We talk about Jeeps a lot. The reason Jeep is a “constant” in the constantly changing sea of the automotive world. This is because even when it’s updated and conforms to the times, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler still maintains that Jeep-y rustic charm.

Jeep Wranglers give drivers a sense of opportunity and options to take on a multitude of situations. Whether or not modern Jeep drivers ever have to dash across a field or climb a craggy boulder, they feel like they can, and that’s what matters. But with all the charming pros of consistency, there is also a downside. 

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler has joined a long list of killer off-road SUVs that are trying to capitalize on the off-roaders of yesterday. The Ford Bronco, Land Rover Defender, and Jeep Gladiator are only a small handful that fit into that camp. For all the rugged charm and consistency of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler, there are still the same four major problems that all Wranglers have suffered from.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler has a rough ride

Consumer Reports has yet again gone in on the Jeep Wrangler. Since 2010, Consumer Reports has given the Jeep Wrangler failing grades every single time. What’s funny is that the same issues make it fail, too. The 2021 Jeep Wrangler is no expectation.

The steering is described as being “vague,” like literally every Jeep before it. Wranglers aren’t made for taking corners. They are blocky, surprisingly heavy, and tall. None of these factors are ideal for taking corners with any kind of speed. CR says that though it was gaingly on the track, it did stay surprisingly secure. However, the only way to maintain this security is by taking things nice and slow. The 2021 Jeep Wrangler is still just a Jeep, so that’s really the only option anyway. 

The ride itself is rough and bumpy. Again, this is what Jeeps have always done. These SUVs can be covered in leather, Bluetooth, and power windows all they want, but they just aren’t comfortable in any way. It’s not what Jeep does. 

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler has removable doors and roof, and that will always be loud

One of the Wrangler’s most iconic features is the Lego-like removable doors and roof. These features are what have made Jeeps such a beacon of joy for many over its long history. Again, with all things Jeep, which makes it good for one thing, makes it suffer for another. All those seams and seals that line the roof and doors are all places that can’t be insulated for sound, like normal roofs and doors. The Jeep wranglers, whether soft top or hard top, are loud. Road and wind noise pours in through every crack and seam. 

Jeeps are rarely grandparent friendly

Getting in and out of the 2021 Wrangler can be tricky work without practice. The running boards, which give easier access, are still a high step for most people. For people with leg or hip issues, that step can be a daunting one.

The shape and design of the doors can feel a bit awkwardly shaped at times. Luckily, the roof comes off, and that offers the roll bars as an easy way to pull yourself into the driver’s seat. Lastly, once inside, you will find there is no left-foot rest. In most cars, this isn’t that big of a deal, but for an off-roader, this footrest can really help stabilize the driver when the terrain gets hairy. 

It still gets the same fuel economy as a house

The Jeep Wrangler has always been thirsty. I mean, it’s a giant square rolling down the road. The 2021 Jeep Wrangler must be the least aerodynamic vehicle ever to bless the roads. It’s not only the shape; the low-geared transmission and the weight also play a big role in this atrocious fuel economy. On the highway, the 2021 3.6-V6 Wrangler is getting 24 mpg on the highway, 13 mpg in town, and 18 mpg overall. When you compare this to full-size pickups with V8s getting around the same mpg, you start to realize that the Jeep isn’t very efficient in that department. 

Jeeps gonna be Jeeps next week

Some of these issues can certainly get frustrating after a while, but there is something nice about knowing exactly what you’ll get out of a Wrangler. They are what they are. You are either about it, or you aren’t. Jeep seems fine with either stance.