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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  Its a Jeep Thing. . . - 2002 Jeep Wrangler
  By CJs TJ - June 27 - 6:16 am

  Before I bought my 02 Wrangler Sport, I used to see the slogan "Its a Jeep thing, you wouldnt understand." Since owning it I do understand. Nothing compares to going off-road, climbing over hills and rocks, plowing through water or mud that is fender high, just to commune with Mother Nature. One thing I will say, the more you want to play, the more you pay. The acronym fits JEEP - Just Empty Every Pocket, but its been worth every penny.

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  The ONE and only...Jeep - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By Steven - June 26 - 6:46 pm

  In the past 25 years I have driven a lot of different makes and models of other brands of cars, but I have always owned a Jeep Wrangler as my second car. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited seems to continue with the tradition of past Jeeps of being reliable and dependable when other cars seems to fail. The longer wheelbase of the Unlimited makes for a smoother ride and the leg room in the back seat has increased, making it easier for the people riding in the back. The acceleration and handling of the Unlimited continues to impress me by its quick response in and out of traffic. The fact that the Jeep is sweet and simple to operate and drive makes it one of the many reasons the Jeep tradition lives on!

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  Jeep 4 Life - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Phunkyphan43 - June 22 - 10:00 am

  Best Car. No Doubt

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  This jeep rocks! - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By JMellott - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Im a first time jeep buyer who will always own a jeep from now on. I moved from sunny Los Angeles to snowy Washington state shortly after buying my Rubicon last Fall, and Im sure glad I bought it. Minus 18 degree weather and 12 inches of snow were no problem...it just made for some fun driving!

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  04 Wrangler - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By bomberfive - June 11 - 10:00 am

  Remember what this vehicle was / and is designed for. Fuel economy (for a 4 X 4) is excellent. Well built and will last a long time. Anything you do not like about the original vehicle, can easily be changed with after market parts.

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  234K miles and going strong - 1992 Jeep Wrangler
  By David C. - June 11 - 9:43 am

  Bought my 92 Wrangler used with 33K miles on it. Ive driven it over 200K since and she still purrs like a kitten and looks great after a new paint job a few years back. Im only a shade tree mechanic with a ratchet set and I find it extremely easy to maintain. The inline 4.0, 6 cylinder engine is the best around. Keep the oil clean and it will take care of you. I just replaced the radiator myself with that same old ratchet set. Biggest and easiest repair Ive had to make. I confess she is my second car now but she is also my favorite toy to this day. Plan on keeping her forever and giving it to my 2 year old when he is of age. Hes already calling it his Jeep.

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  Best purchase I have made - 1998 Jeep Wrangler
  By WBSobe - June 10 - 9:40 am

  I bought my Wrangler used last year with 72,000 miles on it. I have been loving my Wrangler since I bought it. Living in MA its a great year round vehicle, top off in the summer and 4 wheel drive in the winter. I havent had any mechanical problems like other have stated. I had to replace the rear brakes but thanks to it being a domestic vehicle it cost A LOT less then replacing brakes on my old Toyota. Its been a life changer in the past year I have been hiking and camping more than ever. It gives you a great respect for the outdoors. A Wrangler is not for everyone you have to be a specific type of person to buy one and to enjoy one.

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  Sahara 4 door lemon - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By alan - June 3 - 1:03 pm

  Only have 1,800 miles and have been back to repair Jeep Chrysler dealer 5 times for problem with anti-skid engaging while driving. This causes an unsafe condition. Chrysler customer service in uncaring. All they did each time was replace the crankshaft sensor. Last week they kept my Jeep 6 days while they put in a shim to stop the sensor from causing the problem. I was left with no ride. I love this vehicle, but would never buy a Chrysler product again.

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  Best deal for your money Jeep - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Petes Jeep - May 29 - 12:06 pm

  Bought mine for $13,688 base model with no radio, no rear seat, and no AC. Added radio & seat aftermarket for 1/7th what the dealer wanted. Not much power as the car is not geared right with a 2.4L 4cyl, but really fun to drive and own.

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  Highway and Trail - 1995 Jeep Wrangler
  By SECORBUST - May 27 - 2:23 pm

  I bought my jeep with 175K on the odometer and a broken transmission. It now has 220k on it. I repaired the trans and drove it until it broke again. The AX-5 is notorious for being weak. I replaced it with an AX- 15 (from a 6cyl) which is much stronger by using a dodge dakota bell housing and a Camaro clutch disk. This transmission should have come in all 4cyl jeeps (it fits like factory). If you are in to offroading and like to work on your rig or will drive it reasonably about town a Rio Grande is the jeep for you. Jeep nuts always change the driveline, so it really doesnt really matter what you start with.