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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Rubicon Unlimited Owner - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
By Jefferson1964 - July 29 - 2:56 amSo far so good with the Unlimited Rubicon. The ride is nice with the longer wheel base. This has also allowed me to put items in the back I would not have been able to in a standard Wrangler. The extra insulation in the Unlimited has really improved the interior cabin road noise. Minor wind/road noise from the soft top is all and still allows easy conversations.
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My Dream Fulfilled!! - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
By cdnjeepchick - July 26 - 9:56 amI have dreamed of owning a Jeep Wrangler for 25 years. I came close 2.5 yrs ago when I bought my Liberty. I am so glad I waited for this amazing 4-door 4x4. Its everything and more I ever wanted. Was finally able to fold back the sunrider roof and enjoy driving my baby around town, smiling at everyone who looked, doing the wave to other Jeep owners. Way cool!! I highly recommend to anyone who loves their vehicles and loves to have fun. My only "con" was the available colors - while the rescue green is pretty cool, I did go with black but would have chosen the hot "orange" that he Nitro comes in. If that is one persons only complaint - can you really go wrong?? Jeeeepers!!!!
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Its a Jeep thing! - 2000 Jeep Wrangler
By pknps - July 25 - 3:26 pmI love driving my Jeep, and in the winter when the snow hits i have no excuse to get to work! Ill always have a jeep. I see the 2007 Jeeps are looking good. I am not sure I like their back seats being so high. But they can put families in them now. I had to wait till my kids where older to get a Jeep I could use everyday.
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Willys Rocks - 2016 Jeep Wrangler
By Mark - July 24 - 11:26 pmBought a 2016 Willys, Tank Green, half doors, 6 speed manual, soft top (the Northern NJ dealer thought I was nuts between traffic and winter) and love it! Had similarly equipped 91 Renegade and enjoyed that but this new Jeep seems to be of much better quality, more solid to me and gosh is it FUN! And it is cool to look at. I (well, the Jeep) get stares from men and women alike. If you like luxury stuff you best look else where. Sure the ride is a bit rough and there is some instability in the turns at higher speed and it can be a bit noisy - it is a JEEP! As fun as my 325i Bimmer convertible is, I enjoy the Jeep just as much or more. Have yet to take it off road...
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Only in a Jeep - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
By Brian Smith - July 23 - 12:20 amThis is the first Jeep I have ever owned, and I cant believe I have never had one before now. The slogan, "only in a Jeep" is so true. I have been places in my factory Jeep that I would have never dreamed to take a vehicle. I love this thing. No issues with this at all.
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Awesome Jeep Gas Mileage - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
By graycecile - July 22 - 10:00 amMy gas mileage was a little low at first but then about 6000 miles I started watching my tachometer. I decided to keep it below 2000 when driving. Since I have been doing this my mileage as gone from 16.5 to 21.9 on the highway and from 14.5 to 17.5 in the city. I think this is awesome performance from my jeep wrangler. Its not for sale and wont be until I can afford another.
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Fun but unaffordable - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
By dnferg - July 22 - 10:00 amThe major problem with this vehicle is poor fuel economy.
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ADD 4" Skyjacker and 33" All Terrains - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
By KenJeep1978 - July 22 - 10:00 amIve got a X and at 2500 miles I added a 4" Skyjacker lift with 33" tires. I have to say I do believe that is the best compatiblity for Jeep. Gears 1 through 4 are terrific but 5th struggles at high speeds. Just recently drove cross country and hardly saw 70. But that when I remind myself its a jeep. Can also easily tow 2700 pound boat with ease.
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pretty good truck - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
By James - July 21 - 6:00 amJeep is fun. Great to park. Back is very small. A little hard riding but put the top down and you forget all about the ride. I would like to see a little more power out of the engine, might increase gas mileage. 6 cylinder is nice but needs more horsepower. Maybe with a stick it would be better but I got the automatic because of my wife.
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Love it! - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
By showell - July 14 - 10:00 amfun to drive, love it, would buy another
