The 2009 Jeep Wrangler ranks 20 out of 27 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 56 published reviews and test drives of the Jeep Wrangler, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Jeep Wrangler shines for its rugged off-road capabilities. However, it pays the price in on-road handling and comfort, which fall far short of other compact SUVs. For a more comfortable off-road vehicle, consider the Nissan Xterra and Ford Explorer.
Since the Wrangler was completely redesigned for 2007, the 2009 model remains virtually unchanged, with the exception of new standard Hill Start Assist. Though the Wrangler's weaknesses are still in its on-road performance, this may not matter to some buyers. "This off-roader emphasizes rock crawling over highway comfort, and when it comes to hardcore trailblazing, it's rarely matched," says Cars.com. The Wrangler's poor fuel economy doesn't help its case much -- the 15/19 mpg rating is currently the lowest in the small SUV class. However, its off-road chops, distinctive styling and convertible top have helped the Wrangler build a dedicated following. With the four-door model, the Wrangler can even work as a rugged family car.
The Wrangler comes in three trim levels -- the base X, Sahara, and top-of-the-line Rubicon -- in either a basic two-door or an Unlimited four-door version.
If you're a serious off-road driver, you'll absolutely love the 2009 Jeep Wrangler, as few SUVs can match the Wrangler's rugged capabilities. But if you want smooth or comfortable daily driving performance, the Wrangler isn't for you. "We can't forget that most of the Wrangler's wrongs are necessary to make other things right," says Automotive.com. "Of the 77 vehicles calling themselves 'SUV,' try finding even one that the Wrangler won't walk all over when the pavement ends." Continue with our full Wrangler Performance Review to learn about the Rubicon model's best-in-class ground clearance. continue
Wrangler Exterior - 8.0 (Very Good)
The Wrangler's 2007 redesign preserved its classic Jeep styling -- a plus for reviewers. "Both trim levels are readily identifiable as Wranglers, although styling is crisper," says MSN. "Retro Jeep features are a signature 7-slot grille, upright rectangular windshield, round headlights, boxy 'greenhouse' area above the door line, jutting fenders and exposed forged hinges." In 2007, Jeep added the four-door Unlimited model, which is the largest Wrangler ever. Continue with our full Wrangler Exterior Review to learn why reviewers have complaints about the rear liftgate. continue
Wrangler Interior - 6.2 (Mediocre)
While the 2009 Wrangler's interior has come a long way from Wranglers of the past, it's still not up to par with the competition. "In front, the Wrangler disappoints due to small cupholders, a lack of storage space, characterless analog gauges, cheap-feeling climate-control knobs and plenty of budget-themed plastic on the dash and doors," says Edmunds. Continue with our Wrangler Interior Review to learn why the X base model is one of the most sparse SUVs on the market when it comes to standard features. continue
Wrangler Safety - NA
The Wrangler comes with several accident avoidance features as standard equipment. Both the two-door and four-door versions of the 2009 Jeep Wrangler do well in federal government crash tests. Continue with our full Wrangler Safety Review to learn why rear visibility could pose a hazard. continue
Wrangler Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2009 Jeep Wrangler reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Jeep offers a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Wrangler Reliability Review to learn about the Wrangler's new lifetime powertrain warranty.
