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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  A real 4x4 vehicle - 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By dues711 - September 19 - 2:00 am

  This Jeep has exceeded all expectation. Its full time 4 wheel drive with Quadra Trac II transfer case The 4.7 V8 with full tow package oil and tras coolers make this Jeep a real workhorse. It has had minor problems considering I abuse this truck. It goes through mud, snow, climbs and forges water like its made for. Yes I have replaced the rotors 3xs but thats because of the inferior Asian steel that they are made of. replace with a set of slotted rotors & ceramic pads problem solved. Im running LT truck tires instead of the P passenger car tires it comes with. rides a little stiffer but a small sacrifice for towing and off road use. I did replace an axle bearing in the rear but at 100k!

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  Great Mid-size SUV - 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By TJ - September 18 - 7:10 pm

  Very happy with purchase. We have had no problems with the vehicle (62,000 miles). It rides great. This is my wifes primary car and used for all long long family trips. Ive looked at and drove other SUVs and feel Jeep just designs them better.

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  Rugged Fun - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By BcYeg - September 17 - 10:10 am

  This vehicle brings me back to my old CJ-7, except my feet dont get hot and I can haul small children with me too. It has a solid feel, powerful acceleration and great braking. It handles the mud great. On-road driving has a confident, sturdy feel. The new fog lamps cut the fog like a knife. The "modern" extras make it really fun to drive.

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  awesome - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By czardoz1 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  It doesnt get any better.

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  Wrangler X - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By KimmyB77 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I love my Jeep Wrangler X. It is the ultimate off road vehicle, and fun to drive on the street too. It has never given me any trouble, and is very reliable.

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  Jeep Liberty - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By WMorrell - September 16 - 2:00 am

  Easily moves in and out of tight spaces. Quick response time.

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  This is the BEST car I have ever owned ! - 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By ToniAnn - September 16 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. I have had no problems with this car and we drove to and from NJ to Florida, with two children and a dog. We have a very comfortable ride. No problems whatsoever! This is a great reliable car and we would make the decision to buy another one in a heartbeat !

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  Best of All - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By Tucson4wheel - September 15 - 9:53 am

  Already own a Yukon XL and am a dedicated GMC owner. Needed another but smaller SUV. Looked at everything including H3 and BMW X5. Commander blew me and the competition away. Got fully loaded Commander. Just love it. Fun to drive, great price. Very quick. Extremely comfortable. Quality is very high. Dont waste money on BMW, Lexus, or Cadillac. Commander is better than all of them at at least $10,000 less.

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  My second Jeep - 2007 Jeep Liberty
  By rich mercer - September 14 - 12:53 pm

  I love it so much, I bought a second one and will buy a third because it meets the needs of my family living on a mountain. Handles tight hilly roads even in the sleet & snow. Roomy enough inside for my large frame. Covered expandable cargo area carries stuff from mulch to the larger unexpected garage sale treasure. My wife bought one too.

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  Couldnt be Happier - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By SteveK18 - September 12 - 11:06 pm

  This Jeep has a great interior, and I find the seats very comfortable. Lots of interior room, good power, great stereo. Havent heard any squeaks or rattles, and havent had one problem in 4 months. It looks great, it drives great in snow, and it makes me smile each time I get in.