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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  NOT STOCK! - 2008 Jeep Wrangler
  By DK - September 12 - 1:13 am

  My jeep is highly modified i.e.-motor performance bolt-ons, bumpers, tires(37"tall), 4 lift, 5.13 gears, dual steering stabilizers, etc. I love off roading it and all the looks I get driving on the street. Big fun in a small package. However I have many other rigs to drive on a daily basis better suited to my needs depending on what I am doing. This jeep is for fun only! It is not the best only rig to have.

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  My new JEEP Patriot - 2009 Jeep Patriot
  By MissMolly - September 10 - 1:06 pm

  So far I really like my Patriot. I traded in a 1998 Mercury Mountaineer in the cash for clunkers program and got $8000 off with the additional $3,500 off from Jeep which was a great deal. Its taken some getting used to losing lots of the extras that my Mountaineer had that this car doesnt have such as automatic lights on/off and power seats, etc. but over all it is a great little SUV. It does get about 21 MPG, however it has a very small gas tank. I drive about 300 miles or more per week, so I am at the gas station at least every four days and that is getting old. Also, if you are used to a V8 or a V6, use caution for the first month or so when pulling out in traffic.

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  Its come a long way! - 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By JME - September 10 - 10:00 am

  Ive had three previous Jeep Grand Cherokees and this one, by far, it the best. People are AMAZED by the comfort of the seats, the ride, the power, and its true advantage in the snow (QuadraDrive System). Although I had problems with 1999 and 2000 models, the 2002/2003 has come a long way. For the money, it needs some updated "toys" in the interior to compete with the BMW/Mercedes/Lexus most notably integrated GPS, but its coming. Drive it! If you dont, youll be excluding one of the most comfortable SUVs on the market. As for gas mileage - we just drove from CT to Florida and averaged 19.2MPG the entire trip. Excellent for a high- output V-8.

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  Jeep Liberty - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By Jack Robinson - September 9 - 4:16 pm

  I love my Liberty. It is great off roading in the mountains and it gobbles up the snow. The starting feature in 4WD Low without the clutch helps on the steep trails.It turns on a shorter base than my Nissan Spec V. I do get 20 MPG but on the interstate when going above 75 it is a little thirsty. Manual transmission is a little noisy. The brakes seem to be slow pulling down at high speeds.

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  Not worth the investment - 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee
  By j4man - September 9 - 9:10 am

  I bought a used 2002 GC Limited with less than 50k miles in 2008. JGC is pretty reliable and fun to drive since its more truck than car and I enjoy Limited features of leather heated front memory seats, power mirrors, power sunroof, 4WD as well as having a tape deck and rear 10 disk cd changer. But like other reviewers I have experienced numerous repairs and the poor gas mileage that make the vehicle not worth owning. Repairs: several coolant leaks and had to replace driver side power window motor in addition to routine maintenance. Frustrated with poor gas mileage, memory seat malfunction, rubber coming off of doors,and lack of side window defogger. I prefer Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot

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  Great Small SUV - 2018 Jeep Compass
  By NJ1 - September 8 - 4:53 am

