The 2023 Jeep Wrangler is here. Unfortunately, the new model doesn’t boast many radical improvements to the iconic SUV. Thus, like the 2022 version, the latest Wrangler doesn’t earn much praise from Consumer Reports. However, CR’s reviewers like two things about the 2023 Jeep Wrangler.

1. The 2023 Jeep Wrangler is still a formidable off-roader

Unsurprisingly, one of the 2023 Jeep Wrangler’s best features is its off-road capabilities. This is true no matter the trim level, though some Wrangler models are more capable than others. Every Wrangler can tackle off-road obstacles thanks to the impressive ground clearance of 10.8 inches. Plus, the hill descent control tool can help drivers navigate steep hills.

But the best Wrangler model for off-roading is the Rubicon. Jeep gave this trim a ton of features that make it even more capable, including a heavy-duty suspension, front and rear locking differentials, and protective underbody skid plates. On top of that, unlike the other Wrangler models, the Rubicon comes with off-road tires. 

2. The 2023 Jeep Wrangler packs a potent standard V6

The other thing Consumer Reports likes about the 2023 Jeep Wrangler is its standard V6 powertrain. It’s a 3.6-liter V6 making 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Jeep offers a handful of other engine options, including a 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6, a 6.4-liter V8, and even a hybrid on the 4xe model. Though the hybrid is more efficient and the V8 is more powerful, the V6 strikes a good balance.

This V6 is mated to a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s also powerful enough to push the Wrangler from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds, a decent split for an SUV. And, of course, because the Wrangler is designed for off-roading, all models have four-wheel drive.

Here’s what Consumer Reports doesn’t like about the 2023 model

Unfortunately, those two positive traits don’t make up for the 2023 Jeep Wrangler’s problems. That’s why it received a poor overall score from Consumer Reports. CR reviewers have four main complaints about the Wrangler, and fuel economy is one. The standard V6 gets an abysmal 18 mpg, though it’s a slight improvement over the 17 mpg on the previous model year. 

Another issue is the vehicle’s access. Despite being a smaller SUV, the Wrangler isn’t easy to enter and exit. Ironically, the hard-to-use running boards are partly to blame. Even if riders don’t use the running boards, the Wrangler is still tricky to access because of its ground clearance. However, once inside, riders will enjoy soft, comfortable seats.

Unfortunately, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler’s overall comfort isn’t great for two reasons. The first concerns the Jeep’s ride quality, which Consumer Reports calls “stiff.” Riders will notice every bump, and even on smoother roads, the Wrangler still feels “jittery.” The other issue is wind noise, which can get “overwhelming” at highway speeds.