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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  SILVER RUBI - 2009 Jeep Wrangler
  By LR - February 16 - 10:10 pm

  I have owned my silver rubicon for about at year. I love this jeep. I wanted one of these for a few years before I actually made the purchase. Im still in love. Of course the rubi has its quirks, there is not alot of room, and is not great on gas, but the pros outweigh the cons. The rubi will go through anything. The rubi looks sharp. It is fun to drive and a total blast to taking the top off. Bottom line is it is a JEEP. It is not a cadillac or a station wagon.

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  A tough Departure - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By pjc - February 16 - 10:00 am

  3.5 years, 4.0 litre, 5 speed and I always loved it, however, except for traveling at speeds under 40, every passenger sees it as a trial of patience. GREAT offroad, but I have that oppty less than once every two months. It is great for a third car, not a daily driver

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  A tough Departure - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By PJC - February 16 - 10:00 am

  3.5 years, 4.0 litre, 5 speed and I always loved it, however, except for traveling at speeds under 40, every passenger sees it as a trial of patience. GREAT offroad, but I have that oppty less than once every two months. It is great for a third car, not a daily driver

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  Review of Jeep Wrangler - 1993 - 4 cylinder - 1993 Jeep Wrangler
  By wesrick - February 14 - 10:00 pm

  Like the other reviewers have said. Its a Jeep. It can be expensive. But, fixing things and doing regular maintenance right can make your Jeep really last. You must want a Jeep to get one, not just a car. They are not comfortable, they are not cheap, but they are very, very fun. Theres nothing else like it. I am a creature of comfort (also drive a Lexus) however, I cant get rid of the Jeep. Its just too much fun.

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  Jeep Rocks! Best Wrangler Ever! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By JJ - February 14 - 3:23 pm

  This is my 5th Wrangler and its leaps ahead of my last Wrangler, a 2000 Sport that had a higher sticker and less equipment. Im totally impressed with the new exterior and interior design on my X-S, Dark Green, 2DR, soft top. It handles great on the highway, is quiet and the 6 speed manual helps the fuel economy but it could be better. The Daimler quality influence is very evident.

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  The Mud - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By ArmyDoc115 - February 14 - 9:43 am

  I absolutely LOVE my Jeep! This is the 4th Ive owned. The 1st was an 85 CJ. There is nothing like a Jeep. Period. Theyre absolutely a BLAST to drive, they look amazing, get attention everywhere, and the 4.0 6 cyl is unstoppable. If youre concerned about gas mileage, a Wrangler isnt for you. The fun factor and satisfaction of the Jeep is a worthwhile payoff in my book. I average 13 mpg, but I dont care because I LOVE my Jeep. I can haul my Harley in the trailer on the highway. Not fast, but I can do it! Road noise, loud top, stiff ride. So what! Its a Jeep, what do you expect? Its all part of the experience. Unlimited possibilities to customize it and make it YOUR Jeep.

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  This is a great car - 2002 Jeep Wrangler
  By Boulder Wrangler - February 11 - 10:00 am

  I bought my 02 X and then customized. This is a great way to build the perfect offroad vehicle. I love this car--and my kids (3 and 6) love it too- -as does my wife. I have had no problems AT ALL. This car is perfectly designed for what it is-- though probably not for commuters :) The car is unstoppable in snow and is very well balanced. When it slides, it slides well and enhances control. The Jeep X is very low cost and can be easily customized.

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  What a bargain!!! - 2009 Jeep Wrangler
  By What a bargain!!! - February 11 - 4:53 am

  For years I wanted to buy a Wrangler. Every time I went to Hawaii, Id insist we rent one. I finally talked my wife into it. The back seat is much bigger than I remembered. I saved $7500 off sticker and got 0% financing for 4 years. I never thought I would find a deal this sweet. My other car is an 05 Porsche Carrera. Call me crazy, but I have only driven the Porsche once since getting the Jeep. I was planning on giving the Jeep to my son when he turns 16, but well see if that actually happens.

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  yeaaaajeep! - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By jeepfan - February 6 - 3:23 pm

  Just passed 30000 miles on my 03 Wrangler. Trouble free. Says alot because I have owned 2 Accords. It is lousy on gas but, it really makes up for it while your driving it. In 4WD snow is not even a minor inconvenience. Owning a Jeep puts you in your own class. No need to compete with someone else on what kind of car you drive. You drive a Jeep, enough said. Taking the rear seats out allows you to store enough for long trips or vacations. Summer is good with the top down, but, driving in the Fall is even better. On long drives its no Lexus but, if you wanted that ride you may want to get a Lexus. Youll be amazed how quick you get used to roll up windows!

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  Overall Satisfaction - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Rodney - February 6 - 2:06 am

  Im coming out of a Land Rover and with gas prices the way they are this is welcomed relief. Having a 4-door convertible, SUV is amazing. I love it and plan on keeping it. A friend of mind just ordered his because he got tired of just riding in mine. Seriously! My wife jokes with me that everytime I stop at a gas station, to get my salesman hat on so I can answer all the questions I get while getting gas. I get looks from the Ford Focus driver all the way up to the Audi Q7 drivers. Seriously, amazing