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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  First JEEP! Sahara Unlimtd 4x4 Automatic - 2009 Jeep Wrangler
  By Big Al Choo - February 24 - 3:13 pm

  Wanted one since high school but avid Consumer Reports guy and always drove Hondas and Toyotas. Not so good Consumer Reports ratings for Wrangler but hey, had to have one to see annd experience for myself! So far, so good. Top rating: FUN TO DRIVE! Folks, theres no other 4 door convertible out there and with 2 kids, this is the one that has room to haul the youngsters and the weekend gear! Topless driving is a breeze with the sunrider soft top. Undo the rain flaps and some clamps, and in 5 minutes you have a massive sunroof open to the passenger row. The complete removal takes 2 people and 15 minutes though. Outdoor free air driving: PRICELESS.

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  Satisfied with my 2016 JKU Sport S - 2016 Jeep Wrangler
  By Andrew Pearson - February 23 - 6:34 pm

  Ive wanted a Jeep since I started driving. I never could convince the folks to let me have one. They were concerned about roll over safety issues and below average fuel economy, etc. As an adult I couldnt justify a two door vehicle with a family of 4. Enter the 2007-Current Jeep Wrangler JKU 4dr. I Test drove one in 2007 and liked it; should have bought it, but opted for a great deal on a used Nissan Xterra; excellent SUV, but only 2WD that was $11K less than the Jeep, soooo... Fast forward to 2015. My impulse to buy a Jeep was expedited when I heard rumors of Jeep doing a major redesign on the Wrangler for 2017/18. Not wanting to miss out on any of the things that make Jeep Wranglers cool, it was time to start shopping. Before the 2016 Wrangler Id never had a brand new car, first thing I did was look at used ones to save some money. After an exhaustive search I learned that Wranglers hold their value very well and buying a used Jeep with a bunch of miles, no warranty, and potential issues due to improperly installed modifications, just didnt make sense with only a $2k to $3K price spread between used and new. You better have the full warranty and you dont want to buy somebody elses problem. Buying a new one made the best sense in my opinion. On to what the Wrangler is...Previous to the Wrangler I had a 2009 Buick Lucerne CX; reliable, comfortable, lots of luxury options; a good commuter car, but the fall in crawl out characteristics of a low slung highway cruiser, typically popular with octogenarians, got on my nerves after a while since Im a big guy (63" 240) and im only half way to 80. I only bought it because I needed a highway car just then and the price was excellent. Anyhow, I did have some reservations about going from that to a Wrangler, especially after reading reviews about lack of technology, safety, noise, below average fuel efficiency, blah, blah, blah. However, I have to say that I have been pleasantly surprised. One of the things that impressed me most is that ANY Jeep Wrangler, regardless of trim level, is capable of doing serious off road work right off the lot. Thats just cool! And the extensive after market allows for a zillion custom options to personalize your Jeep; limited only by the size of your imagination and your wallet. The supposed lack of technology doesnt bother me. I didnt use half the stuff on the Buick anyway. The Wranglers ride is different, but after all the Wrangler is a truck; drives like a truck, handles like a truck, as it should. I like trucks; have owned several, so were good. Anybody that expects a Wrangler to have ride and highway manners like a road car has no idea what a Wrangler is for. My 2016 Wrangler Unlimited Sport S has the three-piece hard top; the only choice if you want any kind of security. Speaking of security, Jeep really should have hood locks as a standard option. Batteries are too expensive not to have them. Next noise. Ive read all kinds of reviews about the "noise" of the Wrangler. Honestly, the road/wind noise in my Jeep, with the hard top and the windows up is not any more than I experienced in the Buick. Obviously, the soft top is going to allow more noise, but again the Wrangler is a purpose built vehicle with truck characteristics that isnt for everybody. If comfort and quiet are important, then get another less trail worthy Jeep like a Cherokee or maybe a Cadillac. Anyone considering a Jeep really has to know what they are buying and know what kind of driving they are most likely to do. That said, buying a Jeep Wrangler blind will likely lead to disappointment. I know its being picky, but another thing Jeep should include as standard are door threshold covers. Just about every other car I can think of has them. The exposed, painted surfaces of the rocker panels at the bottom of the doors WILL take a beating. Ive had my Jeep only a short time and they are already showing wear. There are tons of affordable aftermarket solutions, but they should really be covered up from the factory. Itd be a cheap way to rack up customer loyalty points and would take maybe 10 seconds to slapem on at the factory. Lastly a quality issue thats come up has to do with the OE windshield. After only two weeks I got a rock chip in the windshield from rock hauler that sped by. I read online threads indicating that there may be a quality issue with the wind screens chipping/cracking easily. Some owners reported replacing wind screens 4 or 5 times a year, which is problematic and cost prohibitive. Admittedly, my Jeep journey has just begun with less than 1000 miles. The local dealership was very helpful. Jeep online tools appear are quite extensive. I feel I got my 2016 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport S for a fair price ($32K). Time will tell as far as long term reliability, maintenance expenses, dealer/service support, etc., but for now I am quite satisfied. OIIIIIIIO

