears, then you’ll be glad to know that from 2007 to 2018, you can get a manual transmission,” said Mansour. “…The new Wranglers (2011-2018) have way more nice touchpoints, and a more refined interior.
“We like the transmissions in the later-model Wranglers and just think they’ve really got the package so much more dialed up the later the Wrangler went into production.”
An excellent source of Wrangler inspiration is the YouTube channel All Over Colorado, which often features the host taking his Jeep into adventurous locales while also documenting the masterful modding of his Wrangler.
The then-new 2018 Wrangler was first introduced to All Over Colorado’s YouTube audience in February 2018. He mentioned then that he only had the brand-new Jeep for two weeks at that point, and he had yet to take it off-road and “into the mountains.”
A year into ownership of the Wrangler, All Over Colorado featured a telling update after putting over 20,000 miles on the odometer — and these weren’t just any ol’ miles. Those miles included: “…over 14,000 feet to the top of Mount Evans. We’ve been to the top of Trail Ridge Road, that’s over 12,000 feet, and about three trips to Ouray, Colorado.”
“Just want to do a quick update on some minor issues,” he adds. “The Jeep now has 20,403 miles, and really, it’s been mostly trouble-free.
“I have a couple issues, including the V41 steering damper recall and my rear window defroster wire coming off the back window. Otherwise it’s been pretty smooth sailing!
“My rear defroster no longer works,” he continues. “A wire came disconnected from the surface of the glass [of the back window]. It appears to use some sort of conductive epoxy, but it popped off. So, I have an appointment to get that fixed.”
Interestingly, the comment about the rear defroster sparked replies in the comments section that seem to indicate that this is a common problem, and something to look for when scouting pre-owned 2018 Jeep Wranglers.
“That rear defroster is a known issue,” replied one YouTuber viewer. ”The repair doesn’t seem to last.”
“I had the same problem,” said another.
“[I have a] 2020 Jeep Sahara, 5,000 miles,” added another. “Defroster lead broke just like yours. This should be basic engineering.”
Edmunds got a bit more thorough in its 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon long-term test review, which is highlighted in a 2020 video. The Wrangler Rubicon was outfitted for extreme off-roading. “But we also wanted to see how it would do day-to-day in Los Angeles during the monotony of a commute and while you’re running errands,” said Edmunds reviewer Carlos Lago, who set out to see if the 2018 Wrangler is a true daily-drivable Jeep.
“It’s much better in terms of drivability and comfort than previous Wranglers,” said Lago from behind the wheel. “But the driving experience is still definitely unique to Wranglers [when compared] among new modern cars.
“When you lay into the gas pedal, it accelerates way more quickly than you would expect from a Wrangler,” he added. “And that’s a boon, especially when you’re in gridlock commuting, because you can navigate around traffic much more easily. And that also works because of the Jeep’s compact size. …It’s actually a pretty fun car to drive around in traffic.”
In 2020, a YouTuber at Full Throttle Nonsense spent three weeks driving a 2018 Jeep Wrangler Sahara as his service loaner.
He starts the video with a quick walkaround of the vehicle, pointing out the functional fender vents — unique to 2018 and newer models — and other details like the Jeep logo on the headlights and the Willys Jeep decal on the wheels.
He opens the hood to reveal the 2.0L turbo engine underneath, before taking it on a road test to showcase its 0-60 mph acceleration. Once he returns, he mentions “it’s not too bad as far as pick-up… I was actually kind of surprised that it was as quick as it was being a 2.0L turbo.”
As for gas mileage, he says: “It’s not terrible. It’s right around 16 to 19 depending on how I’m driving. So, if you drive a little nicer than I do, you could get 20, into the mid 20s, I’m sure.”
He then shows off the Alpine sound system, pointing out the various speakers built into the dash and pillars, as well as the subwoofer in the rear. “It does shake the rear view and the side mirrors a little bit, because the bass is pretty decent,” he says. “I definitely give it an A+ for the audio”.
Concerning the 2018 Jeep’s drivability, he says: “If you’ve ever driven a Jeep Wrangler before I’m sure it’s not much different. The only thing that I don’t like about it is that I’m coming out of a 2014 Grand Cherokee that had different suspension, so my ride that I’m used to is a little bit smoother. This [Wrangler]’s a little bit more like a truck.
