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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  First jeep - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By Hugo - June 5 - 6:10 am

  My first jeep it came loaded with nice rims and lifted, put cold air intake, throttle spacer and new exhaust without messing with my warranty I gain about 38 extras ponies and a little bit more in torque same deal with gas looking forward to drive my jeep in the sand south texas

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  Just As Expected! - 2011 Jeep Wrangler
  By Dano0726 - June 2 - 10:00 am

  Took only 5 weeks from order to delivery. 2011 interior is designed far better than 2010/prior JKs. Dash layout is exceptional. Whatever you give up in fuel economy, you gain in (1) Jeep ruggedness (2) Jeep resale (3) Jeep recognizeability (4) just an ultimate Jeep coolness I cant keep wife + daughter away from Mac Daddys ride!

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  Ahhh the JEEP! - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Bob Dog - May 29 - 2:56 am

  At 68,000 miles it has been- Totally reliable, actually getting better mileage than rated for, a pure joy to drive. This is a vehicle that is F-U- N! Wow, very, very pleased. Its exactly as advertised. Rugged, dependable, all road and all weather capable. The on & off road vehicle of choice. PLUS, wow compact size and tight turning radius makes parking/driving in the big much more relaxing.

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  Wrangler - 1993 Jeep Wrangler
  By rwdc - May 29 - 2:00 am

  I had the opportunity to get a low milage older model Wrangler. I have had no problems with it and would highly reccommend it to anyone without a family.

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  Great 3rd Vehicle - 2002 Jeep Wrangler
  By ragarver - May 27 - 5:10 am

  This vehicle is a lot of fun to drive. Pull the doors and roof off and enjoy the sun and beach. This is a well built and very reliable vehicle. Keep in mind, this vehicle has a very short wheel base and will wear you out on a long drive. The original Jeep has limited storage space and but is great for just enjoying a day of sun and fun. Words to the wise, opt. for the larger "Unlimited" or 4DR if this will be your daily driver.

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  jeep review - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Garrett Lynn - May 26 - 12:36 am

  The jeep wrangler is a fun to drive trail capable vehicle. It is enjoyable yet lacks in creativity and is kind of stone age in its fuel injection system along with its less than arrowdinamic look. With a little more work it has the potencial of excellence in many fields yet the biggest step needs to be in millage and not just a bigger tank either. We also need to go back to lock out hubs and the paint job was weak with many thin spots where the under coat sees through. It also needs LIMITED SLIP

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  Great machine! - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By Mark - May 23 - 10:20 pm

  Bought this for the bush mostly. Surprisingly quiet on the road. No rattles, tough as nails. Yet supple ride. Will get a performance chip to improve mileage. Along with a K & N air filter and HID lights. Thoroughly happy! P.S. Im 67 years old! Never too late.

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  super suv - 1999 Jeep Wrangler
  By justafriend - May 22 - 10:00 am

  I have had my jeep wrangler for almost 4 years now and it has been a blast. every time i get behind the wheel i feel like i just got my drivers license! They are really well made to tackle anything you throw at them especially off-road! jeeps can go anywhere and do anything vehicles. Buy one today and see for yourself!

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  Nothing Like It! - 2005 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jason - May 19 - 8:03 pm

  If you ever thought about getting a Jeep Wrangler, DO IT! You only live once and I can tell you its worth every penny. I bought new in June 2005. Had the top down all summer. Not as hard as I thought to put back up (less than 5 minutes). Top seals up perfect for Autumn. This past winter I drove my girlfriend to work in a blizzard (biggest recorded in NYC). It handled great. I owned a 1984 CJ7 when I was 19. This Jeep is so much more civilized. I have an "X" edition with a Rocky Mountain package. LOVE IT.

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  Not a good all around vehicle - 1995 Jeep Wrangler
  By Ryan - May 17 - 4:30 am

  The gas mileage is terrible for a 4 cylinder especially if you plan on any form of oversized tires. I had better gas mileage in my 8 cylinder Firebird. This car has absolutely no power, it is terrible on the highway. The suspension is so loose that you feel every single little bump. Do not consider a Jeep unless you are buying it strictly for off-road use.