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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  If you love Jeeps... - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jerry R. - February 4 - 11:30 pm

  Ive almost always owned one Jeep or another and currently own 2. If youre tired of dumping huge amounts of money into building a capable off-roader, get yourself into a Rubicon. Ill be starting with a Rubicon as a base for building from here on out because you just cant build a more serious off-road vehicle for the money. Buy one and drive it from the dealership directly to the nearest (and most extreme) trail and have fun knowing youll go anywhere! I love my 04 more than any Jeep Ive built (including a 59, 76 and an 88). The seats need lower lumbar support but its more comfortable by far than its predecessors. Save your "build-up" cash for something else - buy a Rubicon instead.

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  Its a Jeep, Not a BMW - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By Cowboy Fan - February 3 - 10:20 am

  I am 57 and this is my fourth Wrangler. Traded in an 08 BMW for the Wrangler and havent looked back. We are having a blast. So when you look at the ratings given for comfort, quietness,and performance,understand this is a Jeep and that is part of it. Getting 20 commuting and almost 22 on the highway. This Jeep is much quieter and better riding than the previous Wranglers. BMW drivers seem to turn their noses up at other BMWs thinking theirs is better or something. I have found that nearly every Wrangler driver I meet, young, old, male, female, always wave. Cant beat that.

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  Im Happy With It.. - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By BBK - February 3 - 2:43 am

  This is my first Jeep, although I have owned other 4wd vehicles. This 4 wheel drive system is the best I have had, other have included Ford, Chevy and Toyota. I have the 6 speed manual tranny, I shift quickly and am easy on the gas and average 20.7 MPG (both highway and city). I have the hardtop with the removable sections over the driver and passenger. No leaks after removing them a few times and reinstalling. Open the door in the rain though and you will get a stream of water in the truck as water follows the gap in front and into the vehicle rather than down the glass on a closed front door. Ride is good up front but in the back you sit on the axle making it bumpy. It is what it is.

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  Simply Amazing - 2012 Jeep Wrangler
  By chewmeista - February 2 - 4:04 am

  I have owned 3 different wranglers in my time. This one takes the cake. At first I wasnt sure if I would like the 4 door, but I thought about it for a while, browsed jeep forums and realized that this is the one I need. It seems as though jeep has taken everything into consideration while making the new jeeps. Highly highly recommended.

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  By far the most fun to drive car ever. - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By colorado1974 - January 31 - 2:00 am

  Every moment behind the wheel brings a smile to my face. Sure its bouncy, noisy, windy and frumpy looking but nothing can match its fun-to-drive factor.

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  2003 Rubicon - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By jeffonrubicon - January 31 - 2:00 am

  1st Wrangler. As expected, the ride is truck like and corners and winding roads need to be taken slowly. However in snow and on poor roads, it is excellent. The fit and finish so far are very good. There are a few drill holes on the windshield and and roll bars that do not perfectly align, but work. The manual is sketchy in places. The dealer is very helpful here. The Cruise Control and Airbag Kill Switch are still on order. I replaced a 1988 Range Rover with it, and for what I have for the money I paid, I am thrilled.

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  Hardcore - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By Toozicon - January 26 - 10:00 am

  The Rubicon is the only way to go if you want a Wrangler. For a few bucks more its well worth it! I have been driving sports cars all my life and this is my first SUV...It is a little bumpy at first but lots of fun to drive. The weather has been bad so Ive had limited time with the top off...BUT IT IS AWESOME TO DRIVE when the top is off. Somewhat difficult to deal with the top but I feel that it can be taken down in less than 3 minutes and up in less than five...just takes a little practice.

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  A blast to drive! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Cody - January 26 - 3:13 am

  I love my Jeep! This is the first one I have owned, but when I was little mom had one. It deff takes me back 20 years and I love it as much now as I did then! Door off, top down is the best! Not a lot of power in this little Jeep but I didnt buy it for that. Handling is really good and ride quality is surprisingly great!

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  Lovin It! - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By Rachel - January 25 - 8:00 pm

  Overall, my little beast is a dream come true! I love everything about it (except the gas mileage, but that comes with the territory)! I put a 3.5" Super Flex Rubicon Express Lift Kit suspension lift and a 1.25" body lift to fit the 305x70x16 (original rims) tires. Shes a little monster now! I couldnt have asked for a more fun vehicle to own and drive. Just driving around and watching the heads turn make me love it just that much more!

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  love the looks, hate the handling - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By zmt214 - January 21 - 4:13 am

  This is my second wrangler, my first was an 01 sport automatic(this one is manual) that I had lifted and loved it, besides the acceleration. I recently lifted this jeep 4 inches and put some 35s on it. it looks great but rides terribly. my first jeep rode about 10 times better with the lift, but this one seems the exact opposite. well, it is worse but it wasnt great to start with. it is a very bouncy ride, riding on the interstate is almost terrifying especially when even a slight curve comes up, lousy acceleration and i HATE the death wobble. I havent had any mechanical issues yet with this vehicle but it is my daily driver and it couldnt be any worse of a choice in the way of comfort.