No vehicle is more instantly recognizable throughout the world than the Jeep Wrangler. That remains true in spite of the fact that nearly every body panel was redesigned for 1997 for a softer, gentler appearance. But the open fenders, flip-down windshield, big grille, plastic side curtains and exposed hinges and fasteners are still there, giving the Wrangler that rugged, no-nonsense look that has appealed to us for nearly 60 years.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, and if a screwdriver is handy, the windshield can be flipped down for breezy, low-speed touring in the back country. We still prefer the optional hard top ($920 on SE and Sport, $1,160 on Sahara) because of its practicality. The hard top provides more security for expensive gear; I get uncomfortable leaving camera equipment or fly rods and reels protected only by fabric and clear plastic. The hard top also offers better protection from weather. It comes with full-height doors and wind-up windows. I felt dry and secure while driving one through a violent thunderstorm at dawn. Rearward visibility is aided by the rear-window defroster, wiper and washer. Wind noise is greatly reduced. The top can be removed and stored when not in use. For those who want the best of both worlds, Jeep offers a package that includes both hard top and soft top in matching colors. Either top is far easier to remove or install than tops of years past and provides much better sealing from the elements.
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