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:

• 

  Ill never buy a Jeep again - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By R Anderson - May 29 - 1:53 am

  I bought this vehicle for my wife and son. It was the right size (not too big not too small). The problem is quality, Ive had the computer replaced, spark plug replaced and the body molding around the wheel well is loose. The vehicle just cut off for no reason (replaced computer), then a ignition failure light came on and we took to the dealership (replaced the spark plug) but said we needed to get the fuel injectors cleaned (16,000 miles) to fix the problem, $300. I had a Mercedes SUV with 58,000 miles and never had to have the injectors cleaned. When I complained about the moldings being so loose the service department said "we have new Commanders that are worse" that doesnt make it right.

• 

  Driving for the fun of it - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Tom Purcell - May 28 - 11:03 am

  I have enjoyed driving my 2004 Jeep Liberty more than any automobile I have owned. It handles well and has just the right power with the 3.7. The only thing is fuel consumption. Not very good on mileage city or highway.

• 

  The perfect car for me - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Wilson - May 28 - 10:53 am

  This vehicle is nice to look at and so much fun to drive. It is diffinitely not a bumpy riding car. There is plenty of room for storage.

• 

  Peppy performer - 1995 Jeep Cherokee
  By MPcuse1 - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Does a variety of things well,off-road lousy weather, haul stuff. Appreciate the get up and go. Have had some repair work done, breaks(constantly), radiator and various sensors. Overall satisfied considering how hard I abuse it sometimes.

• 

  One and out... - 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Chi Rob - May 28 - 10:00 am

  Same as everyone else, my brakes warped (15k) and had to get them cut. Some annoying vibrations, drive window goes up slow. The a/c comes on now whenever I turn on the vent so I need to get that checked. Its a decent truck, but for the money the quality should be better.

• 

  I love my Jeep! - 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By jengiddens - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I have had no problems with my Grand Cherokee. I love this vehicle! The only drawbacks are not-so-great gas mileage and higher insurance rates.

• 

  So far sooo good! - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By desertjeeper - May 28 - 10:00 am

  This is my first American brand car since 1985. I am very happy with this car to date and not one regret. Traded in a RAV4L, what a difference! Way more fun to drive. Surprised at value for money in comparison.

• 

  Dont Buy It !!!!!! - 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Jeep Grand Garbage - May 28 - 10:00 am

  I bought a 2000 JGC Laredo with all the options. MSRP $32,500. I have resurfaced the rotors twice and then replaced them, replaced fuel pump, 2 new batteries, I have a constant wind noise comming through the front passenger window. I also have an annoying popping noise that comes from the steering column everytime I put pressure on it. I wish I could get rid of this thing ASAP, only I am carrying $10,000 in negative equity due to the poor resale value!!!! Get a HONDA, ACURA, TOYOTA, or NISSAN!

• 

  Gentle power of the Hemi V8 - 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By chazs - May 28 - 2:00 am

  I have the Hemi version, which to my surprise (on test drive) was more fun than 350hp supercharged Z3 i own. It is just plain fun to drive. Comfort and power in what ever combination you require to suit your mood that day.

• 

  Great 3rd Vehicle - 2002 Jeep Wrangler
  By ragarver - May 27 - 5:10 am

  This vehicle is a lot of fun to drive. Pull the doors and roof off and enjoy the sun and beach. This is a well built and very reliable vehicle. Keep in mind, this vehicle has a very short wheel base and will wear you out on a long drive. The original Jeep has limited storage space and but is great for just enjoying a day of sun and fun. Words to the wise, opt. for the larger "Unlimited" or 4DR if this will be your daily driver.