Discover the Different Top Options for the Jeep Wrangler

Breakdown of the Different Aspects of Each Jeep Wrangler Top Option


Ease of Removal & ReplacementCost
Security         
Road NoiseRear Wiper,
Washer & Defroster		Requires Storage
When Removed?
Soft TopEasyNo Cost Standard EquipmentVery LowLoudestNoNo
Premium Soft TopEasyLowVery LowLoudNoNo
Hard TopEasy for Freedom Panels
Complex for Total Removal		Low for Hard top
Medium for Dual Top
High for Painted Dual Top		GoodMediumYesYes
Power Sky TopEasyHighGoodMediumYesDo not remove

Soft Top (Standard and Premium):  Fastest Way to Open-Air Riding

What's the difference between the standard soft top and the premium soft top? Click here

Wrangler Premium Soft Top OpenWrangler Premium Soft Top

Wrangler Premium Soft Top Shown

Key Soft Top Advantages:

  • Lowest cost option
  • Easy on and off
  • Open only the front in a few seconds
  • Enjoy the full top-down experience without tools
  • It goes with you, you can go put the top up and down as needed while it stays attached to the Jeep
  • Versatility-half down, Sunrider position, Top up with rear side and tailgate windows removed, the Soft top adapts to your mood and the elements

Key Disadvantages:

  • Noisiest option-although the premium top is a bit quieter
  • Less protection from outside elements
  • Plastic windows need care or will scratch
  • Limited security from thieves
  • Access to the cargo area is a little difficult when the top is down, and the soft windows take up storage room if you take them with you

Hard Top:

Best all-around option if you want to use your Jeep year-round and not go through the hassle of changing tops. The main item to consider when thinking, "Should I buy a soft top or a hard top?", is the all season aspect to the Jeep Wrangler Hard Top.

 Wrangler Standard Hard Top Wrangler Body Color Hard Top

Standard Hard Top Left, Body-Color Hard Top Right

Key Hard Top Advantages:

  • Solid top provides greater protection from elements
  • Rear window wiper/washer and defroster provided
  • Provides greater security and safety compared to the Soft Top
  • Allows removal of the Freedom Top panels for the open-air experience
  • Better interior temperature control with top on
  • Availability of a Mopar headliner to add insulation for sound and heat
  • Durable-won't wear out and windows won't scratch easily
  • Option of adding aftermarket roof rack systems for kayaks, etc

Key Disadvantages:

  • Removing the Freedom Panels gives you an open-air feeling, but it's not quite the same as having the top completely removed
  • Removing the hard top takes some time, and you need a place to store it
  • It takes two people to install and remove

Sky Top-One-Touch Power Top

Hybrid solution with the best of the Soft and Hard Top with few compromises.

 Wrangler Sky Top Open Wrangler Sky Top Close

Sky Top Roof Option Shown

Key Sky Top Advantages:

  • Rear side panels can be removed and the top fully opens, giving a feeling very close to having no top at all
  • It's great for people with physical limitations.  It's the first Wrangler anyone can open up with ease
  • Vehicle can be secured
  • Rear window wiper/washer is standard
  • Top matches the body color, to give your Jeep a sleek appearance

Key Disadvantages:

  • Although it comes close, it's not quite the same as completely removing the top
  • Rear tailgate window is not removable
  • It's the most expensive option

    • Dual Top:

    Best all-around versatility if you don't mind the work of changing the tops.

    Key Dual Top Advantages:

    • You get the benefits of having both tops so you can maximize the use and function of your Wrangler





    Key Disadvantages:

    • Cost: It can be expensive, especially if you choose the Dual Top with Painted Hard Top option
    • It takes some time and effort to complete the switchover, which most people do twice a year
    • You need a place to store the top you are not using.  The hard top is large, especially on four-door models

    What's the difference between the Standard Soft Top and the Premium Soft Top on a Wrangler?

    The only difference is the material. The frame and function are identical, but the Standard top has a vinyl type material, while the Premium top has a thicker, canvas-type material. While their are major differences between the Wrangler Soft Top vs Hard Top, the premium and soft versions of the Wrangler share a great deal of similarities.

    Here are some pictures of the two tops. On the left is the interior and exterior of the Standard Soft Top, on the right is the Premium Soft Top.

     

    Jeep Wrangler Roof & Top Options

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    * The advertised price does not include sales tax, vehicle registration fees, other fees required by law, finance charges and any documentation charges.

    * Images, prices, and options shown, including vehicle color, trim, options, pricing and other specifications are subject to availability, incentive offerings, current pricing and credit worthiness.