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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  the 04 Jeep Rubicon - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Justin snowborj22 - May 11 - 10:00 am

  this car is awsome its the first new car ive ever purchased and its great it handes great and it performs perfectly off road

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  Always wanted 1, Glad held out for this - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By MicheleS - May 11 - 10:00 am

  When I purchased my Jeep everyone worried I would suffer from buyers remorse since it was such a big change from my Honda Civic EX 4 door. I love this car and cant wait to go driving in it. It handles much better then any Jeep I have ever driven and I still smile when I get behind the wheel. I wouldnt trade it in for anything.

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  Go Anywhere - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Rocking - May 11 - 10:00 am

  Besides my 04 Rubicon I also have a 2000 Sport 5m. Both have dual tops. The 2000 gets 17 mpg the Rubicon gets 12 MPG. I drive both the same. Its time to bring out the turbo diesel 4 cyl and see what it can do. Dont get me wrong I would buy it again. But like others my 3/4 ton chevy 4X4 gets 17 mpg. I am headed to Moab next week Ill see how it holds up.

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  Excellent SUV - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Giantsfan - May 9 - 1:56 pm

  This Is the best car i ever owned. It is a lot of fun to drive, and it is so reliable. Nice 6 cylinder engine gets up to speed fast, amazing off roading.

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  2003 rubicon review - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Robert Fillion - May 5 - 10:00 am

  I have changed the suspension system by lifting my jeep 2 1/2 inches with a rancho lift system. The stock suspension system was a hard ride and this lift heped soften it upas well as give more clearance for off roading, my intial purpose for this ride. I have not had any major problems with any systems on this vehicle. It has been a great ride both on and off road. I have been able go places that I would not go with anything less than a 4 wheel drive with locks could go.

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  My first Jeep - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By jetmyke - May 5 - 10:00 am

  I really enjoy driving the Rubicon. It performs well for my daily commute and is civilized on the road, given its off road capabilities. Off road this machine is absolutly top notch. I have taken it through the "Gap" in the Catalina Mountains outside of Tucson, a 4+ rated trail, and it pulled right through. The Rubicon climbed through the boulders like a goat, (the lockers are great), and had plenty of power for the steep ascents on rock faces. Wound up breaking a wheel, but that happens in the rocks. I forgot to air down the tires. I did add a winch, rock sliders, tube bumpers and a K & N air filter. Over all very satsified.

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  14yrs and counting - 1995 Jeep Wrangler
  By 14yrs and counting - May 3 - 4:03 am

  This was my dream car when I was 19. Now Im 33 with a kid, but I still have it since its paid for and runs well. Have driven this from WI to the beaches in Oregon, Key West, New Orleans and out to Baltimore. I promised my nephew when he was two he could have the car when he turned 16. Hes eight now, but has decided he would like a car that stays dry and is quiet. I would simply like cup holders, but thats why I unplug the drains and rinse out the car. I disliked the car while I went through a bad spell of mechanics, but I have Nick to fix it now. When my three year old is able he can fix my car for me!! I didnt think it was possible to have one car my whole life.

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  Never Go Back - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
  By Mark - April 30 - 2:10 pm

  I had always wanted a Wrangler and when I got one I was more than pleased. I was a little nervous to get one with all the problems I had heard about with the Cherokees, but, now that I have a Wrangler, I will never go back to another vehicle. I live in Alaska and the Jeep works great on and off the road. Heat is great even at - 40F, fuel economy is alright, very fun to drive. No problems so far even after I got in an accident. The only damage I had was a dented bumper. Other vehicle could not say the same. The only things I could complain about would be a better stereo package (hard to hear with the top down) and the amount of rust on the underside. Overall, an awesome reliable vehicle

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  My 2nd one - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
  By pmcca - April 27 - 10:00 am

  I am coming up on the end of my lease of my jeep and will probably negotiate a buy. I have had no major mechanical problems at all in 5 years. Its great in the summer and really great in the winter, and here in Ohio, those are huge plusses. Two slight negatives: its a bumpy ride unless you are the driver, and the gas milage isnt great, but those are both offset by the tremendous fun and practicality factors. This is my 2nd Wrangler (1991) and Ill probably get another one. This one was tons better!

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  Rubicon - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jeeper2 - April 26 - 2:00 am

  Great Jeep! Ive had three other Jeeps, All CJs, and this one blows them all away. With the HT its a quite ride...even with the MT/Rs. Yes, its a stiff ride, but anyone who buys a Jeep should already except that. With that said, this Jeep is buy far the best on/off road drive/handle Ive ever owned. This is not my primary means of transportation...strickly a pleasure vehicle for me and the family.