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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  Jeep Comfort - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By NJelectrk1 - April 28 - 12:56 pm

  I understand this is a jeep and its rugged and tough and can go almost anywhere. In fact that is the reason i purchased it in the first place.That said however, Im not sure what the people at jeep were thinking with a rock hard console cover and door armrest.come on a little comfort while taking this beast off road would be greatly appreciated by all.what could it actually cost to include a console like the Tuffy aftermarket. just a little bit of refinement would go a long way. sore elbows take away the fun of driving

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  X-Factor: Why I love my Jeep! - 2002 Jeep Wrangler
  By Zaks Dad - April 23 - 10:00 am

  Had my X for 1.5 yrs now, and still love the bugger! It is fast, nimble, goes over any obstacle, and parks like a Geo! A Tonka Toy that I drive every day, it is most high on the grin factor. Must haves: full steel doors, with real windows, premium sound, good sunglasses for top-down enjoyment! I have the 3.73 gearing option, and it launches like a jackrabbit. Only thing I wish Id gotten was ABS. This is the best convertible/truck/toy/go- anywhere vehicle ever! Ive owned musclecars, foreign sports cars, trucks, and various other vehicles, but nothing has turned my crank like this Jeep. I fall in love all over again every single day!

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  2012 Wrangler Sahara Unlimited Auto - 2012 Jeep Wrangler
  By tj65 - April 22 - 4:11 pm

  I took delivery of my new 2012 4 door Sahara Automatic about 3 weeks ago. I have about 1000 miles on it and the vehicle is fantastic. Jeep has really done a great job with this car. It is quiet, smooth riding and responsive. The new 6 cyl is the best thing Jeep could have done for this vehicle. I have had 2 jeeps previously (98 and 07) and this one is by far the best put together Wrangler. My mileage is about what the sticker says----16 city and 20 mpg on the highway. My advice to anyone who reads this review is test drive the vehicle youself. Most of the reviews by the so called experts give the Wrangler a BAD rap. Try it yourself and ignore the so called experts!!!

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  Dragon Edition Wrangler Unlimited 2014 - 5 Speed Automatic - 2014 Jeep Wrangler
  By yellowrubi - April 19 - 10:02 pm

  I was reluctant to trade my 2012 Wrangler 2 door for the Dragon Edition but my family wanted the comfort and convenience of the 4 door and, after all, I would still have a wrangler. After a few weeks and a few hundred miles I can honestly say that it was a great decision. The ride is better than the 2 door on the highway. This Jeep has an upgraded suspension and gets more attention than even my "Crush" 2 door. The 18" wheels get lots of looks too. The creature comforts are easy to get used to and the MPG remains 22+ on my 25 mile round trip daily drive. Great room and new folding back seats are great. Of course I added my Warn winch bumper to the front.

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  My Jeep Wrangler - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Whitney Mills - April 17 - 2:00 am

  Its a very very nice car sporty looking and fun to drive and jsut ride out with friends in !

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  Great for what it does. - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By jimmywalker - April 17 - 2:00 am

  This is THE BEST offroad vehicle stock, period. I wish it had a bit of a lift and a little wider tires, but I can understand that lawyers are involved. But its a great platform to build on with stock lockers, Dana44 axles, beefy transfer case, etc. Make no mistake, this is built for offroad, so it wont ride like a minivan. Lots of the features are for offroad only. (For the guy who "broke" his lockers...never, never, never, never use the lockers on-road. Ever. The fact that you have to shift into 4Low and not driving faster than 10mph should be a clue they were intended for rock crawling, not grocery getting).

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  Awesome Vehicle ! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Gymshark - April 14 - 1:06 pm

  This is my second Wrangler first was a 1995..sold it and now bought a 2007 with only 12,000 miles. The Wrangler is my weekend fun machine. The ride is comfy and stereo is awesome. The top is way easy to drop and put up. I upgraded the wheels and tires, not the suspension because it doesnt need it in my opinion. I dont extreme off road. The new design is by far the best because its still looks the same just bigger and better than previous years.

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  NEVER BRAKE DOWN OR GET STUCK - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
  By 4xfun - April 9 - 10:00 am

  if you want a car that will always get you where you want to go buy a wrangler. get a 4.0 it has a stronger engine. I have alittle over 96k miles and the engine is still going strong, Its never had engine problems.if you cant deal with a bumpy ride dont by an suv,because jeep is the grandfather of the suvs. Fun in the winter(4x4 in the snow) and fun in the summer top down and doors off buy hard top and an after market soft top (best top) because it comes with full metal doors

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  mattman - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
  By mattman - April 9 - 10:00 am

  I purchased this vehicle two years ago from the original owner with 74,000 miles. It runs great and has given me no problems. I have all of the records since I purchased the vehicle regarding oil changes, etc. It is alot of fun to drive, especially with the top down. During the cold winter months, the heater works great!

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  Best Decision Ive Ever Made! - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By ABaker - April 5 - 10:00 am

  People tried to discourage me. My dad said it was unsafe, my mom worried, friends said it was not practical. I AM SO GLAD I did NOT listen! I have never had so much fun!!! It is VERY versatile and can haul a lot. Its been to the beach, camping & highway driving EVERY day. It really has been fun. It came with a hard top, but I bought a soft top and I cannot imagine putting the hard back on. The soft top is so versatile and fun. It stays off all weekend. AND it is NOT that hard to manage. I think the Editors reviews were too harsh-- sound like a dads review! ENJOY IT