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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  Its a JEEP! (-: - 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Brandi - February 17 - 10:00 am

  Great vehicle. Bought used a year ago with 103,000 miles on it. Now has 130,000 on it and no problems other than preventive maintenance(things that need to be replaced at 100,000+ miles). Had 86 Cherokee with 230,000 when I got rid of it and FIL has 91 Cherokee with 250,000+ on it so I know I have many miles left. Regretted getting rid of mine til I got this one. Glad to be back in a Jeep! People who say otherwise should think about how it was cared for before making a judgement on quality. If well-cared for, will last for many miles.

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  Fun, reliable and jugs down gas - 2003 Jeep Wrangler
  By El Chamuquin - February 17 - 10:00 am

  The Jeep is definetly a fun filled vehicle. It says "I have no boundaries and nothing to tie me down". If you want a fun car to drive this is it. But keep in mind that this is a brute that will go through some gas quick. With all the technology today you think they could make it a little more gas efficient. Have no doubts, this vehicle isnt made for paved roads, but for the outback. Its only true use isnt in a concrete jungle but four wheeling out in the countryside. As a fun vehicle it has no match, as a city vehicle it could use some modifications.

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  Grand Cherokee Believer - 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By J.Pasquarello - February 17 - 4:16 am

  I purchased my first SUV in May of 2003. It was a 2000 Grand Cherokee with 24,700 miles. I had read the reviews about all the brake issues with the GCs and expressed my concern to the dealership. They did not deny that brakes were an inherent problem for that model year and preceding years. He did say however that Chrysler had a fix for them with beefed up components etc. They agreed to redo all the brakes on the car if I were to purchase it. I did and I have had no problems at all with the brakes. The ride is not as smooth as I would like but it is a JEEP. I have been very happy with it!

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  My prayer was answered - 2001 Jeep Cherokee
  By Mimi - February 16 - 5:56 pm

  I could not leave this site without commenting. My jeep was stolen last week and I only prayed that I would get it back, not totalled. My prayer was answered! I am a 67 year old grandmother who takes her grandkids (and friends)everywhere. Seven years of car seats and kids in and out, no problem. I cannot imagine having to replace this vehicle, at least not anytime soon. I would have had to find another 2001 Cherokee Sport if need be! Have never had any major problems, which I attribute to proper maintenance. Love My Jeep!

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  Great Small SUV - 2007 Jeep Patriot
  By Naten53 - February 16 - 5:06 am

  I purchased mine 18 months ago. For a compact suv it performs exactly as expected. The best feature by far is the size compared to the fuel economy. Only complaints are because it is a small suv you do not have the storage capacity of large suvs however it is great for someone that does not need the large suv everyday. I have had it through two Pittsburgh winters and 4wd on farm roads and it has never had trouble (driving with caution in bad conditions of course).

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  2005 Grand Cherokee Great Buy - 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By mtndog46 - February 15 - 9:50 pm

  We looked at and drove Toyota 4Runner, BMW X5, Land Rover LR3 and several other midsize SUVs before buying the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ltd. We love the ride, power and agility of the Hemi powered GC. The fully featured GC with Nav, auto dimming head lights and redesigned front suspension is a joy to drive. Take one for a test drive, you wont be sorry.

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  Performs flawlessly and gets me anywhere - 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By Jeeper05 - February 15 - 6:23 am

  I am a hunter and use this Jeep a lot and use it hard. Even with the 4x4 Quadtrac 1 system, it gets me through the mud, sand, deep water, through brush and up and down hills great. I never get stuck. Not quite a Wrangler in some manners but almost and it rides like a champ. Very comfortable, good gas mileage, 18 mpg in town and 23 on one trip. Great in the snow also. I have 36,000 miles on my jeep now and its running great. My last one went 275k until tranny needed work. Sold it to employee with 330k and is still running great.

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  WILL ALWAYS HAVE @ LEAST ONE IN MY GARAGE! - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By traveler55 - February 14 - 6:43 pm

  Was very hesitant to buy American, as I am a devout Toyota guy, but the new FJ Cruiser didnt offer everything I wanted(especially a soft top). Also neede more room inside, so the new unlimited fit the bill. Bought it used in 2010 w/27,000 mi. on it. Have only had to do normal maintenance so far on it. Brakes, oil, belt, fluids, etc. I am big on preventative maint. anyway, so hopefully I wont have too many issues that are unexpected. I also tow a tent camper with it, and it tows very well. Gearing is for off-road, so it shifts a little more than a pick-up, etc., but all-in-all, tows well. By the way this is an automatic, but wasnt a choice. .Wife cant drive stick. Oh well.

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  150,000 - 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By cweiland - February 14 - 1:39 am

  Just hit 150,000 miles and it is still running strong. The thing wont die! The interior is falling apart, my A/C dosent work and im leaking a bit of oil and antifreeze but thats an easy fix. Most reliable vehicle ive owned, engine wise. Its no Aston Martin but ill take it I guess.

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  My 3rd Jeep Wrangler, love this one - 2007 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jeff - February 13 - 10:10 pm

  This is my third Wrangler and my first 4 door. Excellent handling on the road but have already been stuck off road, something that never happened in my 2 door. But the family loves the extra room and comfort and it tows my boat much better. Love the easy to use top but have had some leaking in heavy rain. With top down the seatbelt vibrates loudly. Really miss my In line 6 engine as the 07 seems underpowered at times and reves high. Over all though this is a great vehicle with high marks in styling and curb appeal. With the top down on a sunny day it just cant be beat. Remember the Jeep Wave when you are out and about.