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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  Jeep 4 Fun - 1993 Jeep Wrangler
  By jeep4fun - March 15 - 9:53 pm

  This is my and my wifes 3rd Jeep. We love to go 4 wheeling and Sunday rides. Mileage is OK (6 cylinder get 19 mpg, better than a 4 cylinder) This Jeep is dependable; we drive it to work 95% of time m-- we work at same location. People alway trying to buy it, even neighbors. Have pulled 4000 trailer in west NC mountains and to the beach. 140,000 miles, same clutch, same rear brakes shoes, have only replaced starter, radiator, coil, camshaft sensor and front brake pads. Not much for 140,000 miles and how hard we use it. We pull a utility trailer often too. We live in a cove with a steep 20 percent grade and we are almost alway the first ones out in deep snow. Mostly standard from the factory.

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  Newer Owner - 2009 Jeep Wrangler
  By Satisfied Buyer - March 14 - 3:26 pm

  I am very satisfied to date with my purchase of an 09 Unlimited Sahara. I ended up getting a fairly loaded Jeep, dual top, 6 disk CD, GPS, chrome package. It has a comfortable interior and highway ride. With the hard top option the ride is as quiet as my HD pickup. The exterior look is outstanding. I plan on keeping this for quite a few years so added the additional Jeep bumper to bumper full life time warranty. I never thought that I would own a auto, especially a 4X4, that had a lifetime B-B warranty. This lifetime drivetrain and optional B-B warranty were the icing on the cake that sealed my decision to go with a Jeep over some of the other competitor products that I had reviewed.

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  Built to last - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By J.C. Allan - March 14 - 1:36 pm

  I have had this third Jeep bought new in the swamps of Mississippi to the mountains of Utah. It has been a blast all the way. On one adventure my wife and I challenged ourselves to a 35 mile ORV trail in southern Utah and enjoyed skirting along a few mountains without difficulty. Having owned a few sports cars over the decades, including one with 12 cylinders, there is nothing more exhilarating as the freedom of getting off the beaten road and going were few dare.

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  Great looking Jeep - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By R Williams - March 11 - 1:13 pm

  This is our first Jeep and it looks great and is fun to drive. Really like the removable freedom top. It has a few loud rattles in the door pillers but someday I will take apart and find. The gas mileage is OK and we tow a 16 foot ATV trailer on weekends OK. We finally got the recall for the stalling in the mail and hopefully that will be solved as it was pretty bad on the highway for the last year losing all power for a few seconds then restarting with no help from Chrysler. It goes to the dealer in the morning and I have crossed my fingers.

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  I cant believe I finally did it! - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By P. J. - March 11 - 10:00 am

  I have a buddy who has a Sahara and I loved to drive it. I had talked about getting a Jeep for over a year. Well, my car died and I finally did it. I wanted the Sahara, but they didnt have any on the lot, so I got the X with added A/C, tinted rear windows & upgraded wheels/sound bar. I live in New Orleans, so the ride on the streets can be a little bumpy, but it is a blast to drive! If youve ever thought about it . . . Just do it!!

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  Love my Wrangler! - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By 06Red Wrangler - March 11 - 4:56 am

  27 years ago, when I was 16, I wanted a Wrangler. But, my dad said "No, theyre not for an inexperienced driver, they roll too easy." So, 27 years later, I have my Wrangler! 2006 Red Wrangler X, 6 speed. I smile every time I get behind the wheel, its so much fun to drive. I love dropping the top and cruising around in the sun. So far, no problems whatsoever. Gas mileage is better then I expected. I traded in a 2004 Jeep Liberty, that at best, got 16 MPG. The Wrangler is averaging 18.6 running around town unless I use the A/C, then it drops to 16.5. Not bad, should get better, its not even broken in yet with 1900 miles on it.

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  First new car - 2009 Jeep Wrangler
  By chn099s - March 11 - 2:23 am

  My wife and I are newlyweds, and we have never owned are own car before. I have driven demos my whole life and my wife has driven her parents 98 Malibu since it was new. We ordered the unlimited Sahara on 3/4/09 and we got it on 3/23/09.

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  Some Pros & Cons - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Bill - March 9 - 1:03 pm

  This is my 7th Jeep I bought new to date. I liked the 4 door concept. I travel and the added cargo area works great. Gas mileage is not great, but better than many other SUVs. I enjoy driving it. Beware though, I was driving on a 5 lane Highway when the Death Wobble hit me. It almost resulted in a big crash. This came at 34,000 miles on the clock. Also rear disc brakes over heat on occasion. Both calipers & rotors needed replacement at 390000 miles.

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  Too many problems with the new Jeeps - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By alindsey12535 - March 9 - 12:06 am

  I liked my Jeep when I first bought it. They look great, but are not very practical. The interior scratches up very easily. I couldnt get my soft top to fit, so I scheduled 2 different appointments and left it with them all day. To keep my interior from being ruined, I had the hard top put back on. Now the roof leaks any time you take it through a car wash or it rains hard. There isnt any touch up paint for the hard top if its needed. It will scratch easily esp when taking it off the veh. In the heat, the sealant melts and drips a tar-like substance, which will stain the interior. My advice: Buy something a little more practical.

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  Wrangler Unlimited X - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By islander - March 8 - 8:23 am

  Its been a week now since we picked up our new Unlimited X. Got the hardtop, picked the white with black top. People are getting whiplash just checking it out going down the road. Its fun to drive, its quiet, didnt even realize I was doing 60 in a 45mph zone! The 7 speaker stereo system with Sirius Radio is unbelievable. This has to be the most fun vehicle Ive had in years & Im a gray spiky haired ol beach broad in my 50s! It was well worth the 3 month wait for a white one with a hardtop!