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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  Four Wheeled Dirt Bike - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By Mike - May 29 - 5:46 pm

  I have had a number of Jeeps but, not the new JK Wrangler. A few weeks after buying it, we drove it from Indiana to Moab, UT and were pleasantly surprised at how well it rode, tight build quality, fuel economy (low of 18, high of 24), did not feel wore out at the end of the day, etc. We took it out on some mild Utah trails and this thing is awesome off road in stock trim! My wife is the daily driver of it and she absolutely loves it (weird as it sounds. went from a Jetta to the Wrangler). I have always thought Wranglers were the perfect vehicle for both summer and snowy winters. Not perfect but, IMHO, the imperfections are irrelevant. Buy one, they are a BLAST & hold a great resale

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  I love it! - 2011 Jeep Wrangler
  By JeepLady - May 26 - 10:00 am

  They did a wonderful job redesigning the interior! I love the style. Also it is so much more comfortable to drive then my 2003! I would recommend this Wrangler to anyone whose interested. I have a soft top, and its not cold and noisy as people said it would be! Everyone should join part of the legacy and buy an American made Jeep!

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  Love my Jeep - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By Rev. Roger - May 22 - 2:00 am

  I have had my 2002 Jeep Wrangler now for almost two years. I absolutely love it! I wish the fuel economy was better due to the fact that I commute about 70 mile round trip every day. But, it has been a blast and great bonding tool for my whole family. We love to camp and go four wheeling off-road. My Wrangler has taken me everywhere I had had the guts and lack of common sense to go. A party on wheels...

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  Great buy - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By inspect7 - May 22 - 2:00 am

  This is my second Jeep in 4 years. My first Jeep was a base model purchased new with a four cylinder - and was slow to accelerate (also, the mileage was awful - 13mpg all around - and I am not an aggresive driver). In addition, it was loud with the softtop. With the six cylinder the power is abundant and the mileage is better (Overall average around 18mpg). Fun to drive - a head turner. Ride in lap of luxury with the Sahara without the expense of the exotic imports. Insurance is low, re-sale high. Reasonable sound levels with the hard top. Stock CD/Stereo is sweet.

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  First Jeep - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By D - May 21 - 2:40 pm

  I bought my first Jeep about a month ago (05 Rubicon) and I absolutely love it! I often take the long way home from work just so I can drive it a little longer. Although it is being used mainly for commuting, I do plan to take an occasional off-road excursion, and I cant wait to see what it can do. Not the most practical vehicle for everyday use, but thats not why we buy Jeeps. It definitely delivers everything that is promised with a Jeep. Pure fun!

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  rubicons got some problems - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By jetmec9 - May 16 - 2:00 am

  im having transfer case problems at 451 miles out of the dealer. aft drive shaft, and speed sensor seal. been waiting a week to get the parts. ive read several reviews with the same problem. havnt even taken it off road yet, just to and from work. t case was nearly out of fluid, jeep wont replace it, thats great customer service for ya. i can only hope this is the last time i have problems, or ill just let that t case leak all the way down until it burns up, then theyll be getting me one.

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  Jeep Rules - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jilian - May 15 - 7:06 pm

  Jeeps in general are amazing, but I love the Wrangler. Its fun to drive, stylish, and you cant beat its off-road capabilities. So the gas mileage isnt the best--are any SUVs that great on gas?

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  Happy in Denver! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By 2 Door Sahara - May 15 - 7:50 am

  Have had my 2 door silver Sahara since July and still love it! This is my second Wrangler. The ride has been improved greatly and does well in the snow when in four wheel. Love the freedom hardtop (no leaks). Power windows and locks are a nice change. This is my only vehicle and I love driving it (especially in the mountains)! Get lots of compliments!

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  Fun to drive - 2001 Jeep Wrangler
  By jroads - May 11 - 11:20 pm

  This car has been fun to drive. As for being an "SUV", it sure doesnt drive like one, is very maneuverable, and a breeze to park about anywhere. Where it DOES match an SUV is gas mileage. Ive had no major problems with it to date, and enjoy every drive I take.

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  My New Jeep - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By doober - May 11 - 10:00 am

  The SE model with 2.4L I-4 engine is underpowered and uses a lot of gas for an I-4. The engine seems rev happy for an offroad engine. Gearing is awesome in the 5 speed transmission, although 3rd gear could stand to be a bit lower and closer to 2nds ratio. Highway sppeds in excess of 65mph are hard to reach even on a flat surface during a calm dry day. Design, both interior and exterior, is classic bare basics Jeep. Overall a great car if you are into Jeeps.