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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  Good to go! - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By mecinoid - January 2 - 3:23 am

  I only have bought this Jeep about a month ago but, I have owned a few Jeeps in my life. I love the improved ride, power, quietness and performance of this Wrangler Jeep. Quite an improvement over ones just a few years back imo. Parts are easy to get and the package works well for me as a towable vehicle behind my motorhome as well. If your going to buy this one at least get the limitted slip rear diff from the factory with the DANA 44 rear end. I plan on putting a cable locker up front and Ill be set for all but the worst stuff. I have already added $1500 in parts for off roading; bumpers, winch, and tow bar, and rock sliders were a must for my use. Loving it!

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  Awesome - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By jarrod - December 31 - 8:26 pm

  Very fun to drive, not very good gas mileage but if you are buying a Jeep you probably do not care about gas anyway. Having both tops is great!

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  IT - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By BALDY - December 31 - 5:56 pm

  Had A 2003 Sport LOVED IT. My 2010 Sport is much better looking rides 100 times better interior is roomer & much more comfortable love it with a little work it will be ready for some serious 4 wheeling

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  GREAT RIDE - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By JASON - December 31 - 12:16 am

  I have had my Jeep for just over a week now and love it. The ride is nice and the interstate road noise isnt that bad. I have added an alarm and keyless entry that makes it really nice. I have the Ecco tire group that makes it a little higher, when its time to get tires again I will go larger.

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  almost a home run - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By tangoromeo - December 28 - 10:01 pm

  With only minor improvements (2 1/2" lift kit, 33" tires, and a 10,000 lb winch), I have used and abused this Jeep for everything I could imagine doing in a vehicle. Its pulled tree stumps, dragged an F350 out of the mud, driven through flooded areas and snow, and it never quits on me.

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  Love it - 2009 Jeep Wrangler
  By simplefello - December 22 - 9:16 am

  I traded my 200 Silverado single cab z- 71 for this vehicle because of a growing family. I love the jeep and have ever since I rented one for a week. This thing gets so many looks and is very capable off road. I really love that it can fit two car seats in it and I can still feel like a real man...lol.

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  Not a racecar - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Shawn Larson - December 20 - 7:22 pm

  This vehicle is not fast, does not stop quickly and will beat you up on any journey over 50 miles. It maxes out at 80mph which is good because it becomes unstable after 70mph. Its noisy and rides rough (bouncy) and quick braking can be scary. Now for the good. Its cool to drive, the ladies like them, they can go anywhere if outfitted right, the 4.0L engine is bullet proof and the transmission is stiff but durable. The resale value is incredible. Edmunds isnt accurate with resale values as they grossly undervalue Wranglers by thousands of dollars. You will see this as you investigate the purchase of a used Wrangler. A fun car that requires careful driving habits. 4 star rating is for fun factor.

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  you will be missed, my old friend - 1994 Jeep Wrangler
  By jgrann75 - December 19 - 12:10 am

  this jeep was my first car, and here is my testament to it. i barrel rolled this jeep going 50mph down the highway about 6 months after i got it. the accident was my fault, and i drove it home the next day. a little at home body work, along with new doors, new windshield and new hardtop from the junkyard (cost $1500), and it was like new. exaust was as loud as a tank, and acceleration was not that great. there were lots of little repairs here and there, but what else could you expect form a car that old. it will be sorely missed, as i am selling it to the junkyard tomorrow. im only ditching it due to back left leaf spring coming unattached and grinding into gas tank. extremly fun, i loved it

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  No regrets - 1998 Jeep Wrangler
  By morrisdg - December 15 - 10:00 am

  A convertible for people who still want a rugged feel, who still want to be able to go anywhere. An SUV for people who dont need to compensate for shortcomings elsewhere. A fun car that still has a few practical uses. Friends may not be willing to buy one themselves, but theyll all want to ride in it. Life is better with a Jeep.

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  FUN AND VERSATILE - 1998 Jeep Wrangler
  By Archaeologist - December 15 - 10:00 am

  THE JEEP BEGAN AS A MILITARY VEHICLE AND HAS NOT LOST ITS OFFROAD ABILITY THROUGH OUT THE YEARS. THE REMOVABLE TOP COUPLED WITH THE 4WD CAPABILITY MAKES IT A VERY VERSATILE RIG.