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  Very Happy - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By JJ - February 21 - 9:06 pm

  Rides much smoother than anticipated. I drive mostly on the highway and its averaging 23-24mpg. The versatility of the vehicle, the styling, and the history of Jeep has made me a fan.

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  disappointed - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By Disappointed - February 19 - 4:36 pm

  Most fun vehicle I have ever owned. Not 1 problem until 36600 miles. Dashboard lit up like a Christmas tree and engine overheated. Overheating caused the head to warp. Dealer said "sorry, bumper to bumper ran out at 36000". Would not back up the vehicle. Really a shame, I would have kept it a long time despite the sluggish motor. There are some things that could use improvement, but the fun factor far out weighed the negatives until it broke.

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  Rude Awakening - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By WDH - February 18 - 3:30 am

  I purchased a 2006 Commander with the 4.7 motor; I had it for a week and the trouble started. Multiple check engine lights, ranging from the MAF sensor, the idle sensor, and then a transmission problem. Then we went on to the service four wheel drive system. This was a part in the transfer case. Three more times with the check engine light. I finally had enough and now I am in the process of getting it bought back under my states lemon law.

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  Great for the price - 1999 Jeep Cherokee
  By J. - February 15 - 10:00 am

  Bought this three years old but only 10K miles. Love the thing...very comfortable, good visibility and performance. Super in snow and ice. The Liberty is a dog by comparison. Jeep should have never dropped the Cherokee.

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  Sad and disappointed - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Time to trade - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I bought this care one year old. I was immediately impressed by the cars comfort and interior styling. It didnt take long before things began to disintegrate, one by one. the dealer just informed me that the entire rear end needs replacing. Estimated cost of another $3000!!!!! I have performed maintenance on this car very religiously. Upkeep has been exhorbitantly expensive and very frequent. Im not Bill Gates, so im trading in.

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  Jeep Liberty is pretty good - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By mike4678 - February 15 - 10:00 am

  The Jeep Liberty is a fine vehicle. It is comfortable and has a solid engine that generates sufficient power for its weight. The radio controls on the steering wheel are quite cool. It feels a little top heavy during tight maneuvering but weve never lifted the wheels off the ground. The steering is tight but sometimes does not want to return to neutral steering, without input.

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  Back to basics.... - 2002 Jeep Wrangler
  By davidb72 - February 12 - 12:30 pm

  I have found my Jeep to be a fun vehicle. My other vehicle is a Mazda Miata, so these two complement each other well. The Jeep is a suprisingly comfortable cruiser. One of the qualities I like most about my Jeep is the ease with which you can customize your Jeep. The aftermarket is full of options. All in all I can safely say that I am very pleased with my Jeep and that I would reccomend the Wrangler without hesitation.

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  Disappointing Reliability - 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By hjhartii - February 10 - 10:00 am

  I bought this gorgeous vehicle at one year old with only 15k miles. It was great at first, but since then Ive spent over $2,500 in major repairs including AC compressor, AC accumulator, heater core, and rear engine seal (100,000 miles). Now the catalytic converter is going to cost $750 to replace! This SUV gets lots of miles put on it, but they are gentle miles. Ive been disappointed by the repair costs.