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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  Trail Rated Jeep Patriot - 2008 Jeep Patriot
  By Bill - February 20 - 7:10 pm

  Had the Pat a year its been a great Jeep. The Trail Rated package is the only way to go it sits 1 inch higher w/ full skid plates, crawl 4x4, good stuff. Great mpg and fun to drive - the Jeep Dealer has taken great care of us on oil changes and free tire rotation. Ive owned a lot of Jeeps this one carries on a great tradition. Thanks Jeep. Just paid it off so I like it even better now.

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  05 Renegade Review - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By 05Renegader - February 20 - 5:33 pm

  Recently purchased 05 Liberty Renegade. Black, 4x4, V6, Auto, 6 CD changer w/tow pkg. The new Liberty has upgraded looks and styling. They now have a more rugged appearance by raising and flattening the hood/grill area, thus eliminating the "bug-eyed" look of earlier models. The ride is very comfortable and the engine feels strong and accelerates smoothly. The seats feel better and the overall ride is relatively quiet and smooth. Other makes and models I drove were whiny and not as refined as the Jeep. The instrument controls are all easy to access and operate. Fuel economy lacks, but I would not want to take away from the positive engine performance characteristics.

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  absolutely indestructible - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By samnkiki - February 19 - 4:13 am

  Father drove it home brand new off the lot in 1998 from lous jeep eagle in Geneva illinois. Its in my garage as I write this next to the wifes Acura mdx. I cant put into words how amazing this vehicle is. I refuse to buy another car until she dies on me. 311,346 thousand miles and aside from tires batteries belts lights. .ya know wear items. ..shes been solid as titanium! Years ago when roads were impassable I was passing hummers and other "4wd" vehicles.

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  Liberty CRD 4x4 - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By John P. Mc Fall - February 18 - 4:26 am

  The Jeep is powerful, can turn around on a dime and gets good diesel mileage. I love it. I would buy it again. It needs more cup holders in the drivers area in front of the vehicle thats all.

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  This Jeep is tough - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By Great Jeep - February 18 - 2:00 am

  I have put this jeep through alot in the few months that ive owned it(car accident that almost totaled it) After that it came back better then before surprising to me. This vehicle has had new pads and the rotors turned once nothing to bad sinc i did it myself. Starts fine when the temp dips below 0. Very good vehicle.

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  Great Truck - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By Tito672378492 - February 18 - 2:00 am

  For those of you out there the News 2003 Jeep Liberty is a great new vehicle. With a choice of two four-wheel drive systems. Three different modles, Sport, Limited and the awsome Renegade. All with excellent off road capabilities. As well as off road, on road driving is superb, with a smoother ride than cherokee, and larger interior space for that added head and leg room. The 2003 Liberty is a jeep for all.

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  Love my Liberty - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By nzimmon - February 18 - 2:00 am

  This is a great vehicle! Yes, the gas mileage could be better but every other aspect of this Jeep is a delight. The build quality is outstanding; not a single problem since I bought it last October. Its fun to drive and I find its handling better than what the reviews seem to indicate. Handling is tight and solid...Consider this vehicle if youre looking for a well-built, fun to drive, and capable off-road SUV.

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  Just get it. - 2009 Jeep Wrangler
  By klhorn - February 17 - 10:20 am

  Like most reviewers I was always a very cautious car owner. I test drove a Wrangler and had one ordered and signed for within the hour. Fun to drive, handles great, just an overall fun toy. I would highly recommend the power package, as well as the upgraded sound system. The bass is amazing! Nothing beats a nice Wrangler, with the top down after a long day at work.

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  GET A JEEP COMPASS - 2012 Jeep Compass
  By harding2 - February 15 - 10:45 am

  After a few months of owning my 2012 Jeep Compass I can confidently say that I Love It! I read so many reviews saying the gas mileage isnt good but those people must have a lead foot! I get 26-27 mpg highway and about 23 in town. I got this vehicle for a steal with only 40,000 miles on it. Mine has the Bluetooth features, calling capabilities, satellite radio, 4x4 / tow package, etc. all for under $15,000! Such an upgrade from my tiny little car (which I loved as well). Took me forever to decide on an SUV with good reviews and this one was it! Dont hesitate buying one! Drives great in the snow too! LOVE IT!

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  Going for 300K miles! - 1995 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By James Rosenburg - February 13 - 10:00 am

  Bought a Limited V8 new and have racked up over 245K miles on it trouble free (besides regular maintaince) I have only replaced the radiator, new hoses and belts and numerous sets of tires. I use this truck for business sales and its the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned! Just bought a new Grand Cherokee and gave this one to my daughter for college!