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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  My 70 Edition Liberty - 2011 Jeep Liberty
  By kenphilr - July 23 - 12:39 pm

  This was the best value for the Dollar in a 4X4. I have had it for 90 Days and love every minute with it. The fuel economy has been 18MPG overall for 4000 Miles. Not bad for 4 Wheel drive.

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  Love my Jeep! - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By Penny - July 22 - 11:06 am

  Love this Jeep Liberty! No problems to date with 63,000 miles. Very reliable, rides great, although a tad bit rough (it IS a Jeep!). Lots of space and head/leg room (Im 60 tall). Only drawback as far as cargo room is that its not as long as other SUVs. Wouldnt trade it!

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  Price + Utility = awesome - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By JohnWayne - July 19 - 4:36 pm

  We were originally looking at an "extended sedan" Malibu Maxx. This has almost identical interior space numbers, almost identical MPG numbers, plus two numbers that put the Jeep on top: 4x4. For pennies more than the "extended sedan", we got a vehicle capable of taking on Minnesota winters. Went all out and got the Freedom Drive II, loaded with every option available. We are amazed by this vehicle and couldnt be happier with it. Never would have considered this vehicle until the Unlimited warranty came out; the peace of mind that it comes with is another solid selling point. We own a Ford truck, Chevy car, and Jeep, and this is the most-capable-for-the-money vehicle that I have ever seen!

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  What are you waiting for? - 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Mike S - July 18 - 6:06 pm

  This is my first Jeep. I drove a Commander a couple years ago while on vacation and didnt hate it, but wasnt pleased. While researching the Highlander and CX-9, I kept seeing ads regarding the all new Mercedes inspired design and amenities. A trip to the dealer convinced me that Jeep got it right this time! The styling, finish and ride are all top notch. I couldnt be happier.

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  From hater to lover - 2015 Jeep Patriot
  By Brian West - July 18 - 11:06 am

  First all the "expert reviews" are way off base. Had to look at the Patriot because of all the incentives expecting to be underwhelmed. We feel we hit the jackpot. Engine power is strong. Transmission is smooth. The so called outdated interior is a breath of fresh air in simplicity. Was never that interested in the Patriot but a $28000 loaded 4x4 for under $23000 was too good to pass up. You should give it serious consideration.

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  FUN !!!! - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By nydave - July 18 - 2:00 am

  Since i was a kid ive wanted a Jeep, but always thought it not uneconomical. Now as a grandfather Ive got my toy, and I LOVE IT !

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  As Good As It Gets! - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By jeepollllo - July 18 - 2:00 am

  Traded my 2000 Sahara for the Rubicon and man this Jeep is as good as it gets. Goes through snow and ice with no problem. Being from Pittsburgh where it hasn not stopped snowing since I have gotten the Ruby. Cant even wait to get this offroad only addition recommended is the winch and your ready for almost anything. Truly is only one...Jeep Rubicon

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  What a SUV is supposed to be! - 1997 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By haflerman - July 16 - 10:00 am

  Ive tried to get stuck in several wild places with this jeep...to no avail. The 4X4 system on these is the best in the world. Wish I could have said that about my Ford explorer or should I say Exploder-the car has 12 repairs in 1 month. All of them major and over $400 each. Ouch! The vehicle just died at 60k. Not my jeep though. Ive driven it over 145,000 miles and have had to do very minor repairs. (Brakes, trans.service, belts, hoses, tires,etc) I plan to drive this car for more than 1,000,000 miles. I believe it will make it.

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  Jeep Forever - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Ron Allen - July 14 - 10:00 am

  Recently bought Jeep Liberty 4WD Sport. Built well,tight,no rattles. Easy to manuver off road and sure-footed. On- road, solid,truck feel,good power. Gas milage is 18 m.p.g. A lot better than my 10 m.p.g. for a 2WD Supercab truck. This wont be my last Jeep. Dealer was the best.

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  Great SUV - 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By jeepyeah - July 14 - 3:13 am

  The 5.7 L Hemi is awesome in the performance it provides. I highly recommend spending the extra money to get the Hemi. You wont regret it.