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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  Surprisingly capable - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By Tom - January 16 - 11:36 pm

  Bought this new and drove it 200 miles down the front range and then across the San Luis Valley of CO. Next day took it mountain climbing in the San Juans. I call that a break-in! The 4-banger has plenty of oomph for the highways and the passes, and seems to be getting decent mileage (although its too new to really judge). The six-speed tranny combined with lo-range will have you creeping over the rough stuff at less than walking speed, or stirring the gears on the road like youre in a top-down sports car. Only in a Jeep! Comfy seats, good looking all-around, and a steal at the employee price. Affordable, practical, capable, and fun transportation.

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  I sure miss it! - 1993 Jeep Wrangler
  By I M Wonderful - January 14 - 10:00 am

  A little over a year ago, I bought my 1993 Jeep Wrangler S from my parents; who bought it from my brother. What a fun vehicle! In Texas, you can almost live year round with the top off - and what a better feeling that riding around town with the wind blowing in your hair. Unfortunatly, it was wrecked just a few weeks ago - Im going to miss it. It wasnt the "family" type vehicle Ive always wanted, but it was in wonderful shape - was garaged since day one, never seen an ounce of dirt or mud, and wonderfully maintained. I couldnt have asked for a nicer Jeep. I will definately miss it.

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  The Beast - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By eknotot - January 12 - 11:46 pm

  I been all over the world (literally) through all different types of weather in my Jeep. Hawaii -> California -> Germany -> France -> and now back in Cali. From the humidity in Hawaii to the freezing temperatures and snow in Germany, it always runs like a Beast. The extra cargo room in the back is a big plus. You can easily throw in 2 12s if you want. It always runs solid no matter what kind of terrain you are in. As long as you take care of your Jeep, your Jeep will take care of you. ITS A JEEP THANG! Mods: Rubicon Express Super Flex 2 1/2" lift ProComp wheels Nitto Terra Grappler A/T tires K&N CAI Spintech exhaust Die Hard Gold battery (highly recommended)

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  The Legend Lives! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Phil - January 10 - 3:30 pm

  As an owner of two Wranglers, I was skeptical about this redesign. One drive and I was convinced its still a Jeep and better than ever! Its beefier, wider, quieter, more comfortable, more powerful and sturdier than my previous Wranglers. First 250 miles indicated 21 MPG -- great for a Wrangler and during a 250 mile trip the seats and ride were firm but comfortable, very little wind noise from the new cloth top or around the doors and the radio with 7 speakers excellent. The new engine pulls strong and the 6 speed shifts very direct. Overall a home run for the Jeep folks!

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  I love my yella Jeep! - 2000 Jeep Wrangler
  By troilus1 - January 10 - 10:00 am

  Every few months, my wife begs me to get rid of my Jeep. "Its bumpy," she says. "I cant hear myself think." "I can barely climb into it." "My feet dont touch the ground." (shes 5 feet tall) But I run my hand along the hood, and I shake my head. Ill drive this baby into the ground. It handles like a dream, and has the tightest turn-radius of anything Ive ever driven. I love being able to crawl anywhere I need to go, and still get 20mpg on the freeway. With the top down, this is, for any North Dakota boy whos made his way to Cali, *the* dream car. Ive found it extremely dependable (I put 20k a year on it), easy to tinker with, and no end of fun.

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  FUN FUN FUN - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Studatage21 - January 10 - 10:00 am

  This is great and fun Jeep to have once you own a Jeep you will always own a Jeep.

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  An Amazing Ride - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By DJ Bill - January 9 - 1:03 pm

  This is my first Jeep. I have never even ridden in one let alone owned one. I have heard so much about them and all the stories were true. It is super fun to drive and with all the configurations of the top and windows, there is no limit to the look and feel of driving this vehicle. I previously owned a 2004 Durango and the gas mileage on this was horrible. I am currently getting 19.4 mpg in my new Jeep and very satisfied with that. Pulling up to red lights is interesting because everyone wants to know about it and other Jeep owners ask "So, how do you like it?" I say awesome baby! Just remember these things are built for power, not speed! No need for a radar detector!

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  125K - still going strong - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By hlisle - January 7 - 12:43 am

  This is not a vehicle for anyone - it is not a luxury vehicle, though the price suggests otherwise. 1) Terrible on the highway - unless it is blizzard! Good news is that you wont be pushing it so hard to get a speeding ticket... 2) Not a mudder - dont buy this vehicle in Florida/South Georgia thinking you have a mudding truck... Nuhnt uh... 3) Shift linkages are 25 cent pieces of dung...

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  Me and my Rubi.... - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By sdream696 - January 5 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my silver/black Rubicon now for just two weeks, but so far the experience has been great. When comparing this to a 95 Wrangler Sport 4.0L that I owned, Ive noticed night and day differences in some areas. The soundproofing from road noise is much better! Interior comfort level is vastly better. The Sound System is HUGELY better (7 speaker system in the new one). The biggest difference, in a negative light, is that my new Rubicon is a Dog... Ive got the 4.0L Inline 6, with the 5 speed manual tranny, and its not quick by any means (my 95 was better). Not to mention the terrible gas mileage. On a positive note, Dual Tops are Great!

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  Off-road king - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By jeeper - January 2 - 9:26 pm

  I have had my Unlimited Rubicon for almost a year and love it! I am a hard-core off-roader and I find the Unlimited the perfect compromise for someone with a child and a need to drive to work 5 days a week. The lockers in the Rubi take me everywhere, and the extra cargo space hold all my gear. Im a Jeeper and added a small lift and bigger tires after a few months. Getting stuck is a thing of the past. Ive put this thing up the side of mountains in the National Forest in 1.5 feet of snow and over rocks the size of cars. It isnt the most refined, quite, or comfortable, its a Jeep