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 - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By SCHWIES - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Bought this jeep for my wife, she really wanted this color, trim, etc. I could not talk her into a Rubicon, for the same price, although I really love my dads new one. She is more about sound systems, fun, and comfort than capability. Hendrick was easy to deal with and she loves her new jeep!

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  Get One..youll love it - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By Get1 - September 4 - 10:00 am

  Just bought a 2003 Inca Gold pearl coat X, I love it. Looks good, drives good. Youll overlook all of its shortcomings when it puts a smile on your face!

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  Better than my 2000 Grand Cherokee - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By bahrain_jeepster - September 3 - 1:53 pm

  I know its the baby Jeep (with the 2.4), but for the kind of wheeling I do, its as good a compromise between getting there on the highway and then being in the mountains. My Jeep has helped to clean up from hurricanes while stationed in GTMO, to treking in the deserts of the middle east. Only got stuck once, in an orchard here in the states. I had the wrong tires to deal with the mud, heck the tractor almost got stuck as well! I traded my 2000 Grand Cherokee for this and I have never looked back! Will not trade it for love nor money! Not a speed demon on the road, but keeps up with traffic.

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  5,000 miles and loving it! - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By redsoxnpats - August 31 - 3:23 pm

  Owned 03 Liberty, traded it for 08 Wrangler 4 door in mid-September and love it. We avg 300+ miles a week commuting and the car gets between 17- 19 miles a gallon. Seats are comfortable, car handles well. Gets lots of looks. Owning the Jeep is like owning a piece of Americana. This car is steeped in tradition. Once you remove the soft top from the rear, and the hard top is on, there is plenty of cargo space. Handles well if youre driving along at 70 plus miles an hour. Yes there is wind noise, but mostly at high speeds. Nice speaker system. Its 50-56 dollars to fill the tank @ $3.00 a gallon when close to empty. Nice hidden compartment in the rear to hold an ER Kit. Im extremely satisfied.

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  Jeep Owners Dream - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Geoffrey - August 18 - 5:13 am

  Wow. Its been 6 days and I am still in heaven. The Jeep Wrangler 4 door will go down in history as one of the best things to ever come from DC/Jeep. The 2007 Wrangler (4 door) rides high and comfortable. Entry and exit is something you may need to practice, but I have owned three Jeeps now and it keeps getting better. My one and only negative is that the upward (looking towards traffic lights) visibility is limited with the top on. My Jeep steers true and gets plenty of looks. The gas mileage is low, but again I have owned three Jeeps. The interior space/design is awesome. Plenty of room for 5 adults and a dog!

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  I love my Jeep! - 2001 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jeepin Tom - August 12 - 10:00 am

  I bought a Wrangler because I thought it would be a fun vehicle to drive. Oh, Man! I didnt have a clue! My Jeep is a hundred times more fun than I thought it would be. Nothing like a topless/doorless drive on a nice day. And going off road, well.. thats the the ULTIMATE! You have to be willing to give up a lot of the things that most people feel are so important in a vehicle, like fuel economy, smooth and quiet ride, passenger and cargo room, sporty handling, etc. But the reward in terms of PURE FUN is well worth the sacrifices!

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  Very capable Jeep even with the X model - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Squint - August 6 - 8:13 pm

  I have owned my Wrangler X 2Dr for almost 2 months and I love it. I was skeptical at 1st w/ the 3.8L V6 until I racked up about 1000 miles and it finally broke in. It performs quite well now w/ my 33s and the stock 4.10 gearing that come with the Auto. Even the X model is very capable on the trail after numerous outings now. For the interior: the seats are fairly comfortable and modern. However, the dash is hard not to scratch when cleaning dust/dirt; the glove box and center console lock as well as rear floor cargo storage by locking rear swing door. The soft top is definitely quieter than previous models and it secures better around the doors. The headlights and fog lights are improved.

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  New to Jeeps - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By BushMan - August 4 - 3:30 pm

  I have always been a Ford guy so when I went to Jeep, it surprised me. I was impressed with the comfort of the ride although riding on the highway is quite uncomfortable. It does have a lot of wind noise but its a Jeep. So far, I havent had any issues with the vehicle yet. I do have minor leaks through the hardtop which I figured was going to happen. I do have some rust spots too but other than that, I hope its a good vehicle.

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  2000 Wrangler Sahara - 2000 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jeffrey Morris - August 4 - 2:53 am

  Ive owned 3 Jeeps - the others being a 1993 Cherokee and a 2002 Grand Cherokee. The Wrangler is the only one I own now, for almost 7 years. It is mechanically well built, with very little drivetrain repair being needed. I have replaced a starter (warranty) and paid for a new muffler, wiper motor, and various wear items (brakes, serpertine belt). I tend to leave the top down in the summer. One year the steering column filled with water during a rain storm resulting in almost $1K in repairs needed - in the warranty period, but not covered. I have since been more careful to put a trash bag over the column when the top is down. I bought a 2006 Chrysler 300 sedan and kept the Jeep as a fun vehicle.

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  Future Problems? - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By postalgal - August 1 - 1:40 pm

  Purchased the RHD Sport Postal Jeep with high hopes for a quality ride that could take the abuse I can dish out on a daily basis (all you mail folks know what I mean). Anyway, the engine was making noise from the day I picked it up. It sounded like the valves, but just couldnt imagine how a new Jeep could have that kind of problem, but thats what it was! Dealer had to replace valve lifters at 2300 miles. I also am noticing a loud thunking noise and it feels like it is right under my feet. I hope this isnt an indication of how this vehicle is going to hold up. Maybe I should have bought the extended warranty.