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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  Jumped tooo fast !! - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By C Cherry - June 9 - 2:00 am

  Fell in LOVE with the four door Jeep...hunted 3 months before I found 1 I liked and affordable. Four door has come along way for Jeeps-however IT IS STILL A "SUV" JEEP, NO comfort - particularly on long trips. Back seats sit straight up with No adjustments, doors swing open, lights are not auto, TEST DRIVE - LIVE in it for 24 hours first. It is a GREAT size and a looker but NO comfort!

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  leaking roof electrical problems - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Skip Bosworth - June 7 - 10:46 am

  I traded my 05 Wrangler for the 08 Wrangler in Oct 07. I like the way it handles and being a Jeep owner for 40 years I appreciate the comfort. Im very disappointed in the roof leaking. I have given up on the dealers attempts to resolve the problem after three repairs its worse than ever. I had to remove the carpeting and replace the front seat covers because of water damage. I have electrical problems resulting in the vehicle not starting, leaving me stranded 25 miles in the back woods.The jeep dealership has been unable to find the problem. I already have over 50000 miles on the car and have spent lots of money attempting to resolve the problems. I wish Id keep my 05 Jeep.

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  Very impressed - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Sammboni - June 7 - 9:10 am

  Ive had my 2007 Unlimited Sahara for almost 2 weeks and it totally rocks and I havent even been able to take the top off yet. I am impressed by the drive, the low noise and it looks great. I am looking forward to some muddy adventures and for the day when the weather gets better and I can take the top off.

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  Finally bought a Wrangler - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By Doug - June 2 - 2:56 am

  I have been wanting a Wrangler since the beginning of 2009, but held off because I expected significant changes to the 2010 Wrangler. The rumor of the Penstar engine was already circulating, plus I was hoping for other surprises. I broke down and shelled out 30K for the 2010 Wrangler Sahara with side seat airbags and every other option you can get. I totally love the vehicle! I do not understand the critics or the people who complain about the ride and performance on the road. The Wrangler is an American icon and I read somewhere that the Wrangler is like a penguin, “awkward on land, but a bullet in the water”. Wrangler may be a little awkward on the road, but a bullet off road.

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  bring back the islander - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By manasquanbenny - June 1 - 10:00 am

  This is my second wrangler, had a 90 Islander previously. No other vehicle is as versatile or fun to drive, especially summertime with doors off. Perfect for carrying my boards to the beach. this vehicle is not for everyone though, I commute 90 miles a day in it, wind is loud on the highway when I have the soft doors on. Gas mileage isnt that bad, I get close to 20mpg.

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  Serious off-road performance - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By tylerdurden - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Out of the box, the best performing off- roading SUV available.

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  best Ive ever had - 2000 Jeep Wrangler
  By Eric - May 31 - 10:30 am

  This has been the best vehicle I have ever had, hands down. I had always wanted a Jeep, and finally I just went ahead and got one. After two years plus, Ive never regretted it, even for a second. Its incredibly fun to drive, very reliable, versatile, and stylish. I have the solar yellow Sport model with the 5 speed transmission (definitely recommended). Ive replaced the factory soft top with an aftermarket Sailcloth top from Bestop (also recommended), and during the summer I use a safari bikini top and duster. Theres nothing better in the world than having a convertible in the summer thats also a go-anywhere winter vehicle. I dont think Ill ever have another vehicle again.

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  best jeep ever!!! - 1993 Jeep Wrangler
  By Ziggs - May 29 - 10:00 am

  the jeep yj is the best SUV ever made

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  Truely a - 1998 Jeep Wrangler
  By Nick Valentine - May 29 - 10:00 am

  My jeep wrangler is the most versitile vehicle that I have ever owned. It preforms well on road, and exceptionally well off-road. Whether the road is flooded, snow-covered, or just thick mud, I have been able to travel down it. Were ever I go, I am honestly able to say that I have complete confidence that I will get to my destination in a Jeep Wrangler.

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  Unlimited II - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Figgy1094 - May 26 - 10:00 am

  This is my 2nd Unlimited and my 4th Jeep. I love it. The 1st Unlimited met w/an untimely death by a drunk driver 5 days after i bought it. It was hit on the drivers side door and took quite a hit. It saved my life. I "only" suffered a lacerated spleen & 3 broken ribs. If I still had my old 1/2 doors on my Jeep I might not have been here to enjoy my 2nd Unlimited, which I have had for a month now. I have put 2000 miles on it, took a trip to Disney World (it had a great time), and found the tallest "hill" in Miami and took it. Once again, love it, saved my life once, love the extra room, its what I always wanted in my Wrangler.