Overview & Reviews

If you're thinking about purchasing a vehicle rugged enough to finesse rocky trails, chances are, one make comes to mind: Jeep. This specialty automotive manufacturer has a long history of producing trucks and SUVs capable of off-highway adventures — so much so that the term jeep is used by many to refer to all SUVs, whether the vehicle in question is a true Jeep or not.

Jeep took root in WWII as the name of the now-iconic four-wheel-drive military vehicle produced by Willys-Overland and Ford for the U.S. Army. The name's origin is somewhat of a mystery; popular belief is that it morphed from "GP," or "general purpose," though others have suggested that it was a nickname derived from a character featured in the Popeye comic strip of the time.

The mid-1940s saw the introduction of the first civilian Jeep, the CJ-2A. It offered many features not available on military versions, such as a tailgate, an external fuel cap and a side-mounted spare tire, and was targeted mainly toward farmers and construction workers.

Civilian Jeeps caught on with the public, and by the 1950s, new models such as the CJ-3B and the CJ-5 had been introduced. The CJ-5 had the longest production run of any Jeep vehicle, continuing for 30 years after its introduction in the early '50s. The company changed owners during this decade as Willys-Overland was sold to Kaiser in 1953.

Jeep broke new ground in the 1960s with the debut of its Wagoneer. Geared toward active families, this early SUV was the first four-wheel-drive vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission. A new "Dauntless" V6 became available as an option on the CJ-5 and CJ-6 in 1965. This was the first time that a Jeep CJ could be equipped with a V6. Packing 155 horses, the engine's horsepower almost doubled that offered by the standard four-cylinder.

By the 1970s, Jeep had changed ownership yet again, with the purchase of Kaiser-Jeep by American Motors Corporation. New models like the CJ-7 and the Scrambler were rolled out. Additionally, the company unveiled some new technology with the introduction of the world's first automatic full-time four-wheel-drive system. Dubbed Quadra-Trac, it was available in the CJ-7 as well as in full-size Jeep trucks and wagons. During this decade, Jeep's fortunes soared as four-wheel-drive vehicles became increasingly popular with large sections of American buyers.

The 1980s saw the introduction of the Cherokee and Wrangler. The Cherokee was one of the first of the new breed of SUVs — high-riding midsize wagons that skyrocketed in popularity as the decade progressed. The Wrangler replaced the CJ series in 1987 and offered the raw functionality of the CJ along with more comfort features. That year also saw the purchase of American Motors by Chrysler, with the Jeep brand becoming part of Chrysler's Jeep/Eagle division. One of Jeep's most popular models, the Grand Cherokee, debuted for 1993. This handsome, midsize SUV offered considerably more comfort and luxury than the smaller Cherokee while still providing stout off-road capability.

Jeep fell under the umbrella of DaimlerChrysler after Chrysler and Daimler-Benz merged in 1998. This partnership resulted in a few new models, such as the Liberty and Compass, though none were able to attain great sales success. In 2007, Daimler sold the Chrysler Group to a private equity firm. It is now under control of Fiat.

More recently, the company has added a couple of enticing models to its lineup (including a four-door version of the Wrangler and the pavement-scorching Grand Cherokee SRT8) and made substantial performance and quality improvements under the hoods and within the cabins. As such, we expect Jeep will not only maintain a loyal group of customers but will also bring new fans into the fold.

User Reviews:

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  Worst of 6 - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Dan - May 2 - 1:06 am

  My 6th Wrangler. 5th new one, bought on 10/10/07 in Barberton, Ohio. Love the Wrangler vehicle, but this one does not compare to my other ones. Body style is awesome and comfortability is fine. Problem is the clutch is going out. Never had it off road and Ive driven a standard shift my entire life, so I know how to drive one. Took it to the dealer yesterday and the tech told me it was the bearing that pushes in on the clutch was rusting. Causing the bearing not to spin properly. Touch the clutch pedal and the squealing stops. They ordered the part and said I could get it put in next Wed or Thur. Then the service writer called me back and said it was not covered under warranty.

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  GREAT VEHICLE - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By B - May 1 - 7:16 pm

  I have had my Liberty for almost 4 years now and I have really enjoyed it. Its been great, Ive had no major issues with the vehicle at all. I purchased it used and I have been very pleased, this had been my first used car purchase ever so I was a bit leery at first. Im very satisfied with my choice.

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  This Jeep is a Champ - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By Littlewing - May 1 - 1:16 pm

  Chrysler totally blew it when they discontinued this model in a pathetic attempt to court the soccer mom set. They have yet to produce anything even close and now they are looking for a government hand out? That 4.0, 6 cylinder is rock solid and has plenty of power. The is a simple vehicle that any mechanic and most back yard tinkers can work on. I use mine for commuting, back country trout fishing, beach driving and towing my boat. It has over 120k miles(just a pup) and it has cost me almost nothing in repairs. I have owned a Trooper, 4Runner and a Grand Cherokee. This little SUV beats them all hands down. Wake up Chrysler give us back our real Cherokee and maybe youll even turn a profit.

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  Cherokee - 2016 Jeep Cherokee
  By Anthony sortino - May 1 - 2:26 am

  Great car but should have got the V-6. U connect not worth the 895. Overall good car except for 4 cylinder

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  I love my Jeep - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By Tyler - April 28 - 9:10 pm

  I love my Jeep Wrangler. I love the feel of driving it along with just being in it. It gives you a sense of power because you can sit above the rest of the traffic. I have modified mine to fit 36" tires with 6.5 inches of lift. It works wonders offroad.

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  Great choice-1st Jeep - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By m. coon - April 27 - 4:36 pm

  For my first Jeep, I am very satisfied with my choice. This SUV does well with the mpgs and is sharp looking too. The ride is comfortable and the interior is spacious. The cargo area is a little small, but manageable. I think if you are looking for an SUV that is economical...this is it!

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  Could use some improvement - 2007 Jeep Liberty
  By Colorado - April 27 - 11:00 am

  Overall my Liberty has been a decent vehicle. Handles mountain snowstorms with ease. Like everyone else I have had issues with window regulators failing. Also had to replace the transmission after only 30k miles. Gas mileage isnt great but no surprise with an SUV.

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  SoFarSoGood - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By scwad - April 25 - 2:00 am

  Leased very inexpensively for 36 months. Had 23k when acquired. Getting ready to buy a Mountaineer or turn in. Have had no problems, but hear about all the expensive tranny and brake problems.

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  tire pressure monitor problems - 2008 Jeep Commander
  By newbox - April 23 - 1:33 pm

  Love the commander but there is a problem with the tpms and I am told by dealer it can not be fixed

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  love hate relationship - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By tjm4349 - April 21 - 2:00 am

  our first suv. wife loves looks and handling of vechicle. horrible on gas, am getting 15-16 mpg mostly city. lack of storge and placement of window controls.