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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  My first Jeep - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By sonsofpar - October 9 - 7:16 am

  Very comfortable to drive and on long trips. Nice styling and features, I thoroughly enjoy driving it. I have mixed city/highway driving and am averaging 20MPG- above estimates. Really nice stereo on my sahara unlimited version. Storage is good. I have a family of 5 with one in a child seat. We can all fit and have room in the back for our gear. On the negative- I have the hard tops and they leak, 4 trips to the dealership for the water doctor and they cant get it straight- 28K is too much for a vehicle that drips water on you . Starter sticks and blinckers will sometimes not disengage. Only 5k and lots of squeeks and rattles. Brakes squeak loudly

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  Dont buy it - because youll love it - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By Hawk - October 8 - 2:00 am

  I love my Jeep and if I hadnt had so many major repairs at 54,000 miles, I wouldnt be trading it for a Toyota 4Runner. Note: Manifold, Differential, Seat Belt, and Drive Shaft replacement!!! No favors at the dealer with the warranty or the trade value for a new one.

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  Dream Car! - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jeepster - October 7 - 1:53 pm

  I recently purchased a 2010 2-door Sahara with the manual transmission. It is a blast to drive! Everything about the Wrangler has been impressive so far. . . I cant wait until it gets warm enough to take the top off!

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  4.0L 94 YJ - 1994 Jeep Wrangler
  By jeepin - October 6 - 6:50 pm

  I have had the Jeep for a couple thousand miles and love it. It has never had any major problem. The headers were cracked, but what 4.0Ls are not; I replaced them with a Banks set for about $300 and put them in myself. Very simple and easy to work on if you decide to take the time. A clean Wrangler will never go out of style and they hold their value pretty well. I go off-roading and have never had a problem. (4-in lift with 33in BFG All-Terrains on black rims). Also the ride stinks really bad. You can feel every bump in the road, but its a Jeep and i would not have it any other way. :)

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  These things are great !!!!!! - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Sean7373 - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I have owned cherokees, grand cherokees and my girlfriend owns a liberty and this is by far the most fun and versitle vehicle I have ever owned.You cant beat a convertable in the summer and the best four wheel drive system to get you through winter.

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  Rubicrap - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By mwgiese - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Although the Rubicon looks great and boasts hard-core options such as the 4:1 transfer case, Dana 44s, lockers, etc., I have found the quality of the vehicle to be too poor to justify buying this vehicle (in retrospect). In the three months I have owned the Jeep it has been in the shop five times for transfer-case and rear differential work, including two complete transfer case replacements! Save yourself the headache and buy an old Jeep (before Chrysler got a hold of them), buy quality aftermarket options, and install them yourself.

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  Jeep - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By digifine - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I recently moved to colorado and participate in a number of active sports. This vehicle has been the perfect match. I knew what I was getting into buying this, and frankly I expected a much cruder and unrefined vehicle. I have had numerous passengers comment on how nice the ride is compared to older jeeps. But who cares about that? Offroad is where this thing shines, wheter it be a technical 4x4 trail or the deep colorado snow, it handels it in stride. Built very solid, strong engine, can you say torque? Hasnt had a single mechanical problem- Im good with maintainace, but am not shy about flogging it on the trail.

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  Loving It - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Gary - October 2 - 1:36 am

  Bought this car in June. Had an 89 Wrangler when younger. Traded in my Acura TL and dont regret it for a minute. I was concerned with build and reliability after reading reviews, but so far so good. Jeep is just awesome in the summer months. Definitely get the soft and hard top. Ride is great. Our kids go crazy for this car. My neighbor bought one last week because they loved it so much. You must learn the Jeep wave if you are a first time owner!

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  GREAT - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By BTwisted2Metal - September 30 - 10:00 am

  This is an overall great vehicle. :)

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  kicks A.....but you cant save gas - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By lvd - September 30 - 10:00 am

  love it.looks great feels good seems right and its a jeep thing you wouldnt understand.