One of the biggest decisions when buying a Wrangler is selecting the top. Purists prefer the soft top, a high-quality piece of equipment that can be configured according to the weather. Folding the top down takes only a third of the time it took before the top was redesigned for 2001. If a screwdriver is handy, the windshield can be flipped down for breezy, low-speed touring in the backcountry.
The optional hard top ($920) is more practical and offers better protection from weather and theives. The hard top comes with full-height doors and roll-up windows. Rearward visibility is better, and further aided by the rear-window defroster, wiper and washer. Wind noise is greatly reduced also. The hard top can be removed, though we haven't tried.
For those who want the best of both worlds, Jeep offers a package that includes both the hard top and soft top, in matching colors ($1,560). Either top is far easier to remove or install than those of pre-2001 models and provides much better sealing from the elements.
The exterior mirrors are made of plastic, which Jeep engineers say holds up better than metal when going off-road. Next Page