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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  bigger maybe better - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Robert Nolan - November 9 - 7:00 pm

  I needed a 4wd for snowy winters in Wi. Well, I purchased my 2005 jJeep Renegade last Dec of 2004, not much snow or severe conditions to really test my Jeep. I enjoy the ride and the comfort of the drivers seat, but my passengers in the back will complain of hard bouncing and not much padding. The back cargo area is way too small. Just can get my golf clubs in sideways, the glove box is a laugh and a half; it holds a pencil. The gas mileage is poor, but a lot of suvs are; gets 18 city. I feel safe in it; the ride is tight, and it has more than adequate acceleration with the 3.7 engine. Great little vehicle to park and scoot around in, but not enough He-Man room. My wife loves it. Great buy now on 2005 models.

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  Go Jeep Go - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Jeeper - November 9 - 6:06 pm

  Purchased the Jeep for my wife about a month ago. Shes put on about 1K miles; well actually, Ive probably put on a few of those miles myself. We both enjoy the Jeep greatly. We actually fight over who will drive it at times. Ive owned a Wrangler in the past, so I knew the off-road ability would definitely be there. The interior fit and finish is very nice (owning a Honda myself) and there are no rattles. Wish the gas mileage was better, but its an SUV so you learn to live with it.

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  jeep just empty each pocket - 2006 Jeep Wrangler
  By stoneshihtzu - November 9 - 12:25 am

  i bought my 2006 rhd wrangler 4x4, thinking it was a smart decision. thought it would be a great investment. durability & dependability. was going to be the perfect choice for a mail carrier vehicle. in 6,000 miles i have replaced ac/heater switch twice, towed once cause gear shifter cable broke. ran hot on me regularly. transmission fell out before i put 6,000 miles on it. if you purchase a jeep you better have a great warranty because believe me, you will need it. it was just out of factory warranty when i bought it at 73,000 miles and it has been one expense after another. everyone on these reviews sound like it is so great. like to hear if they still feel that way after 80,000 miles.

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  I got my Jeep back! - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By ownedseveral - November 8 - 9:56 am

  I have owned several Jeeps. A 94 Cherokee and 97 TJ Wrangler. After a brief and dull experience with a Chrysler Town and Country minivan, I got my Jeep back. Yes, everything about the Jeep is, well, Jeepish. I have the hard top model so wind noise is not that much of a big deal and I like the fact that I can take the front panels off on a nice day. They are light and easy. On a rainy day I have seen the top leak once and after reseating it not more leaks. I have the manual 6 speed so power is not that much of an issue. Get the power and door lock option if you have a child. My wife hates that we did not get this option.

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  I came back to the Jeep - 2002 Jeep Wrangler
  By Jeep Life is Good - November 7 - 5:53 pm

  In 2004 I bought an 2002 Wrangler Sport. I loved it, but in Jan 06 sold it for a 2003 Land Rover Discovery w/ 20K miles. In over a year the Land Rover blew an engine and tried to kill me when the brakes failed. The 15 other annoying trips for service were only minor issues. Now its 2007 and I am back in another 02 Wrangler Sport. Same color, miles and option as the old one. Its simple, fun and always works. Any problems can be fixed by me and internet Wrangler forums can show you how. It goes anywhere, looks classic and is cheap to purchase. Winter or Summer always bring a smile to my face in the Wrangler. Dump your heap and buy a Jeep.

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  First Jeep - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Paul - November 6 - 11:26 pm

  Overall I am very happy with this vehicle. Its a great drive. The Liberty catches up with traffic with no problem. I get the whole spare tire thing, but I would rather have a lift gate than the swinging door (especially in the rain). And I have to open the garage door to get large items in and out (e.g. golf clubs). Gas mileage ranges from a low of 14MPG around town to 20MPG on highway trips - pretty disappointing. I noticed the brake pedal is set a little higher than the accelerator which means a lot of leg lifts around town. But the 4-wheel disk brakes bring the car to a stop easily. You get a very good sense of control until you approach 70MPH. So dont. This car will stay in the family.

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  I like my liberty just fine - 2006 Jeep Liberty
  By flyboy - November 6 - 3:13 pm

  I have had my jeep liberty for 16 months and have 25k miles. Have had none of the window issues others have reported. Only reasonably comfortable, but it is a jeep after all. Surprisingly good off road, have been on "4X4 only" trails in real "muck and mud". Very maneuverable. Recently complied with recalls, one of which was to reprogram body module computer. This reboot dramatically improved first to second auto trans shift smoothness and fuel mileage. Mileage went from city 15mpg to 18 mpg (I get 24 to 25 mpg Hwy and 21 combined). It is fun to drive. My wife even enjoys driving it, which was a real surprise. She actually asks me to leave it at home for her. Overall satisfied and a Jeep it is!

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  Great Jeep - 2000 Jeep Cherokee
  By Relentless - November 6 - 1:26 pm

  I have a 2000 4dr 4x4 I bought used with 33,000 miles on it in 2003. This thing has been mechanically rock solid. Its getting older and my cruise control went out on me. But that is the only real problem Ive had and Im about ready to turn 90,000 miles of daily driver torture on this thing. Parts are super cheap and plentiful. Easy to work on. I still like driving this thing, and I look forward to snowy days. If I ever sell it I know I will miss it.

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  8x jeep, love it! - 2006 Jeep Commander
  By chloe50 - November 6 - 6:20 am

  My husband and I are on our 8th jeep and I couldnt wait to get the Commander. Trail rated, reliable, large size. I am a total loss adjuster and auto damage adjuster so I work around cars all day long. Wouldnt trade my Jeep for any other SUV. **For 2006-sk.canada...sounds like you got a lemon or someone didnt take care of their vehicle, do some additional research on the vehicles history and mechanical records from the previous owner if available. The Tahoe has a history of issues ,problems and recalls..do your research.

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  Luv my Liberty - 2002 Jeep Liberty
  By Dave - November 5 - 9:00 am

  From another "saved my life" story. My wife and I were rear ended by a drunk driver. We hardly sustained any damage to the back of the Jeep, and besides a few muscle aches, we came out just fine. The drunk driver totaled her Ford Taurus in the process. I had my Liberty for 4 years now, and other than a few minor cosmetic issues with a new model vehicle in the beginning, I would buy another Liberty in a heartbeat. I recommend this SUV to anyone looking for a good quality 4X4 at a great price. Honda and Toyota price comparables cant even begin to touch the off road capability this vehicle has, let alone their higher priced models.