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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  Outstanding! - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By curtpenn - June 30 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Liberty for almost 1 year and 14,000 miles now. Only been in the shop once soon after we got it to adjust a few things (rear windshield latch needed to be tightened). I got about 13-14 mpg until around 7,000 miles (in town driving). Now always get 17+ around town. Love the design, rock-solid feel, and nimble handling. I have 2 kids near driving age and will strongly consider getting a used one for them in a couple of years. Couldnt be more satisfied.

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  Takes Getting Used To - 2004 Jeep Wrangler
  By VTer - June 30 - 10:00 am

  Havent owned a Wrangler for several years so pleasantly surprised with improvements in drivability but a bit disappointed with the harsh ride, noise, and poor mileage. But then again - its a Wrangler! Best advice is to take an extra long test ride before you decide to buy. When we first took our Wrangler home my wife my wife got sick from the bopuncy ride. Now she can fall asleep on the highway - just takes getting used to it.

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  Hot Rod Jeep - 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Erie CPA - June 29 - 5:46 pm

  This machine is awesome! Fast, solid and fun to drive. You dont buy it for the fuel economy!

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  Very pleased with our 05 Hemi GC Limited - 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Chas - June 29 - 3:10 pm

  Let me say right up front that my wife and I love our new GC. Like any vehicle it has a few quirks and some weaknesses, but they are few and far between. The integrated feel of the steering, engine, brakes and transmission tell me that Daimler had an influence on the redesign of the GC. Even the sound/feel of the doors closing shows a refined level of engineering and manufacture. I am much more confident with New York driving on washboard sections at curves thanks to the independent front suspension. The previous GC models could not keep up with the road surface and would attempt to leave the ground. The new model feels safer all around. Seats are great, sound is great with the fader set for full rear.

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  Bills review - 2017 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By william dalessio - June 28 - 11:19 pm

  difference between 4x4 on laredo and limited.

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  Best Jeep I Have Ever Owned - 2010 Jeep Wrangler
  By WayneS - June 28 - 3:30 pm

  I have owned a CJ5, CJ2A, M38, M38A1 and a Commando- all VERY capable off-roaders which required certain “compromises” when driven on pavement. My new Rubicon is not only head and shoulders above every other Jeep I have owned in off-road capabilities, it is well-behaved on paved roads. Seats are comfortable, ride/handling better than adequate - it is pretty quiet-riding. But, it IS a Jeep, with off-road oriented tires, short wheel-base and convertible top. Those who expect the handling, ride and comfort of a CAR will be disappointed by it. I knew what I wanted and what to expect when I bought a Jeep. This Rubicon very capably delivers what I want, and has EXCEEDED what I expected.

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  Initial thoughts - 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By motor city - June 28 - 6:33 am

  Only driven a few miles. But I thought Id compare to previous 96 and 99 models I owned. I tested the Pilot, which handled typically like a front wheel drive bus, and both V8 & 6 cyl 4Runners, which drifted all over the road at highway speeds, and settled for another JGC because of in- laws employee discount and several rebates (financing, military, and general= $2500). Options included tow pkg. (class IV), 28F (v8), cargo grp. Stickered $32+K paid $26K plus taxes & plates.

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  my ride - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By ecstasy - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Its defenitely a step down from my explorer in comfort/size. However I get better milage and better performance. It handles dirt roads at fast speeds and in 2-wheel-drive mode it can smoke the tires. Responsive accelerator, not the best braking. Very small in the back compared to a Ford Explorer. My roomate who is 65" hates it because it is too small. The ladies love it.

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  Id always wanted one... - 1997 Jeep Wrangler
  By jstevep00 - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I always wanted a Jeep and finally I bought the 97 Wrangler used a few months ago. Im happy so far. I love driving it and actually think the noise and discomfort arent nearly as bad as I thought theyd be, even with my soft top. I love off-roading it (spins donuts really well due to the short wheelbase), but havent done any hardcore stuff yet. Love driving in summer with the top down and the heat in the winter kicks butt. Fun, comfortable, and more versatile and unique than anything in its price range. I agree, a little weak with the 2.5 and gas mileage still sucks.

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  Great Concept - 2003 Jeep Liberty
  By Doctor - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Most of our driving is in the outskirts of a major city, so the restricted side view was hard to get used to. 16K plus in the last year, its a terrific vehicle to drive. Two long road trips, both very comfortable. Off road in the Virginia mountains- Excellent performance. Not challenged at all by National Forrest trails. Replace the standard 16 tires ASAP with lower profile/wider skins- DRAMATIC improvement in all on/off road driving characteristics and stability. Thinking of buying another in a couple of years.