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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  Wranglers are now practical! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By RLawson - March 22 - 3:00 am

  The new 4 door Wranglers drive as smooth as cars on the highway, features incrdible upgrades as far as interior design and space are concerned, and gets much improved gas mileage from the older Wranglers (about 360miles to a tank). I have nearly 5000 miles on my Jeep and have not had any problems. For my third Jeep vehicle this is by far the best.

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  Better equipment further to get stuck - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By hammer - March 20 - 9:23 pm

  I havent driven a jeep in 20 years. The Rubicon has a good comfortable ride, low range no doubt is a true rock crawler, to truly enjoy the vehicle have no less than 5K on the vehicle. Great equipment, Keep in mind the better the equipment the further to get in deep trouble and far away from the nearest towing garage. I was once told that you need to buy an Wrangler X to build it up a true jeep. Dont believe that, there plenty of more building to get the Rubicon where you want it.

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  luvmyjeep - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By funjeepguy - March 18 - 10:00 am

  I have had more fun with my Jeep Wrangler than any other car I have wned. I bought the solar yellow and it turns heads everwhere I go. I have the X model with the in line 6 cyl engine. I hve heard rummors that the in line 6 will be replaced with the v-6. i think that would be a mistake to to this.

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  2001 Jeep Wrangler Sport 4WD - 2001 Jeep Wrangler
  By Deb Shaw - March 14 - 7:43 am

  I always wanted a Jeep Wrangler. Now that I have one, I realize why I always wanted one. It is a blast to drive, especially with the top down and with the dogs harnessed in. It has so much response to it. I dont have to guess if theres "Enough time to pass this guy". The A/C rocks. The sound bar / system also rocks. I wish it got better mileage though. I get between 14-16 running around town, but never got more than 17.1 on a 500 mile trip. Oh well. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to have a "Fun" vehicle. My husband & I never take it off-road. It is fantastic in snow though. It is really put together sturdy

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  Yep Yep - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By jthumanist - March 14 - 7:30 am

  Been wanting a Jeep Wrangler for a long time. Occasionally paruse the consumer reports and then it happened; a seeming nexus of all things good about the Wrangler came together in 2010. So I went for it and have not looked back since. The 2011 and 2012 models look like Jeep is trrying to get a broader customer base by making it gentler and kinder to the occupants. A Jeep is a Jeep and should not be messed with unless adding accessories. Speaking of which, the 2010 Sport that I have was designed for add-ons; Id rather do the stuff myself than buy factory installed. Its my DD and my DFV (Daily Fun Vehicle).

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  Much Improved! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Boulder - March 9 - 1:36 pm

  Ive really enjoyed this vehicle. Plenty of space, good fuel economy for an SUV, and one of the only SUVs available in a manual transmission. Four door convertible in the summer is certainly fun, and the hard tops have improved (ease of use/installation as well as reduced leaks, squeaks, etc.). Great in the snow and ice, and the longer wheelbase and new suspension make it comfortable (not luxurious) on long road trips. Underpowered (needs something larger than the 3.8) at elevation but with a manual you can certainly get by. No maintenance issues to date (~1 year and 12k miles). Overall, lots of fun.

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  This Jeep Rocks - 2009 Jeep Wrangler
  By jay - March 5 - 5:33 pm

  Ive always wanted a Jeep, but with 3 kids it never happened. But with the Unlimited 4dr, its now possible. I got the Rubicon with remote start, dual tops, GPS, and other extras. This thing is awesome. The new Orange color for 09 just seems to glow. Havent had the top off yet, but cant wait for Spring weather to lose the hard-top, which is actually very quiet on the road. The longer wheelbase of the Unlimited removed the "squirreliness" on the highway that the Jeeps of yesteryear seemed to suffer from. Even the 2dr version is much more stable than the pre-2007 Wranglers.

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  Rubicon - Get Some! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Josephus - March 3 - 8:13 pm

  Ive owned my 2007 Unlimited Rubicon for 60 days now and I love it! Offroad this thing is King. Everyone is amazed how well it rides on the street and trail. The automatic is geared a little high (so get the 4:10 gears) but gets 22-23mpg on the highway. The best part of this Jeep is the space and family sized comfort. Its definitely a "Jeep" interior, and everything is manual regarding the tops. But it is so much fun! Ive taken it to the beach 3 times so far, and Ive got 2 weeks coming up. Many new safety features have made this thing safer.

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  This Vehicle is a Lot of Fun - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By SKenyon45 - February 28 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is really fun to drive and has a supringly great amount of comfort for a vehicle that is based on the premise that it will be used off road. The factory installed enhancements, normally installed after market, are engineered as a system, so this car doesnt misbehave, even at speeds up to 75 mph.

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  Rubicon for the family - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By YellowRubi - February 25 - 8:53 pm

  This is my 5th Jeep, 3rd Wrangler, and 2nd Rubicon. The Rubicon is such a great off-road and fun vacation vehicle that my family selected to upgrade for the space in this Unlimited model. The decrease in MPG in this model was disappointing (23mpg down to 18) however, the extra space has paid off for the 2 kids and dog. My wife loves it so much she took the Jeep 101 course through the dealer and local Jeep Club and now she loves it even more. She became familiar with "lockers". My 8 year old daughter plans to own this Jeep when she reaches 16. I cant blame her. Great Jeep. Great off road. Great for PA winters and traveling the mountains during hunting season. This Jeep is a keeper.