Sometimes a manufacturer churns out a base trim that is — all things considered — the primo choice for that particular model. Here’s an example.

Jeep, especially the Wrangler, tends to evoke a visceral response from both fans and haters alike. Nevertheless, barring the original Volkswagen Beetle and Mini Cooper, few vehicles exist that so solidly own a certain body style as much as the Wrangler. Say “Jeep” to just about anyone, even if they care not about cars, and they’ll likely conjure the image above.

In base form, dubbed ‘Sport’ by some shrewd, pencil-necked marketers, the Wrangler offers up Chrysler’s now ubiquitous Pentastar V6, which powers everything from rear-drive Chargers to front-drive minivans. Delivering near-as-makes-no-difference 300 horsepower, the engine is lashed to a six-speed manual that’s a fine choice for everyone except extreme rock crawlers. For the Moab set, automatics are king. For the rest of us, Save the Manuals and skip the $1,350 automatic.

For better or worse, Jeep is FCA’s sales powerhouse, and pricing the base Wrangler a few shades under $25,000 undoubtedly contributes to this endeavor. Helping capture conquest buyers is an interior that no longer resembles a monk’s cave, equipped as it is with decent cloth seats and a tilt steering column. Don’t worry, purists; there’s still no headliner at this price.

The hue shown here is the $0 Firecracker Red, chosen because it stands out in a crowd and I like the name. Jaunty greens and blues are also on offer for $0. Sixteen inch on/off-road tires, fog lamps, and Dana front and rear axles are all standard. Optional Freedom Tops and Frontal Masks sound like big fun until you realize they’re only for use on the vehicle, so we’ll pass.

Sure, the Rubicon has a better 4×4 setup and gnarly 17-inch off-road tires. However, by choosing the base model and saving $10,000, you can roll to your nearest aftermarket shop with a shopping list and a wad of cash. Ten large buys a lot of off-road equipment.

And if you think this Ace of Base instalment is controversial, wait until you see the next one: it’s a $50,000 SUV.

Not every base model has aced it. The ones which have? They help make the automotive landscape a lot better. Any others you can think of, B&B? Let us know in the comments. Naturally, feel free to eviscerate our selection.

The model above is shown in American dollars with American options and trim — apple pie and bald eagles not included. As always, your dealer may sell for less.