“If you haven’t driven a Wrangler before,” he adds, “I definitely recommend test-driving it before you decide to buy one just because it looks cool. That being said, it’s not a bad ride.”
To see the 2018 Wrangler’s test-drive, check out the Full Throttle Nonsense video below.
Jeep Wrangler JK & JL Warranty
The warranty for the JL is the exact same as the JK. The warranty starts on the day that the vehicle was purchased.
It is important to note that racing or modifying the vehicle voids the warranty in most cases. So, if you intend on creating an off-roading beast, bear that in mind.
Here are the deadlines and mileage limits for each warranty the Wrangler comes with:
- Basic Limited Warranty (“Bumper-to-Bumper”): three-year/36,000 miles
- Powertrain Limited Warranty: five-year/60,000 miles
- Federal Emissions Warranty: five-year/50,000 miles
- Anti-Corrosion Perforation Limited Warranty (All Panels): three-year/unlimited miles
- Anti-Corrosion Perforation Limited Warranty (Exterior Panels): three-year/unlimited miles
So, is the JK or JL Better?
As we’re sure you have noticed, there are several different options for the Wrangler. While this is a good thing, it also makes buying one harder. Let’s narrow it down even further to help you figure out which is best for you.
If you care about new technology and having the most current Jeep Wrangler, get the JL. However, if you are okay with having the previous generation and missing out on some standard technology, the JK is the way.
Also, it’s important to remember that everything has its pros and cons. The JK is more affordable, has less problems, and will not depreciate as much as the JL. But keep in mind, its technology is older and lacking.
The JL costs more, will depreciate more, and have more problems. Although, you do get better technology and a newer vehicle.
We must note that no matter which generation you go with, we recommend the 3.6L V6 as it has less problems than the 2.0L I4 turbo offered on the JL.
Conclusion: Which Trim is Right for Me?
The Jeep Wrangler is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable vehicles on the road today, and the 2018 Wrangler is no exception. What’s more, you literally get to choose between two different models, the JK and the JL, due to the mid-year release of the latter.
The JK is more affordable, has less problems, and will not depreciate as much as the JL. However, its technology is lacking and is older.
The JL costs more, will depreciate more, and have more problems. Although, you do get better technology and a newer vehicle.
Once you’ve decided between a JK and JL, your next step is to decide how many doors and what trim you want. Since the number of doors limits the trim choices, you must first decide whether you want a two- or four-door Wrangler.
Speaking of trims, if you plan on buying a Wrangler to modify it for off-roading, we recommend a Sport or Sport S, mostly due to the lower price tag. For those who plan to keep it on the road, a Sahara is a great option due to the added creature comforts and standard street tires.
Finally, if you want a capable off-roader but don’t want to modify it, the mighty Rubicon will get the job done, albeit at a heftier starting price.
Our final thoughts? You really can’t go wrong with a Wrangler, if you know what you’re getting yourself into.
The Wrangler has never tried to be the most comfortable vehicle on the road, or the most fuel efficient, or even the prettiest. No, the Wrangler is an off-road machine that’s been perfected over the course of nearly 70 years (if you count its CJ roots).
However, if you have no intentions of driving a Wrangler off-road, its on-road performance is plenty adequate across the board. Our suggestion is similar to that mentioned by automotive influencers and experts: Test drive one first.
If you’ve found yourself a 2018 Wrangler and think it could be the one, do yourself a favor and check its history first using our free VIN search tool. If all the recalls have been performed, the pricing matches up, and no other red flags appear, you may have found yourself a winner.
We’ve sincerely enjoyed our time researching and writing this article, and if you’ve made it this far, we hope it was a pleasant experience.
Reasons to Trust Us
Since we began the initial research for this nearly 9,000-word 2018 Jeep Wrangler Buyer’s Guide, we’ve spent over 75 hours researching, collating, and studying dozens of auto reviews and high-quality videos. In addition to quoting from relevant reviews and studies from many expert automotive sources — from Edmunds and the National Highway Safety Association to Jeep itself — we also spent 50 hours of real-world road-testing behind the wheel of a 2018 Jeep Wrangler. To create this comprehensive guide to buying a pre-owned Jeep Wrangler JK or JL, Vehicle History enlisted the expertise of auto journalist Austin M. Kinney, whose coverage can be found on popular sites like Drive Tribe and his YouTube channel, Kinney’s Reviews.
Photos: Jeep; Evox Images
