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 Real truth - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Mr. V - November 5 - 1:56 am

  Awesome Jeep. Tight, safe rugged!

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  great vehicle - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By kennedysaura - November 4 - 10:50 am

  Lots of fun around town or off-road, family enjoys local day trips when the weather is just right. Very easy to use 5-speed manual transmission, operation of interior buttons is simple and are a good size (important since the Wrangler is not the smoothest ride). I have just the hard top option, should of gone with the soft top. I was 50 miles away from my home with the top off in the middle of a rain storm. The extra noise from soft top is worth the extra freedom of Michigan weather. I very much enjoy the Wrangler and hope to have it for the next twenty years or so.

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  Lucky # 3 - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By R3DM@N - November 3 - 8:33 pm

  This is my third go-round w/ the Wrangler. I have owned a 95 YJ (College), an 03 TJ(first married), and have now settled into the 4dr JK (w/children). The new 4 doors are functional with the new additions to my family and I do not have to sacrifice driving a cool vehicle. This is not a speed machine by any means, yet is fully functional for on road usage and the offroad capabilities speak for itself. The gas milage is fair given the ride height and lack of aerodynamics. If you own one of these you are in the club. If you want an Escalade experience when driving then keep shopping.

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  utilitarian but who asked? - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By amandamarsh - October 30 - 2:00 am

  My first Jeep, and why did I wait so long? My commute is fun, and if it snows, my sports car can sit it out until Spring. Sure, it is a bit noisy, but it is responsive, practical, and flat fun. And to add to its pleasure - the dashboard doesnt look like the cockpit of the Space Shuttle Endeavor. Like the old VW Beetles, it tells the driver all she needs to know.

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  I love my JK - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jeepin Dad - October 27 - 6:23 pm

  I upgraded from a 89 Wrangler to the 07 with the 6 speed, S-package, freedom top, tow package, rear locker, swaybar disconect, 17" wheel/tire package. The ride is great, the engine is responsive with the 6-speed and 4.10 gears. Gas mileage isnt great, I have been averaging about 18 mpg which is what the sticker said it would get. The seats are comfortable, the height adjustable drivers seat is a nice feature. I really like the removable hard top panels, it takes less time to remove and replace these than it did to put up and down my soft top. I have had it off-road and with the rear locker and swaybar diconnects it performed great. The disconnect really smoothed the ride out.

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  Real Sport Utility - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Wilie KihotE - October 27 - 11:16 am

  Have owned lots of suvs including 3 Jeeps. The Unlimited is the most capable. It can haul more inside than a Grand Cherokee. It tows my trailer with tractor easily. Lot of leg room front and rear. JKs are 4" wider so there is shoulder room. AC is powerful as is heater. The 6 speed is smooth shifting even when it is -11 outside. Nice stereo system. 1st birthday with 18,000 miles. Not a single problem. What else can you ask for? Bottom line: Where else can you get a 4door 4wd, convertible with a great ride and unlimited options for under 20 large? No wood, no leather, no separate climate control, no fleeting styling cues. Just solid performance.

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  2014 4dr Jeep Wrangler manual - 2014 Jeep Wrangler
  By wpotis - October 25 - 5:15 am

  I bought a brand new 2014 jeep wrangler sahara back in September. I drove an automatic and didnt like it at all. Drove the only manual they had on the lot and bought it on the spot. Havent regreted it for a min. Got the hard top, navigation sirius and alpine stereo. This is my 5th jeep and best yet. Everyone that gets in it can not believe how smooth and quiet the ride it. Including my dad who has a Jeep grand cherokee. I will have this vehicle for years to come. Very happy with my purchase especially since we just had our first snow fall here in NJ and it handled beautifully.

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  I love my Jeep! - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
  By surrealistic_star@ya - October 19 - 11:46 am

  My Jeep is the best vehicle I have had. I have, unfortuatley, been rear-ended twice with absolutly no damage to the Jeep at all. Its stock but still a beast off-road, gas isnt too bad. It takes me 45(give or take) to fill up and I get about 250 to a tank around town. 100 miles on the freeway uses about 1/4 tank. The convienence of the soft top is great and fun! I definitely suggest anyone have one at some point in their life at the least!

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  !ow you dont know what your missing! - 1998 Jeep Wrangler
  By keydriver33 - October 17 - 4:23 pm

  i see people complaining about this or that, its a Jeep thing is right. Ive owned several and sure it takes cash to keep them running right,but look at what your getting out of it. I 4-wheel a lot, almost every weekend and I gotta say I always make it back when others dont. My favorite saying as Im passing them is "you wouldnt be stuck if you bought a Jeep". Thanks for your time and lets get out there and have fun in a jeep.

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  So much fun - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By brentg - October 16 - 3:06 am

  This thing is just too much fun. Everything is better than I expected. Longer wheelbase gives it a smoother ride than I expected, the interior is quieter than I expected, and the millage is even slightly better than I expected. The power is what I expected. In low range it will climb anything, and it will easily tow a Toyota FJ out of the mud that you just crossed. On the street, however, you are going to get beat across the light by a Chevette. This thing has been everywhere, up mountain trails, in mud up to the frame, over rocks and boulders, and even stuck in downtown traffic, and it has never disappointed us. Had a great summer, now I can’t wait to get it into the snow.