  Ive owned the 2018 Jeep Compass Limited for a little over 3 weeks now and I have to say it is a fantastic car. Some background before I jump into the pros and cons. I primarily use this vehicle for commuting, but will occasionally bring it on trails/off road. Ive seen a few reviews on the new compass which I felt were a little extreme and not too accurate. If you want a basic, un-bias review continue reading. Pros: Exterior re-design - This is a sharp car. In the 3 weeks Ive owned it Ive received many compliments on the look. The face lift of the Compass is extremely similar to the Grand Cherokee and at a quick glance looks like an Evoque with its two tone color format. There are a few LED light upgrades which give the car a more luxury prescience. Interior: Keep in mind this is in the small suv class, but the car is comfortable with a surprising amount of room for backseat passengers. The seats and trim also feel sturdy and well made. Not to mentioned the U-Connect system allows you to customize the lights, display themes etc. to make the interior customized to your liking. Most trims also have Apple Car Play. My trim came with a pano sunroof which is a very cool feature. Roof is all glass which passengers enjoy. Drive Comfort: This car isnt going to blow you away with performance. However, if youre simply looking for a car to get you from A to B with a little pep in its step when needed, this car does just fine. Ive driven it on highways, city streets, backroads etc. and the car has a smooth feel on all terrains. This car also allows you to change the drive setting based on terrain (Auto, Snow, Sand, Mud) Safety: The new Compass comes with 7 airbags standard. I decided to purchase the safety package which comes with lane assist, blind spot monitoring and forward collision warning. Cons: Engine Shut Off: First time owning a car with this feature and Im not a huge fan. Essentially when you come to a stop light and are idle for more than 5 seconds the car will shut off the engine until you take your foot off the brake. Not a big deal, and the feature CAN be turned off. Multi Air Engine Up Hill: At first acceleration up hill the multi air engine tends to rev a little higher than Id like. Again,not a big deal but trying to point out a few things as a heads up. Overall, if youre looking for an attractive vehicle that gives you off road capability, comfortable ride, decent performance, high tech interior with essentially any upgrade option you could think of this is a great car. If youre looking for a powerful suv with better towing capacity, spend the extra money and buy the Grand Cherokee. 9.5/10 for me.

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  Needs a little more design work - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By fredkell - September 7 - 2:16 pm

  A little tight after driving a Dodge Caravan for almost 6 years. Interior storage does not compare nor does console design. Brake and gas pedal are too close to each other, could easily depress gas while using brakes. Thirsty at the pump does not say enough.

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  Extremely off-road capable - 2004 Jeep Liberty
  By Seemo - September 7 - 8:06 am

  Bought this Jeep brand new in 2004 & has never been in the repair shop once until July 2008, for routine maintenance. When I bought new I had the dealer install the skid plate group, tow hooks & rock rails. I have taken this Jeep off-road many times & its quite impressive, I believe its more rugged than most people realize. I should know because I have previously owned a 1946 CJ2-A & also a 1972 CJ-6. I do most of my 4 wheeling in Michigan & I was honestly surprised at some of the muddy situations I was able to get out of. One thing Ive noticed as a 43 year old male over the last 4 years, this car is very popular with the woman. In fact my wife loves this car because its reliable & small

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  SUV for the younger set - 2005 Jeep Liberty
  By thomnla - September 7 - 5:03 am

  This is my first SUV. While I like sitting up high, a major feature of this vehicle, there are numerous drawbacks. Gas mileage is awful -- and I do lots of freeway driving. Leg room on the drivers side is cramped. Lots of plastic on the interior. The glove compartment is well-named; thats about all youre able to store. The ride is extremely hard. Little give in the suspension system. On the other hand, it is roomy for passengers.

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  Could not hate this car more! - 2016 Jeep Patriot
  By Kari Zimmerman - September 6 - 5:24 pm

  What a piece of crap. I readily admit that my credit is a bit challenged and so I was basically forced into this car. It is cute and comfortable and Im a single mom who needed more reliable transportation for my family. Also, while attending work meetings, I needed a vehicle that would not be embarrassing to be seen getting into afterwards! So, into the Patriot I went. Cute and comfortable is about all the good I have to say about this rattletrap. There is absolutely no power, the engine is better suited to a Geo Metro or something. It cannot pull the weight of the Patriot at all. This also contributes to the utter lack of acceleration and low gas mileage. The Bluetooth barely works - I have ended up literally screaming at my dash, trying to get it to understand the number I am asking it to dial. Note - that doesnt work either... First world problems, I know, but if it exists within the vehicle I am paying for, it would be nice if it worked. The tires slip in the rain - Im in Washington, so you can imagine how fun that is - and the snow is impossible. I can drive in it, but the vehicle cannot. My brakes began squealing about a month after I purchased the car. And now, after owning the vehicle for about 14 months, my alternator just went out. I drive quite a bit between my work commute and weekend adventures and I am so incredibly disappointed in this purchase. In short, run, dont walk from this awful vehicle. Getting a 4-Runner next time!!