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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  Replaced Toyota 4x4 - 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Alton - May 25 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle replaced my Toyota 4x4 which I put 220,000 miles on. It had to be good to get me to replace that Toyota and I have not been disappointed. The power from the six cylinder is very suprising. You step on the gas and the acceleration will press you back into the seat. Looking forward to putting 200,000 miles on it. I put 1000 miles on it in a flash it is fun to drive.

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  I love my Jeep, and I wouldnt have it any other way. - 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By purpleman - May 22 - 2:40 am

  Ive read a lot of these reviews and most of the complaints are about the dealerships mistakes, not the vehicle itself. I honestly have nothing bad to say about my my 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo. The 4.7 V8 gives me a lot of power, and the full time 4x4 gives me added traction in any situation. I bought it initially for $5900.00 from a retailer and put another $3000.00 in repairs into it, but since then its just been regular maintenance and it runs beautifully. My one and only complaint is that the sound proofing could be better. Once you get it on the highway it drowns out the radio pretty easily. My jeep just rolled over 215,000k and it runs better than the day I bought it.

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  great ride - 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By dave67@pennswoods.ne - May 20 - 9:26 am

  Owned my Jeep for more than ten years towed 23 ft fishing boat for 8 of them this Jeep is amazing I have over three hundred and thirty thousand and have done very little I replaced tranns at three hundred thou along with one front axel one rear originally water fuel and power steering pumps I have used Lucas products and I highly recommend a buying a Jeep busing Lucas oil products I cant tell you enough great things about this Jeep put a set of bf all terrains she handles like no other ac always cold even with as many miles as I have on it

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  my first jeep - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By mollysmommie - May 20 - 9:26 am

  I just traded my 2005 dodge neon in for my 2009 jeep patriot. I test drove it all day because I loved it so much I didnt want to give it back to the dealer!!! It isnt a huge suv for a small girl, but was still everything I need and want in a reliable vehicle. I love the bright blue color, i get a lot of compliments on the color and it drives soo smooth! all around great car for my money. my husband wants one now too!!! I love my patriot. it is ready to start a family in it. perfect for a 23 year old that travels pretty far to work everyday.

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  The BEST Vehicle I have ever bought ! - 1998 Jeep Cherokee
  By Jessica - May 16 - 12:53 am

  I bought mine back in 2005 it is 2WD and it had 90,000 on it. The price was right so I couldnt pass it up. I am so glad I bought that Jeep, this May will be 5 years that I have had it, and I have only a few repairs. I replace a water pump at 145,000, and a clutch at 180,000. Other than that it has been only your basic up keep. I now have 220,000 on it! Its still going strong, this vehicle has sat put year round in the MN cold and it has always started, not once has it not. Everything still works great in it except the air did go out at 183,000. I will never get rid of my Jeep its been awesome! It is sad to know that they did stop making them after 2000.

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  Surprisingly good - 2007 Jeep Liberty
  By Jim S - May 15 - 4:20 pm

  Hi, I bought my jeep as my first new car. Its been reliable, has a great 4wd system that allows shift on the fly at 50 mph! Its the limited with all the bells and whistles - which is the only downfall. Though a steal price versus options, the premium sound doesnt play mp3s and the roof rack system is a step down from the Cherokee. The trunk is small. But, its reliable, does well both on and off the road, through snow, mud, and cities. parking is excellent as its the size of civic. handling is very sharp and acceleration is good

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  One month and 1100 miles into my 16 JGC - 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By MDRRI - May 14 - 10:40 am

