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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  2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Brad - July 15 - 7:13 am

  This is my first Jeep but after having a GMC Jimmy theres no comparison. Steering is light but responsive, corners well and the highway ride is much improved over past generations. Noise is still there but not dominating. Engine isnt a powerhouse but with the 6 spd thats up to the driver, and it can go fairly well. No problems with the roof or door seals. Suspension is firm but in town it doesnt have a problem absorbing northern Alberta potholes. If you want a cushy ride, buy a Crown Vic. I plan to have this thing for a long time, and so far so good!

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  My forever Jeep - 2001 Jeep Wrangler
  By tjinsaanich - July 15 - 6:51 am

  Ive bought it used the first day of 2007 at 72,000 KM and I havent regret it once. I have made many mods to it and now it sport Aussie lockers, 3" lift with 31" MT, snorkel with Body spacer air intake, body armor all around with flat fender, Bush bumper with winch, striped down interior and a truck bed liner paint job. Needless to say it is an off-road machine but I also use it as my daily driver most days. My other vehicle is a VW Eurovan camper that is great and comfortable but it aint my Jeep and if I had to choose Id take the Jeep any day.

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  2006 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By darlene - July 14 - 3:00 pm

  The Jeep Unlimited is a much smoother & quieter ride than the old Wrangler. Dual top is great for year round driving.

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  The most fun car for the money! - 2013 Jeep Wrangler
  By bu_tu - July 12 - 8:35 pm

  This is my first Jeep, 2013 Wrangler Sport with 6 speed. I have had many new cars over the years, but this one is the most fun car I have ever owned. It is a blast to drive, get 22+ mpg on the highway, fits in any parking place, have about 2000 miles on it now and am really pleased with the vehicle. Good fit and finish, hardtop makes it quiet inside. Have a convertible in the summer, something to go in the snow in the winter, and can go back country also. Nice work Jeep!

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  Best ride out there! - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Pootie Wango - July 12 - 10:00 am

  I traded my 2002 wrangler for the new 2004 electric lime. Jeeps handle the best than any suv/4wd that I have driven and there have been alot. You have the security and fun of the 4wd and the drop top. I will own nothing but a Jeep Wrangler!

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  Blast - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By GtrBt - July 10 - 6:13 am

  Only regret should have got 4wd, havent needed it but just want it. Love the 3 piece hard top also have soft top, great ride for a Jeep really any suv. Gas mileage is decent at 18-21 mpg. Its truly a lot of fun to drive and gives you so many more options, went from an avalanche and havent missed it

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  Better Be Willing to Live with Problems - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Nic - July 8 - 4:50 pm

  Bought this a while back and we just got rid of it because of all the problems we had with it. Transmission jumped from gear to gear, roof leaked, door rattled excessively. Just because its a "Jeep" doesnt mean they can put out crap. Pros - handled well in the snow with good traction and decent mpg if you drafted semis.

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  Great all-around family car - 2012 Jeep Wrangler
  By derbs24 - July 4 - 6:09 pm

  Bought one of the first 2012 in fall of 2011 for $37K. 3.6 Pentastar was worth waiting for. Have Avg 20mpg over 74,000 miles. Have gotten 24mpg on multiple road trips from WI to FL. Wife drives it daily 50mi roundtrip for work and she still loves it! Not the most comfortable, not the quietest but it is a Wrangler. Freeedom top is awesome, we leave the hard top on and just pop the front 2 panels for sun. Had the cylinder head issue, but dealer fixed no problem, no drama with free rental. Love the looks, love the image (kinda like riding a Harley). Just got some trade numbers and dealer offered us $27,000 to trade on a new Wrangler. Resale second to none.

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  The Most Practical-Impractical Vehicle - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Burger - July 1 - 10:40 am

  Jeep has flat out hit a home run for the person/family that loves to have the top down. After reading reviews I was a little leary of the 07 Unlimited, but this vehicle is outstanding. Driving 30 miles each way, hour and a half a day and this Jeep is great. Ride quality is great, seats are comfortable (did take a four hour cruise to see family already and the trip was easy as can be). Steering is responsive, no "roll" feeling in corners, very nimble. Enging is good, not great but Ive been plenty happy with acceleration, passing, cruising, etc. Interior is extremely roomy for a Jeep. Plenty of cargo room. If youve owned a CJ before, dont drive this Jeep, youll buy it!

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  The Best! - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By lovemyjeepsofar - June 28 - 10:00 am

  I have always wanted a Jeep Wrangler but, being in my late 40s, I thought it was a childish fantasy that I should finally put to bed. Then I came to my senses! Its fun, powerful, reliable (so far) and I can go anywhere in it. The 4WD-on-the-fly is easy and quite liberating. Im short (411) and to finally be able to see more than the back end of another car is one of the best features of this vehicle for me. Sturdiness and safety ratings are another huge plus. The awsome turning radius makes parking a complete breeze. And then theres the "Jeep Wave". It makes you feel at home wherever you are.