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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  Better than the new ones - 1995 Jeep Wrangler
  By goofyfoot - December 13 - 5:36 pm

  Previously had a 2001, this one rides a little rougher, but the simplicity and better mileage make it much better in almost every other regard. And so inexpensive to purchase as well. I hope to keep driving it for a long time since you cant get a car like this anymore.

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  Rides great but engine shut off once - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Peter - December 2 - 12:46 pm

  Ive owned a couple of Wranglers over the years and the 4 door is by far the best version so far. Rides great and turns heads. Family of four, we traded in the minivan. Softtop is fine in the winter, no need for the hardtop. I noticed another review where the owner indicated the engine shut down while in driving mode. This happened to me once on the highway at 65mph. The console lit up, the gauges went wild, and then the engine cut off. It fired back up after a few moments but I had an 18 wheeler behind me and a pucker factor of ten. It seems to be an electrical problem as the engine was running normally prior to the event. Look for a recall soon at a dealership near you.

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  Love this thing - 2002 Jeep Wrangler
  By ksimon - November 26 - 10:00 am

  My first jeep. Bought it used but youd never know it to look at it or drive it. I love this thing. Flame red is about as attractive a color as Ive seen. Far more comfortable to drive then my "non jeep" friends warned me it would be. For the first time in my life I am anxiously awaiting a huge snow storm.

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  Drivers would be surprised! - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By CofCortez - November 26 - 10:00 am

  The new 2003 Jeep X is a great value and will surprise many people how smooth and comfortable the ride is. The X has excellent power and smooth shifting from the Automatic transmission. I have taken it across Baja and down the Pacific coast and have encountered more than a few 4- wheel drive opportunities; the X shines in the sand and dirt as well as driving the LA freeways! The interior layout is very functional and, so far, everything is working fine (air, lights, stereo, etc...) Get one!

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  Most legal fun you can have - 1998 Jeep Wrangler
  By J1E9E9P8 - November 23 - 12:03 am

  Jeep wave says it all. You are part of a family of out going people who just like having a good time enjoying life. Always changing to suit my needs because I enjoy buying things to make my Jeep a one off creation. Fun to drive, easy to park. Top up, top down, rear window out or all button up with the a/c on. Ever changing with my mood.

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  Feels "cheaper" - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Steve - November 19 - 1:43 am

  This is my second Wrangler (3rd Jeep - we had a Grand Cherokee in between). The first was a 99 2.4. There seems to be a lot more plastic on the 05. Why? It was perfect before. Obviously, you are either a Jeep driver or you arent. My only criticisms relate to the "improvements" Jeep has made over the past several years. Strip it back down! My new Jeep has the headlight switch on the steering column and a more complex back seat removal. Theres a lot less storage in the center console. I also miss the front seat airbag shut-off. Why did they mess with perfection? I will admit, the six speed is a little nicer on the freeway. Overall, I wish Id kept the 99. Still, better than the Grand Cherokee.

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  Lots of fun - 2001 Jeep Wrangler
  By brehardt - November 8 - 2:00 am

  I have owned a Jeep Wrangler for almost 3 years now. I have not had one problem with this vehicle and it has not had to go into the shop for anything other than routine maintenance. I feel that I can go just about anywhere with this vehicle. Can handle most any terrain. No worries about getting stuck. I would recommend a Wrangler to anyone. Things you have to know before purchasing: low gas mileage, noisy interior on the road, a bit of a rough ride. All these are to be expected though.

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  Toy Jeep - 1992 Jeep Wrangler
  By ski-nh - November 7 - 10:00 am

  Jeep is driven year round as second vehicle. Off road occasionally. Purchased with 75000 miles and has run perfectly since with normal maintenance.

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  a timeless classic - 2013 Jeep Wrangler
  By britqueen - November 2 - 4:59 pm

  Ive owned this car for a year without any problems and its been a fun to drive. I wish it had keyless start and the upgraded infotainment system they put in the new Jeep Grand Cherokees. Otherwise, I love the off road capabilities and the after market modifications that can be done. I plan to own this vehicle for many, many years and so far no major problems at all!

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  Best of the best - 1994 Jeep Wrangler
  By jeepster17257 - November 1 - 10:00 am

  I love this vehicle