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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  The Champ Is Here... - 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Patches O Houlahan - January 27 - 4:03 am

  I am the proud owner of a brand new 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee WK. Before you even step in the car you notice the sleek body lines, the cool new look, and the key/remote entry. Once inside, the new car smell hits you and your body conforms to the interior. For the left hand driver, one hand goes to the wheel, the right elbow goes for the center console, and the right hand sits on the shifter. When you begin driving, the smooth, quiet ride are immediately noticed, as well as the nonexistent wind noise. The car accelerates well, able to pass cars with ease.

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  Fool Me Once - 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Jaded - January 25 - 1:23 am

  I wanted to buy a 97/98. Instead, I fell in love with the 99 styling. Ive regretted this for the last 8.5 years. The locks lock/unlock at random, AC fan whines at random, the car shut off while driving at 60mph because the computer didnt recognize the chip in the key, the engine fan relay drained the battery twice, CV boots crack easily, the transmission shifts into 2nd too early, the dashboard and console lights dont always turn on, and the door upholstery cracked. Jeep was only able to fix the chip problem. Ill never buy another Jeep.

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  I love the Commander - 2008 Jeep Commander
  By Garry - January 24 - 6:53 pm

  I love the Commander. I spend about 2 hours a day commuting in this vehicle and it could not be more fun and comfortable to drive! The rear cargo area could be a little more spacious but it works great for what I need. The Commander is so rich looking, inside and out and everyone who gets in it is very impressed.

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  Its a JEEP! - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Myke Tripp - January 24 - 1:50 pm

  Ive owned my Liberty for almost a year. Ive towed a U-Haul trailer to Texas and it had awesome control. Granted, better fuel economy would be nice but Its a Jeep! If I were buying for mileage I would have looked for 26+ but Ill settle for 18-22. It climbs off road terrain like a goat, especially in low 4! So far, I havent had any issues and I keep up on my maintenance. On the Hwy you have to put your foot into it to accelerate to pass, but thats only when Im trying to prove something. All my friends like it but most importantly I do too!

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  Electronics Problems - 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By pixeek02 - January 22 - 11:30 pm

  I have owned a Jeep Cherokee for over 35 years, buying a new Jeep every 4 years or so. I have a 2007 JGC that has frustrated me (and the dealership) beyond all limitations. It seems NOTHING is ever covered by the warranty unless it is convenient. The paint is peeling off numerous places (even the roof, go figure) and that is considered normal wear and NOW the biggie. I have spent over $2500 & at least 4 weeks in the shop to repair an electrical lock & alarm/tire pressure system not working/bright lights working at random problem that (it seems) cannot be repaired by any technician (nor engineer) from the factory. They have replaced module after module (yes, at my expense) to no avail.

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  good 07 Jeep - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By 07 wrangler by Bob - January 22 - 4:53 pm

  Our previous Jeep was a 98 Wrangler SE with four-cylinder, 5 speed manual. The new critter is six-cylinder with a six-speed. Ironically, the highway mileage were getting is better by far at 70 mph than the four-banger got. This Jeep is also quieter with full doors with roll up windows. So far we have had no problems. Lots of plastic on the interior, but its washable so who cares. Plastic cladding over the bumpers is a bit un-Jeep, but everything else is pretty rugged. Sixteen inch wheels are also a plus. We found with the old Jeep that tall skinny tires work best in snow. That is also the experience with the 07 as well. Just go with factory wheels.

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  Love it! - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By Acadia - January 22 - 1:03 pm

  I was a bit nervous going from a 2003 Jetta wagon that practically drove itself, to an SUV, but absolutely love my new Liberty. After a month of driving Im getting 20 MPG and love the visibility of being higher up. The Liberty handles very well, has a very small turning radius and excellent power. Ride is a bit bumpier than the Jetta, but I would expect that from an SUV. Seats are comfortable, it corners well, seems quite stable, and handling is very responsive. Overall, Im extremely happy with my Liberty.

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  Great Jeep, poorly built - 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By JJJaeski - January 21 - 10:26 pm

  This is my first brand-new vehicle. I fell in love with it the moment I test drove the class! I tested the Laredo and found an excellent deal on a Limited, so I took the better options package that come with the Limited. If youre reading this review, you already know the good points of the Limited, so Im only going to focus on the negative: 1. I have had three major leaks that needed extensive re-work of the frame welding around the tailgate. Indicative of poor welding. 2. I have had poorly installed moldings at the driver and passenger door frames; they needed re-installation. 3. Poor gas mileage. All these considered, Jeep warranty replaced and fixed all gripes quickly!

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  Dream come true - 1999 Jeep Cherokee
  By jepguy99 - January 20 - 2:40 am

  I bought this Jeep with 90k on it. I now have 125k just a year and a half later, I have had no mechanical problems whatsoever. I have put a 4 inch lift and 33 inch tires on this Jeep and I am still happy about the gas mileage. It takes me wherever I need to go. The engine is very powerful, I can spin the tires whenever I want. Ive wanted a Jeep since I could remember and I dont plan on ever selling it. If it gets totaled I plan on buying another one. I love it and recommend it to anyone.

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  great car - 2007 Jeep Compass
  By steve - January 20 - 1:10 am

  I have had the car for 1.5 years now. Everything works fine. Car is comfortable. Have had no problems