Reasons To Choose a Convertible Jeep for Your Next Ride
Jeep has been an iconic vehicle on roads for decades, and one of those reasons has been thanks to their removable hardtop and soft top, making the Jeep Wrangler a convertible SUV. While the open top is a draw for many drivers, it’s not the only rationale behind purchasing a Wrangler. Learn all reasons to choose a convertible Jeep for your next ride and the differences between the Jeep hardtop and soft top to decide which one is right for you.
Rides Well
It’s no secret that Jeeps can handle bumpy roads and inclement weather thanks to their legendary traction, clearance, and maneuverability. Jeeps ride smoothly on- and off-road because of their four-wheel drive, suspension systems, and limited-slip rear differential.
Drive Through Anything
If you’re an off-roading enthusiast, you’ve surely seen a plethora of Jeeps on the trail. This is because they can drive through almost anything due to their sealed electrical systems, high air intake, and skid plates that protect the undercarriage.
Plenty of Room
Jeeps have plenty of interior space, too. They have sizeable trunks and back seats that fold down to give you even more space for cargo. When the seats are upright, there’s still room for you and your passengers to be comfortable.
Versatile
Will you use your Jeep for everyday driving or tackling off-road terrain? Jeeps are versatile, making them a great choice for a range of drivers. They can fit several passengers and their cargo because of the spaciousness of the interior. Plus, they’re great vehicles for camping and exploring the outdoors, thanks to the many Jeep accessories available for enhancing performance.
Many Features
There are also tons of features offered by the Jeep Wrangler and its many different models. Depending on what your needs are, you can find a model that offers as many amenities as you like to improve your Jeep’s performance or cabin comfort.
Easy Maintenance
Jeep is well-known for simple repairs and upkeep. Why? They don’t need any special procedures to complete maintenance like oil changes or changing the brake pads, for example. Jeeps are very affordable when it comes to maintenance.
Easy To Drive
If you’re looking for an SUV that delivers easy handling, look no further than any of the Jeep Wrangler models. Drivers remark on the drivability for both on- and off-roading, making driving a pleasure in either situation. The short wheelbase makes it easier to turn into tight spaces, and the high clearance makes tackling terrain a breeze.
Capability
Jeep is known for creating some of the most capable off-roading models straight off the assembly line. You can find several Jeep Wrangler models that are off-road-ready, thanks to components like skid plates, tow hooks, and all-terrain tires.
Affordable Value
Despite your budget, Jeep offers models in a range of prices that can make them affordable. Even if you can’t afford the car payment for an off-road-ready Jeep brand new, you can upgrade by adding Jeep accessories over the years. And Jeeps are long-lasting, meaning buying a used Jeep can be a great option as well.
Jeep Culture
Owning a Jeep is more than owning an SUV. You’ll find other like-minded individuals who are devotees to the lifestyle that Jeep ownership encapsulates. It’s an iconic symbol of an adventurous persona and the unlimited freedom it delivers to take you off the everyday path and explore the wilderness.
The only problem you’ll have is deciding between a hardtop or a soft top.
Soft Top vs. Hardtop
One of the best reasons to choose a convertible Jeep for your next ride is your ability to choose between a hardtop or soft top. Both are removable and deliver the thrill of going topless on a warm day, and both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of a Jeep Soft Top
There are a few advantages of choosing a soft top for your Jeep Wrangler:
Installation
A flexible textile, like canvas and plastic, creates a Jeep soft top, making them easy to install and remove with very little effort. In no time, you can have your Jeep top off and ready to go.
Storage
Storage is simple, thanks to the flexible fabric. You can fold them up and store them in any small space in your garage or in the vehicle.
Convenience
Because of their easy installation and storage, soft tops are convenient, too. If you’re out with the top off and bad weather pops up, you can put the top back on in an instant.
Disadvantages of a Soft Top
It could seem like soft tops are the best choice, but there are a few drawbacks:
Damaged Easily
The malleable material might make a soft top more convenient, but it doesn’t make it very durable. Generally, soft tops won’t last as long as hardtops.
Cold in Winter
If you live in an area that sees the temperatures drop in the winter, a soft top isn’t the best choice for insulation. The cold air can seep through despite the heat being on, and snow can break through if enough falls.
Vulnerable
Soft tops also can’t provide enough security since someone could easily break in. Keeping valuables out of sight helps, but that might not be enough of a deterrent.
Advantages of a Hardtop
A hardtop Jeep means you still have the advantages of a convertible in the summer and an SUV in the winter:
Durable
Hardtops are much more durable than soft tops because they can withstand damage that would break a soft top, like hail or heavy snowfall.
Insulation
A hardtop provides more insulation in the winter and in the summer when the heat might be too intense to enjoy with the top off. It also provides more security than a soft top.
Roof Rack
A hardtop also gives you the ability to add storage space, like a rack for your bike or even a kayak. You can even find some modifications that allow for easier camping with a roof-top tent.
Disadvantages of a Hardtop
There aren’t many, but there are a few pitfalls to a Jeep hardtop:
Costly To Replace
Even though hardtops last longer than soft tops, they’re expensive to replace if you need to. If you plan to own your Wrangler for a long time, the day might come when you need to find a new hardtop. But regular maintenance with protective trim can keep them looking like new.
Storage
Hardtops aren’t as easy to store as soft tops. You need to find a safe place in your garage for them, and they could be vulnerable to scuffs and scratches.
Removal
Removing hardtops isn’t as simple, either. They can be difficult to remove and put back on, and you generally need two people. But there is a solution from Top Lift Pros that can make hardtop removal and storage effortless.