If you’re interested in purchasing a Jeep, there is one important question you must answer: hardtop or soft top? Because there are many benefits to owning either a hardtop or a soft top, choosing between them is often a tough decision for many aspiring Jeep owners. To help you determine which option is best suited for you and your lifestyle, consult this helpful guide to choosing between a hardtop vs a soft top Jeep.
Is durability a priority?
When choosing between a hard and a soft-top Jeep, it’s important to consider what you will be using it for. If you are just planning on driving your Jeep during your morning commute and on the occasional errand, durability may not be a top priority. However, if you plan to go on frequent off-roading adventures, it is likely more advantageous to choose a top that can take a beating.
For those who prioritize durability, a hardtop Jeep is by far the better option. It goes without saying that hard ops are much stronger than soft tops. As such, they will generally last a lot longer and be able to withstand greater damage than soft tops which can tear more easily.
How big is your budget?
Another important consideration to keep in mind when trying to decide whether to purchase a hardtop or a soft-top Jeep is your budget. Typically, hardtop Jeeps are considerably more expensive than their soft-top counterparts.
In many cases, hardtops will cost several thousands of dollars due to their high-quality materials and the additional capabilities that they provide. On the other hand, soft tops can cost as low as $200. As such, if you’re on a tight budget or would rather spend your money on different mods, opting for a soft-top Jeep may be the best move.
Do you plan on taking the top off a lot?
Many people enjoy taking the top off their Jeep so that they can soak up the sun and enjoy the breeze while they drive. If you’re one of those people, a soft-top may be the best option. Due to their lightweight, soft tops are easy to remove and put back on. Plus, they can be folded up and stored in the trunk for optimum portability.
Hardtops, on the other hand, are heavy and difficult to remove without help. That being said, purchasing a hardtop removal tool can make the process of removing and storing your hardtop a lot easier.
Do you require a lot of storage?
Storage is another factor to consider when deciding between a hardtop vs a soft top Jeep. For those that require more storage space, a hardtop may be more advantageous. Hardtops give Jeep owners the ability to install a roof rack which greatly increases the vehicle’s storage potential. By installing a roof rack on the hardtop, drivers can easily store larger items such as kayaks, bikes, camping equipment, or other types of sizable gear. However, if you’re content with the trunk space that a Jeep offers, a soft top should suffice.
Van Rundell is a writer and author who specializes in transportation, travel, guidance, health & fitness. With over 10 years of experience in the industry as a driver and an entrepreneur, he has seen it all. His tone is professional but friendly with a dash of humor thrown in for good measure. In past, he has been advising, educating and writing about transport for the public and professionals alike.
A qualified fitness instructor with over 5 years’ experience as a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, Van brings his deep knowledge of health and exercise science to his articles on health & fitness.
