Overview & Reviews

Perhaps the quintessential niche vehicle, the Jeep Wrangler has held the crown of ultimate affordable off-roader ever since it was first offered to the general public. This SUV's lineage goes back more than 60 years to the original military "Jeep," the legendary 4x4 that transported World War II soldiers and supplies over very rough terrain. Since then, the Wrangler's off-road prowess and tough-guy image have never wavered, but nor has it been the most civilized vehicle on the planet.

Jeep has attempted to make the latest-generation Wrangler more livable, and indeed it boasts an available four-door body style, a more contemporary interior, strong V6 power and added safety and convenience features. But die-hard Jeep enthusiasts shouldn't be too worried. The latest Wrangler stays true to its original purpose of providing rugged off-road capability and distinctive style, with creature comforts a distant third. Love it or hate it, the Wrangler just keeps on marching to its own beat.

Current Jeep Wrangler
The current Wrangler is available in two body styles: a short-wheelbase two-door or the long-wheelbase four-door Unlimited. Both come in bare-bones Sport, midlevel Sahara or hard-core Rubicon trim. Despite the Wrangler's rough-and-tumble image, there are a number of luxury and convenience items available like heated leather seats, automatic climate control, Bluetooth, navigation and an Infinity sound system.

All Jeep Wranglers come with a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Four-wheel drive is also standard and includes high- and low-range gearing. A six-speed manual transmission with hill-start assist is standard, while a five-speed automatic is optional. This engine is quite the revelation, endowing the traditionally ponderous Wrangler with both quick acceleration and decent fuel economy.

In reviews, we've noted that the Wrangler remains the go-to choice among serious off-roaders thanks to its compact dimensions (provided you choose the two-door version), high ground clearance, steep approach and departure angles and no-nonsense four-wheel-drive system with an aggressive low-range function. Even the most basic Wrangler can venture places that most mass-market vehicles could never dream of. The Rubicon furthers those capabilities with extra features such as a special transfer case, knobbier tires and electronic locking differentials.

Make no mistake, though; buying a Wrangler is a commitment. The ride can be jarring, interior noise on the highway can be deafening and handling is poor. With its removable doors, zip-up plastic windows and hose-out interior, the Wrangler may be too rough for many consumers. But the trade-off is worth it for true fans, as nothing else can match the Wrangler's capabilities and iconic image.

Used Jeep Wrangler Models
The current, third-generation Jeep Wrangler debuted for the 2007 model year. It's larger and more refined than the previous generation. Key changes include a stiffer structure and more insulation for a quieter (though still raucous) ride; the introduction of a four-door variant (known as the Wrangler Unlimited); and added power under the hood, with the big bump coming in 2012. Styling is familiar, but although the standard Wrangler retains roughly the same short length as before, its increased width helps to improve passenger comfort.

Until 2012, the only engine available was a 3.8-liter V6 that produced a rather anemic 202 hp and 237 lb-ft of torque. The arrival of the "Pentastar" 3.6-liter V6 put unprecedented pep in the Wrangler's step, and it brought a new five-speed automatic that replaced the four-speed unit offered with the 3.8-liter engine. A rear-drive version of the Unlimited was also available until 2012. Prior to 2011, the Wrangler's cabin featured lower-quality materials and a less visually appealing design. There were fewer luxury and convenience items available, while stability control was not standard.

Another notable change is that the standard vinyl soft top was harder to remove prior to a design tweak implemented for 2010. The Unlimited's roof was improved further for 2013, along with the seats in all Wranglers.

The previous, second generation of the Wrangler bowed in 1997 after a one-year hiatus, and marked a return to the classic Jeep face with its round headlights. It was sold through the 2006 model year. A new dash modestly modernized the cabin upon its debut, while a coil-spring suspension improved on-road comfort. Dual front airbags and the option of antilock brakes made the Wrangler safer, too. Of course, all the ingredients (such as generous ground clearance, skid plates and a crawl gear for the transfer case) that made the original CJ so capable off-road remained.

Base SE (2.5-liter, 120-hp inline-4), Sport (4.0-liter, 190-hp inline-6, fancy wheels and graphics) and Sahara (4.0-liter six, air-conditioning, upgraded upholstery, CD player) trims were offered initially. By 2003, the Wrangler "X" (slotted above the SE and featuring the inline-6) and "Rubicon" (featuring hardcore off-road equipment such as a super-low range in the transfer case, 31-inch tires and locking Dana axles front and rear) trims debuted. Transmission choices included a five-speed manual and three-speed automatic, the latter upgraded to a four-speed unit for 2003.

In 2004, Jeep introduced the Wrangler Unlimited model; it still had only two doors, but a 10-inch wheelbase stretch provided a significant increase in rear legroom and cargo capacity. A Rubicon version of the Unlimited arrived the following year, and a six-speed manual gearbox replaced the five-speed.

In reviews, we praised the second-generation Jeep Wrangler for its off-road agility and personality, but scorned the plastic side windows, fussy soft top and poor fuel economy. We deemed it fair at best for commuter duty, considering the vehicle's loud and busy ride at freeway speeds. After logging some miles in a Rubicon version, we decided its immense off-road capacity was beyond compare, but braking distances (even with ABS) were long, gas mileage was mediocre, and as a daily driver it was simply too harsh and bouncy on the blacktop. The standard, non-Rubicon version of the Wrangler Unlimited had slightly better road manners, thanks to its longer wheelbase and revised suspension tuning.

