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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  Love my Jeep - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By Kent - September 9 - 10:00 am

  As my title says, I love my Jeep Wrangler Sport 4 door. Am not an off roader but instead needed a rugged vehicle with 4 wheel drive capability. This vehicle is fantastic and will go through almost anything mother nature throws at it. The four doors make it very convenient and the extra space in back is well appreciated. Gas mileage is decent although could be a little better. Highly recommend the Wrangler 4 door.

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  wicked awesome! - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By deliveryboy1 - September 8 - 1:53 am

  My 3rd Jeep. Ive owned 2 Cherokees and Im loving my wrangler. Nothing stops it, snow, rain, mud. I live in nh and we get a bunch of snow and I go out to drive in it for fun! Aint great when it comes to fuel economy, but what do you expect from a 4k Pound square going down the road. Mine is stock and still keeps up with friends who have lift kits when off road.

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  REALLY WANTED TO LIKE IT BUT.. - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Anthony - September 6 - 7:43 pm

  Bought the Jeep thinking it would be a tough, fun, dependable vehicle. It turned out anything but. Many problems, several of which the dealer wont warranty. Shakes and gets "death wobble" over bumps which is very scary and makes the vehicle undriveable. I really wanted to like this vehicle but the build quality is just too poor. On the plus side the top and doors come off, but the fun is defeated by the poor build and scary ride.

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  BEEP BEEP IN A JEEP - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Detroit mudder - September 6 - 11:36 am

  I LOVE MY JEEP ME AND MY BUDDIES GO MUDDIN ALL THE TIME AND MY CHEVY LUMINA JUST WOULDNT KEEP UP. SO I FIGURED THAT I WAS TIME TO BYE A JEEP. SO I BOUGHT A WRANGLER.

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  Jeep wrangler sport 04 - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By D.SORENSEN - September 3 - 8:46 pm

  I love this car so much. Its so much fun. To sell this car will be a very sad day. With the amount of driving I do I need something a little more economical. It has been the best car I have ever owned.

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  It is a Jeep thing, and I understand. - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By FireCaptain - September 3 - 10:00 am

  I have the 99 Sport with pretty much every option on it, including both tops. The list price was about $26,000. In addition, Ive added a 3 inch Teraflex lift and 33x10.5 BFGs on stock rims. The only problem I have had is the dash guages go dead now and them, but you pop the instrument cluster with your hand, and they come back. This is my 2nd Jeep (first was a Cherokee, also bought new and lifted) and if you take care of them, they will take care of you. No real problems to date.

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  Remember Why & What Youre Buying - 2002 Jeep Wrangler
  By onemansopinion - September 3 - 10:00 am

  I have envied the Jeep for off road abilities while my wife envied driving to the beach sans top. We both had a crush on this vehicle since our early driving days. This 2002 Sahara will be a third "car" for around town open air driving. Regarding performance, this is not a high performance engine. The automatic is very slow out of the gates and the engine is very thirsty. Be prepared to spend money on gas. The front seats are surprisingly comfortable while the second row bench is still best suited for pre-teens. This vehicle is a blast to drive. Cruising in the sunshine listening to Jimmy Buffet is exactly what we envisioned it to be.

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  Fix the DAMM!!! Top - 2014 Jeep Wrangler
  By Hal - August 31 - 9:27 pm

  There has been nothing but leaks since they came out with the T-Tops just read all the forums with people having major problems with their hardtops. Jeep knows about the leak problems but still they refuse to do anything about it yet they still continue to put out T-Tops that leak. Hey Jeep give the customer a choice of a soft top,T-Top, or a one piece solid top. I just purchased a 2014 and nothing but leaks and its been in the shop four times for leaks. This is my fourth jeep with a T-Top and I would have thought that by now Jeep would have taken care of the problem. Very disappointed in their quality control especially Jeep is to dam cheap to fix the problem instead of turning out Jeeps that continue to leak from the piece of crap T-Top. VERY disappointed in the product.

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  THERE IS ONLY ONE...CHOICE THAT IS - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By Lava Flows - August 31 - 2:26 pm

  I have NEVER been so happy with a vehicle as I am with my Jeep - I have driven every SUV, van, sports car you can think of - but this jeep is just simply the most fun EVER to drive - I love that it requires the driver to "get used to it" because it sets it apart - kinda like it DEMANDS the driver to re-learn driving - and its cool to get nods and honks from other wrangler owners - kinda like joining a frat - ITS A JEEP THING - YOU WOULDNT UNDERSTAND - for the summer its great - you drop the top - for the winter - you laugh at snow - drop it in 4 wheel and go!

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  I take the LONG way home now!!!!! - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By orrelse - August 30 - 2:00 am

  This was my first Wrangler so naturally I was apprehensive about the ride quality and the noise, but Im pleasantly surprised at both. The interior is very comfortable and everything is laid out nicely. The ride is a little rough, but better than I expected. The soft top can be noisy at high speeds but for its purpose it is suitable. The engine is the 2.4L I4 and lacks any real get up and go for lots of highway driving, but for city driving it is powerful enough. If I were to do it over again, Id buy the 6 cyl. model. Otherwise, like the title says, I intentionally find the long way home now--anything to spend more time driving my Jeep!!