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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  Reliable - 1993 Jeep Wrangler
  By drbphoto - April 11 - 7:40 am

  I have the93 Wrangler S. Many friends scoffed at me when I sold a Toyota truck and bought the Jeep. Its been EXTREMELY reliable and has held up to abuse that would destroy almost anything else out there, So far Ive put 100k miles on it with 3 non-user induced repairs; starter fuel pump and oil pressure switch. Extremely fun to drive on the short haul but abusive on a long drive. Spartan interior with almost no creature comforts, Leg room could be more. Over all its the best car I have ever owned and will keep it in one form or another for a very long time

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  JEEP STILL #1 4X4 - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By sjustice64 - April 8 - 6:56 am

  My first car was a 76 CJ5, but I ended up flipping it and blowing the engine. Ten years later, I still drooled at every Jeep, so I finally went out and bought one. I never regret it! Added a 4" lift with 33" tires with a winch and I can go ANYWHERE and EVERYWHERE!

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  2010 Wrangler Unlimited Mountain - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By Dave - April 4 - 2:33 am

  So far reliability has been excellent. Mileage with combined city/highway averages about 16 mpg. The engine could definitely use a horsepower boost. The standard stereo, while ok, lacks wattage and sound quality. Interior could use more storage space. The freedom hardtop is great for driver "open air" while remaining good for northern climates. Shortcoming aside, I love the Jeep personality and have a lot of fun with the vehicle.

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  Looks Great - Not sure of Quality Yet - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Brian H - March 16 - 12:00 pm

  So far I must say Im happy with my new 07 Wrangler 4 door, but a little concerned. The incorporation of 4 doors sold me. The ride is not as rough and bumpy as one would expect. Handles just fine on the highway and Ive gotten 19-20 MPG on the highway. The only concern I have is the quality. Ive owned mine for 2 months and issues have begun to arise. The rubber pads on the hood keep falling off. Most worrisome, on 2 occasions while driving all the sudden the dash lights come on, the motor cuts out, and it completely stalls...it restart and regains power within 5 seconds. Sometimes when I unlock the doors with the keyless remote, the radio starts playing on its own. Im worried. :(

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  Getting Better - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By joe b - March 13 - 2:00 am

  This is the tenth Jeep I have owned and they continue to get better each year. I currently have about 45,000 miles on this vehicle, mostly trouble free. We live in Florida but drive it to the mountains of Colorado for a month each summer to run the Jeep trails. This Wrangler is loaded with options but is still a compentent vehicle in the high country.

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  It reeks with testosterone! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Chest Rockwell - March 12 - 2:03 pm

  I was looking for a vehicle that fits me a little better than a Toyota Corolla. I found the 2007 Jeep Wrangler. Im very happy with the purchase. Dont know what everybody was talking about when they said this thing was noisy. Its no louder than my Honda CR-V. The ride is not uncomfortable either. Not sure what vehicle those people were talking about under the Jeep reviews. This thing is awesome! Yeah, its a gas hog. But, if youre looking for a economical car why would you be looking at a Jeep? Gas prices cannot come into the equation when purchasing a Jeep Wrangler.

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  The green Jeep - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By Geologist Ken - February 19 - 8:56 pm

  This is my first Jeep and not my last. I have owned 4x4 trucks in the past, but this Jeep is the best. It is very capable off road and my mom who is 82, really likes to be seen in it too. Mpg is good, in the 20 per gallon range with the 6 cylinder under the hood.

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  Needs improvement - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jason - February 13 - 2:56 pm

  I will give credit to the fact that the new style rides and handles a lot better for everyday driving. The tractions control is a feature that should never have been added as I have found while pulling out into traffic on snowy roads the vehicle hesitates to get going and have almost been hit. There also seems to be a power band in every gear which gives it a sluggish feel when accelerating, not impressed!! I think the people at Chrysler should have just stuck with the 4.0 litre. The tire pressure sensor likes to come on when its cold out and the "Change oil" indicator comes on and doesnt shut off even after changing the oil?

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  jeep wrangler - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By jp - February 13 - 10:00 am

  vehicle is fun to drive good visability because of height solid reliable vehicle(pulled out a few 9 inch tree stumps clearing yard) tires a little noisy when driving without radio on because of soft top top still tight enought after 1 year use to resist wind flap at high speeds

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  Its a Jeep Thing - 2001 Jeep Wrangler
  By Scott3249 - January 26 - 9:43 pm

  Got this Wrangler in July of 2001 after my 98 Wrangler got total. Was surprise at the improvements to the top. Great SUV, not gonna win any MPG awards, but hey its a Jeep. Ive put close to 90k miles on it and just replaced the radiator, was my fault for not flushing it out. Has been been a great jeep.