Consumer feedback on this Wrangler is generally favorable, with most folks enjoying the fun factor despite echoing our sentiments about the annoying soft top and fuel mileage. Reliability is a mixed bag, with a few respondents citing many troubles where others had none.

The first Jeep Wrangler (1986-'95) had square headlights and, on some trims, monochromatic fender flares and rocker panel extensions, the latter an odd "of the times" styling touch on such a retro vehicle. Initially, a choice of a 2.5-liter four or a 4.2-liter six-cylinder engine was offered, and buyers could get a five-speed manual or three-speed automatic. One of the biggest improvements during this generation came for 1991, when a new, 4.0-liter inline-6 with 180 hp replaced the ancient 4.2-liter unit that had just 112 hp. Trim levels during this time ranged from base S through Islander, Sahara and top-of-the-line Laredo and, after 1990, Renegade.

User Reviews:

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  2007 Jeep JK Wrangler Rescue Green - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By skenjr - April 14 - 4:17 am

  I purchased my 07 Jeep JK Wrangler new. It came with a soft top. After 5 years and 105k miles, Ive had relatively few problems. Overall, Ive been very pleased. Its fun to drive, still looks great, & holds its value. My few issues are summarized below: 1.) The highway noise is extreme. To the point, that I cant talk to people in the jeep with me. Its a soft top, so I guess thats expected, and I dont drive on the highway that often. 2.) The soft top leaked above the drivers side door. I took it in and the dealer fixed it. They said the plastic harness warps in the Missouri extreme weather...so they replaced it. 3.) At 100k, its starting to burn oil. No smoke, no leak.

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  Love My Jeep! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By MattAllen10S - April 12 - 8:26 am

  It rocks!! Nothing else to say. OK Maybe a little more. I wish it had a little more pickup but it doesnt need it. The interior does scratch easily but it is beautiful.

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  Offroading - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By James - April 11 - 6:40 am

  I have driven my Rubicon through mud pits, up 50 degree slops, up rock banks after driving through rivers and almost nothing has stopped it. Its gas mileage is miserable compared to my old BMW. I get around 15 miles to the gallon, yet its well worth the trade considering the hauling ability. Removing the back seat I was hauling 70 pumpkins in the back and putting my friends F-250 to shame. The reliability is amazing as well, and it is extremely easy to change the oil and do minor work. I love putting all the Hummer owners to shame when they realize they spent 15,000 more on a vehicle nowhere near as good as my Rubicon.

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  Awsome to drive!! - 1995 Jeep Wrangler
  By Stumpy - April 6 - 10:00 am

  I love my jeep with three exceptions the body still gives out before the engines will and even though the 2.5 will keep up with any 4.3L that chevy puts out it uses a little bit more gas than a 4.3L. with it getting about 16- 20 mpg and the 4.3 getting about 20-22. but the real fun is the 4WD. Noone and i mean no one can keep up with a wranlger/CJ off road out of the factory.

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  rubicon is worth it - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By rubicon8213 - April 6 - 10:00 am

  the rubicon is for hard-core jeep fans only.the extra $5000 is worth it for people who use there jeep off-road but for those who just like the style a sahara will do.

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  Im hooked - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jack - April 4 - 2:53 am

  Im on my third Wrangler now and wont buy anything else. I love the rugged exterior look along with its long history. Theres nothing like taking the top down and doors off. I highly recommend this vehicle. Ive already got my sister-in-law and a co-worker to buy one. There are endless ways to accessorize and personalize your Wrangler to your style. Wranglers are very reliable with vast improvements over the years. Youll never go a day without seeing one on the streets.

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  Its a Jeep! - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By moneyshot - April 1 - 3:46 am

  I purchased a brand new Jeep Wrangler Rubicon for my wife. She loves it and so do I. This thing is incredible in the off road department. It is virtually unstoppable. On the road, it is very nice. I will not be an idiot and compare this vehicle to a Cadillac, or expect this thing to get 100 miles to the gallon, and perform like a Ferrari while doing it. That is not what this vehicle is about. I will say this. The styling of this vehicle is great. The simply stated "RUBICON" words on each side of the hood let people know it isnt a regular 4x4.

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  First Jeep - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By fireguy CO - March 26 - 2:00 am

  This has been the most enjoyable vehicle I have purchased in years. It does great on the highway and performs very well in all traffic situation. Off road it is nearly perfect . So far it has not been stuck or bogged down. We are looking forward to going off road alot more next season. We have installed F and R steel bumpers, purchased a winch & exterior light guards. The last addition to our Rubicon will be a 2"or 3" Skyjacker lift kit.

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  Jeep for fun - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By jpt0001 - March 26 - 2:00 am

  If you want a fun automobile, the Jeep Wrangler Sport is for you. The kids love it. Its fun to drive, and easy to park. It is built like a tank. Sold steel construction, with a sturdy roll bar. Probably one of the safest convertables that you could ever own.

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  Looks good - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Harsh - March 25 - 10:20 am

  I traded a 2006 Mercury Mountaineer for this Jeep when it caught my eye at a used dealership. The four door Jeep looks great but its not built as good as it looks. The 3.8-liter V6 is a bit under powered for a SUV especially on interstate as it shifts in and out of overdrive. When the cruse is set it will very 5 mph before it shifts. I find the seats uncomfortable especially the backseats they set up to straight and with no adjustment. There is not enough storage for small things like glasses or change. I have the hard top with removable "T" type tops and the Jeep is fun to drive on a nice day but I think I would take the Mountaineer back in a minute it had more power w/better fuel econ.