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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  Looking for fun? This is it! - 2002 Jeep Wrangler
  By backslash - June 1 - 10:00 am

  With a smoother suspension and amenities such as air conditioning and cruise control, this Jeep is at home on the streets AND the trails. The 4.0L inline six provides adequate power for most situations. Coupled with the 5-speed, you can expect a smooth power curve and decent acceleration. Inside, youll find a tight but comfortable cockpit. Headroom is certainly not a problem and the steering wheel is in a comfortable position. The exterior is where this Jeep maintains the closest relationship to its elders. Unique styling that has not changed in decades allows functionality and gives personality.

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  A. Bananas veiw of a jeep - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By Banana - May 26 - 10:00 am

  I think that this car is high quality and high perofrmance endurant. I would change however some of the interior designs, like the seats. My freinds who have Jeeps that are different colors and different years, have the same seat design as i do. I find that annoying cause now i think if i ever sell my old jeep, then Im not going to buy another one cause itll be exactly the same as my old one. you should change the seating in different cars. For example, if you make a red Jeep, make the interior black not brown. Thank You very much for your time. A. Banana

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  Rubicon Unlimited - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By jeff clifford - May 24 - 7:56 am

  Horrible on fuel and surprising lack of power. Probably due to the large tire size and it aggressive nature. The door locks automatically lock when you put the vehicle in drive but only the drivers door unlocks automatically after being placed in park. This is extremely annoying with children and retrieving items from other doors. All things considered, we do love this vehicle and its a joy to drive on a nice summer day w/ the top down. We would certainly buy it all over again as in our case as a second vehicle.

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  get one - 2001 Jeep Wrangler
  By turtle - May 23 - 10:00 am

  problem free since purchase, best car i ever own

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  Best 8 years of my Life! - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By Nancy - May 21 - 11:30 am

  I have enjoyed owning this Jeep so much. The only reason I can see to sell it is I dont recommend putting car seats in it. I loved it in the winter as well as the summer. Its 4 wheel drive, so I never had problems getting where I needed to be. Not even in a blizzard! Its so fun owning a Jeep, especially when you have a hard top, soft top as well as a bikini top. I recommend it to everyone, except if you have an infant to tool around with.

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  Will never own another... - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By lmbrans06 - May 20 - 11:55 pm

  I have always loved the Jeep style so I bought the four door and loved it... until 69,000 miles. Thats when the spider gear went out. It was covered under the lifetime powertrain warranty because I bought it new in 2008. I was told Jeep wouldnt cover it because the spider gear wasnt under the warranty coverage. If the spider gear isnt powertrain, I dont know what is. I threw a fit to Jeep and they finally covered it. It stayed in the shop a week. I went to go get it and was told the axle seals were leaking. So it was gone another week. Got it back and the axle seals were still leaking. They replaced them again. After that, it never worked right again.

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  Fun Jeep - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By Kent - May 20 - 6:16 am

  Have only had my Wrangler for a short while now but that is not to say I do really love driving it. I find the seats very comfortable even though I am tall and the legroom in the front is plenty for me. Ride quality is good and yes it is rough but not jarring. All switchgear is easy to use and straightforward...in fact the whole vehicle is that way...no gimmicks or extras you dont need. We own other cars with the gimmicks so the Jeep certainly doesnt need them. Even though I have the cloth top the interior is fairly quiet although you do notice the wind etc. a little more then with a hardtop. Would definitely buy another one and recommend highly.

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  Have fun while driving - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By TBONE - May 20 - 5:30 am

  I have had this car for about 3 1/2 years now and I have not had any major problems. Very reliable and rugged vehicle. Excellent in the snow, dirt, mud. The rugged tires will get you out of any situation. Jump curbs, logs, boulders. Anything! Basically as far as off road capability you couldnt ask for anything more. The jeep is not a very great in the highway. Its noisy, rough ride (you will feel every bump), and will cost you a lot in gas. (be prepared for that)

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  4 Months And Lovin It - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Mark - May 20 - 3:46 am

  We have owned this 08 Wrangler for 4 months now and totally love it. Reviewers keep harping on lack of acceleration. I have no problems with the V6. It is very sufficient. If you want sports-car acceleration, you should buy a sports car. For Gods sake, this is a SUV. It wasnt designed for extreme acceleration. It truly does everything in an extremely FUN way. You need to test drive one to understand.

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  1st Jeep - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Dave - May 19 - 4:00 am

  I wish i would have bought one 10 years ago! It`s fun to drive. Short and compact. I usually trade my vehicles in every two to three years. I have a feeling I may keep this Jeep for many years.