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Jeep was best known during WWII for its military-grade vehicles used to transport troops and supplies. But with the debut of the Willys-Overland CJ in 1945, Jeep started to redefine itself as an iconic off-road vehicle for civilian use. However, what are the best Jeep models now?

From basic utility to full-blown SUV models, Jeep has been crafting some of the best models on and off the roads for decades. Recently, the company has added more enticing models to suit various needs and wants. So, if you’re in the market for a vehicle that can traverse any terrain and won’t cost you an arm and a leg to maintain, then here are the best Jeep models you should consider.

1. Jeep Renegade

As the name suggests, the Renegade is a subcompact SUV that beats the odds thanks to its abbreviated dimensions, practical cabin space, and powerful engine options. Its short and stubby setup makes it maneuverable, allowing more off-road potential than most competitors.

Even better, the Renegade offers a wide selection of trim levels with two available engines—a 1.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and the 2.4-liter Tigershark inline-four. According to Repairpal, the Renegade has an average annual repair cost of $498 and earned a 4 out of 5 rating in reliability. Expect a more fuel-efficient ride with the optional turbocharged 1.3-liter powertrain, which achieved the best EPA estimate of 29 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on highways.

2. Jeep Cherokee

A Jeep Cherokee, one of the Best Jeep Models
Jeep Cherokee | Stillantis

With class-leading off-road and towing capabilities, the Jeep Cherokee is a charming compact crossover SUV ready for any terrain. Its bold and iconic design comes with distinctive LED headlamps and fog lamps, which give the Cherokee a rugged yet sophisticated look.

Under the hood, it has three engine options—a standard 2.4-liter inline-four with 180 hp, an optional 3.2-liter V6 delivering 271 hp, and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 270 hp. According to Car and Driver, the Renegade doesn’t offer the best in fuel economy, with its best earning an EPA estimate of 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on highways. Buying a Jeep Cherokee isn’t expensive either, as it has an average annual repair cost of $520, according to Repairpal, and a 4.0 out of 5.0 rating in reliability.

3. Jeep Compass

The Compass is one of the stylish and best-priced Jeeps in the market today. It’s a compact crossover with an athletic look and composed handling. Its roomy, functional interior and good cargo capacity make it an ideal family SUV, while its off-road prowess is best experienced when you opt for the Trailhawk trim.

Following its redesign, the Compass gets a new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 200 hp and makes 221 lb-ft of torque. Also included comes a more responsive eight-speed transmission and all-wheel drive system across all trim levels. Owning a Jeep Compass won’t cost you more than $526 in repairs annually.

4. Jeep Grand Cherokee

Talk of well-refined road manners and effortless off-roading and the Jeep Grand Cherokee is often mentioned in the same breath. Built with more luxury and comfort in mind, the Grand Cherokee is a quintessentially American family SUV.

Its polished exterior design, adorned with signature Jeep features, including the signature seven-slat grille, chrome accents, and unique LED headlights, make it a stand-out on the roads. It also packs plenty of power with three engine choices—the standard 3.6-liter V6, the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engine with a best-in-class towing capacity of 7,200 pounds, and a plug-in-hybrid turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder 4xe powertrain.

According to Repairpal, the Grand Cherokee has an average annual repair cost of $666 and a 3.5 out of 5.0 rating in reliability, making it a reliable and efficient option for your daily commute.

5. Jeep Wrangler

Since its introduction in the late 1940s, the Jeep Wrangler has become a cult classic. An iconic off-road SUV, best enjoyed when taken on back roads and trails. Its convertible top provides an alfresco experience, while its short wheelbase allows for more maneuverability and crawling on any terrain.

With two-door and four-door body options, the Wrangler offers five powertrains, including the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with 285 hp, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, an available diesel engine, as well as two hybrid options. Owning a Jeep Wrangler will only cost you about $694 in repairs annually.

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