  Cant comment on reliability because its still new. However, the driving experience is fantastic. I traded a 2013 200 convertible with the 3.6-litre Pentastar. Its a sweet engine, and its even better with the 8-speed transmission behind it. Im averaging 20-21 MPG with short freeway runs and some around-town puttering. Thats much better than I expected, and not much worse than the 200. I bought it from an out-of-state dealership and drove it 450 miles home from the showroom (averaged 25 MPG on that run with speeds between 65 and 70 MPH - great for a brand new engine). Its a fantastic road-trip car. Comfortable, nearly silent on the highway, firm and supportive front seats with plenty of leg room, and an overall feeling of confidence and stability. This thing has all the hallmarks of a luxury car. The 8.4 uConnect with Nav is easy to operate and the big screen makes changing settings easy. The voice recognition works well, too. Minor quibbles: I wish the wiper control was on a stalk on the right side of the steering column - a quick flick of the finger for a mist wipe is easier than a twist of the turn signal lever; I would like the steering wheel to telescope out further as I like to sit way back (I can still be comfortable, but I would be more comfortable with the steering wheel a bit closer). The base audio system is not bad, though I have ordered Focals from Crutchfield to upgrade the speakers. All said and done, this is a great vehicle - comfortable, solid-feeling, and reasonably economical considering its capabilities. I believe it holds its own as far as features, comfort, and roadability when compared to high-end SUVs costing thousands more, which makes it a bargain. What remains to be seen is how it holds up over time. So far, so good, but its still brand new. If it turns out to be reliable I will keep it until the wheels fall off. I have owned Chrylser vehicles for many years and theyve all been great, so I have hope for this one. Update at two months and 3300 miles. MPG is up to 27 on road trips with the cruise control set at 75 and the AC cranking. Still averaging 21-22 puttering around suburbia. It seems the AC could be a little more powerful - my only complaint. Still loving my JGC!

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  Jeep, everything you want in an suv. - 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Jeep4me - May 13 - 10:00 am

  I just picked up my new jeep about a month ago, paid a little under 400 a month for the lease, and i must say i am extremely satisfied with this car. Though i know it will chug a lot of gas, i truly enjoy the drive of this car and the seats are the most comfortable seats i have ever had the pleasure to sit in.

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  Great Car - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By NHVT - May 13 - 3:46 am

  I love it. It has been a great vehicle so far. The gas mileage is what I expected. The extra room is appreciated and the overall feel is classic Jeep at its best!

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  Cherokee tops Honda CRV ..USA,USA, USA - 2017 Jeep Cherokee
  By Edgar - May 12 - 11:39 pm

  I just purchased a 2017 Cherokee Latitude a few weeks ago, and continue to be impressed. To put it in perspective, I also have a 2016 Honda CRV and can make a good comparison now. I had shopped both cars and negotiated rock bottom deals on both. The sticker price of the Jeep was $36K but with big rebates to be had the price of both cars ended up within $100 of each other, or $27.5K out the door going with their mid level trim; Latitude for the Jeep and EX for the CRV. But compare what I got in terms of value: Power: the 6 cylinder engine of the Jeep is is much more powerful and smooth than the 4 cylinder in the Honda..a 90 hp difference..advantage Jeep. Convenience: The Jeep has Power tailgate, Much better/larger LCD Infotainment System, Remote Start, More Adjustable and comfortable power front seats Auto Mirror, integrated 911 system etc not on the CRV. The CRV came with heated seats and the blind spot camera, both nice things but not of the value of the Jeep. Utility: The Jeep came with Roof Rails, Tow package (can tow 4500 lbs!), and full size spare. Honda did not include roof rails at that price point or tow hitch, and can tow only 1500 lbs if so configured. Advantage Jeep. Design: The Jeep has a unique outdoorsey presence about it, with off color stitching. The Honda is a good design, but more boring. The Jeep has a full panoramic sunroof, while the Honda just has a small standard one. 4WD: The Jeep has adjustable settings of the drive system, not to mention higher ground clearance and approach angles. While not a Trailhawk, the Jeep Latitude wins vs the CRV re offroad capabilities. Ride Quality: This is a big factor.:The Jeep is as smooth as can be; The Honda is great compared to other small SUVs and has an impressive CVT transmission but compared to the Jeep ride quality is not as good and does not feel as substantial. Especially on long highway trips, the Jeep with the V6 is just a better place to be and feels like a luxury car. In fairness the CRV scores some points with more cargo room, better mpg, and the blind spot camera. So in terms of Value, the Jeep is the clear winner and would even be worth the sticker price. In terms of reliability, I guess that is TBD, but the Jeep seems impressively solid and unstressed. If that is a big concern, Jeep offers an insane Lifetime/Unlimited Miles Warranty Upgrade for $2-3K. Being an import car buyer since 1982 ( my CRV was assembled in Canada), I am now changing my perception. Honda and CRV are always rated at the top of pack, and there are some outdated perceptions out there that imports are somehow better. Jeep Cherokee has one of the highest US contents of any vehicle. It is great to support fellow hard working Americans who make a product that is world class. USA, USA, USA!!