I think it’s fair to say that, at one point or another, most of us have considered looking into Jeeps For Sale. Our reasons may be personal, but here in New England, it’s fair easy to break this segment of our population down into a few different groups.
First, of course, you have the off-road enthusiasts. Working all model years and trim levels of the Wrangler, they are what initially comes to mind when you think of ‘Jeep’. Dominating all terrains with their lifted and modded 4×4…climbing, mudding, towing (and sometimes rolling) they are depicted, within our cultural mindset, as some of the most extreme motorists on (and off) the road.
Then, you have the sensible Northeasterner. While 4×4 and AWD models permeate the offerings of nearly all automakers, our minds often gravitate to Jeep models when we think of all-season versatility. And while some of that perceived versatility has been fueled by mental snapshots of the Wrangler, the last three decades have elevated the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee to a separate but nearly equal level of cult status.
And of course, there are those who are more casual in their interest, possibly swayed from another automaker by Jeep’s appealing price points, distinctive design notes or available features. These drivers might be more likely to consider a Renegade, Patriot or Compass; all fine offerings that help to flesh out the Jeep line to ensure that there is ‘something for everyone’.
At the end of the day, there are no rules to being interested in a Jeep, and there’s really no surprise when you find out that somebody is. Their combination of versatility, reliability, and long vehicle life are sufficient motivation for any New Englanders to consider purchasing new or used. The goal is to find the model most suitable to the unique demands of your lifestyle.
So Which Is Right For You?
The fact is, if you include yourself among the off-road enthusiasts, you don’t need any help making up your mind. You know what you want, and what you need for the type of excursions you have planned. If you’re an aspiring off-roader who’s unsure of what they need, a club like the Monadnock Jeepers can provide more experienced insight. At the end of the day, we could write countless pieces on the (equally) countless configurations of the Wrangler. With that in mind, let’s shift our focus to some of the other Jeep Models that may be ideal for New Englanders.
Priced to start at $17,995 MSRP, the Renegade is accessible both in terms of pricing and in the overall car-likeness expected of a subcompact crossover. Sporting a look that is distinctively Jeep, albeit, with an infusion of funk, the Renegade’s looks fit in with urban nightlife…while its Trailhawk trim level keeps it suitable for rural off-roading. With four trim levels to choose from, the Sport and Latitude models are powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired to a six-speed manual transmission and rated for 160 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. You can also opt for the configuration that comes standard on the Limited and Trailhawk trims: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission, that delivers 180 hp and 175 lb-ft.
The Patriot is equally as accessible in terms of pricing at $18,040 MSRP but tends to fall under the shadow of some of Jeep’s more compelling offerings (such as the Renegade and Compass) due simply to its longevity. Across its two primary trim levels, are two powertrain configurations. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder can be paired with a five-speed manual transmission or CVT, delivering 158 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque. The 2.4-liter four-cylinder can opt for a six-speed automatically and serves up 172 hp and 165 lb-ft.
With 2017 coming to a close, the tandem-sale of the outgoing and All-New Compass models is winding down. Starting at $20,995 MSRP, the updated Compass boasts a stronger chassis, updated suspension, and refined powertrain configurations. With four trim levels to choose from, each is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder paired to a nine-speed automatic transmission, rated at 180 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque. Much like that of the Renegade, the Compass’ design tiptoes between ‘classic Jeep’ and funky refresh, a welcome change.
At $23,695 MSRP the Cherokee bridges the gap between the playful versatility of the above models to the luxury-inspired performance of those to follow. With a 2.4-liter four-cylinder, the Cherokee is rated at 184 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque. Opt for the 3.2-liter V6 and score yourself 271 hp and 239 lb-ft.
Recognized as the ‘Most Awarded SUV Ever’ the Grand Cherokee is priced to start at $30,395. With off-road prowess and compelling powertrain configurations, there’s a lot to like. Opt for the (base) 3.6-liter V6 and score 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 5.7-liter V8 will pump those numbers up to 360 ho and 390 lb-ft, while the turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel V6 will give you 240 hp and 420lb-ft.
And if you’re looking to go top-of-the-line, the Grand Cherokee SRT churns out 475 hp and 470 lb-ft courtesy of a 6.4-liter V8. Considering its wealth of amenities, no-one should be surprised that it is priced to start at $66,895. That said, it won’t leave you wanting.
Winter Is Coming.
In other parts of the world, those three words might be no more than a ‘Game of Thrones’ reference, but here in New England, it means stocking up on wood or pellets, switching over to snow tires and making sure your plow (or plow guy) is ready to go.
If you’ve been thinking about a Jeep’s all-season versatility, this is a great time to take a look. Otherwise, you might find yourself spending another winter in a less reliable vehicle, wishing that you had. There’s still time…
