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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  Appalled... - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By jrut1 - November 16 - 7:56 pm

  I bought a used Wrangler Rubicon Unlimited with 45k miles. By 65,000 Im totally disgusted. I had planned to drive this thing until it was dead. No idea it would happen so soon. Its a jeep, with the looks and the fun to drive aspect. And thats where it ends. Ive had: - cracked exhaust manifold - o2sensors go out - catalytic converter go out (thank g-d a federal warranty makes these guys fix it!) - radio (xm/Sirius) go out - repeated "hot oil" (transmission) warnings during MILD 4WD - roof leaks I bought this vehicle thinking it would be a rugged, reliable vehicle that would last as long as I kept fluids clean. Whoops. One time buyer...

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  Ive Been Waiting for a Jeep Like This - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Eric in California - November 13 - 5:00 am

  My 97 Wrangler was stolen and I was forced to buy another SUV after a decade of loving my first Jeep. Boy am I glad I rented a car for months waiting for this Jeep to show up in CA. I loved my Jeep and it was tough to lose it, but my pain disappeared almost instantly once I test drove the 07 Wrangler Unlimited Sahara. I was hooked. It was far fancier. I never thought I would get into the comforts of this upgraded model, but they are easy to get used to. Four doors are awesome and extra cargo...I needed all along. Everyone that drives in my Jeep loves it. After a year I am still in the infatuation stage. Jeep did right on this one. Heres to another decade, or much longer I hope!

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  Love Jeeps - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Doc Savage - November 11 - 7:10 pm

  This is my 4th Wrangler (still have the 98). I enjoy the open air fun and offroad ability of the Wrangler. Been a rag top man for years and love the open air.

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  2014 Wrangle under 6000 miles - 2014 Jeep Wrangler
  By brkdvs - November 11 - 2:14 pm

  I am having a lot of personal issues with my Jeep. First I would like to say I understand the Wrangler is not supposed to be the most comfortable or fashionable vehicle but I have highlighted some problems that are completely unnecessary. 1. All the plastic is "chalking" and turning white. It looks really bad. 2. Terrible amount of drive-train play. It feels like the transmission will fall out of the vehicle at some point (lots of clunking and knocking) 3. The serpentine belt will not stop squeaking. 4. During heavy rain fall the cowl vent will leak and fill the passenger and driver footwells with water.

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  Second Time the charm- My Jeep X 4dr - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Kim - November 9 - 3:23 am

  Was a wrangler owner in 1996, had tons of issues but loved to drive it. They fixed everything I hated about the old models. It rides smooth, layout inside and out is perfect. VERY QUIET-- love that. Performance is good, could be a tad better but I am happy with it. Get BETTER gas mileage than my 4cyl 4dr Saturn wagon [seriously]. so far 20-21 mpg with mixed driving and it is very new [500 miles] so mileage will improve with driving. I missed my old jeep for YEARS, used to go to the lot and sigh every time I saw one but a two door was too small for me now-- enter the 4door unlimited!!! Thank you Jeep-- I luv you!

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  Boogie Nights Review - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By boogie nights - November 4 - 2:00 am

  The 2003 Jeep Wrangler X is an excellent vehicle, perfect for mild to moderate off roading. Also with the 4.o 6 cyl. it has the power you need to perform well on or off road. The interior is limiting but well designed for the amount of space available. All the Xs controls are easily within reach and head room is in abundance (even more when the top is off). Storage space is a definate downfall unless no one is in the folding back seat.

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  My first Jeep - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By jasonjeep03 - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I have been a life long fan of the Jeep since my father had one when I was a kid. I finally was able to purchase one this summer and I must say it is living upto my expectation. My friend took me up into the mountains this fall between the rocky climbs and the giant mudholes this vehicle is unstoppable. Most fun I ever had in a car. I used to drive small sports cars, I dont think I will ever go back. Anxiously awaiting our first snowfall so I can have some fun with my dad.

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  actual off road user - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By teds - November 4 - 2:00 am

  I use the jeep for a lot of trips to places where the four wheel drive is required, i.e. death valley, anza borrego ect. I love my Jeep and have owned a series of five of them over the last decade. The wrangler is relatively inexpensive with premier off road ability, it sacrifices in the comfort area. If comfort and good off road ability is what you want, look at the jeep grand cherokee and stay away from the BMW X-5 and Mercedes M class!!

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  Good for off-roading - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
  By Clayton - October 30 - 3:03 am

  SOOOO fun to drive off-road, can handle just about everything. Weve gone up VERY steep hills that most likely not very many other Jeeps can handle like this one! My first time driving it off-road was hard since Im only 15 and dont even have my permit yet. But it was fun, we even went over some pretty big rocks with it. Can handle the heat -- we tested it out in about 98 degree heat and the color is black. Its a dependable car.

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  jeeps rock - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By jck333 - October 29 - 2:00 am

  for the longest time a have wanted to become a new jeep owner and the wrangler has been my weapon of choice. there is pretty much nothing this vehicle cant do and nowhere it cant go.