Jeep Wrangler

2010 Jeep Wrangler

Enlarge Photo

Shopping for a 2012 Jeep Wrangler? MSRP: $22,045 - $29,995

GET A FREE PRICE QUOTE

The Jeep Wrangler is truly an American icon—a serious off-road SUV that traces its roots back to World War II. Since its debut in the 1980s, the Wrangler has grown in size and features, but still offers the same basic open-air off-road capability that made it famous. There aren't many direct competitors to the Wrangler, though the Nissan Xterra, Toyota FJ Cruiser and former Hummer H3 have offered similar feature sets.

Three generations of the Wrangler have been built since 1987, with the last two spanning 1997 to present. These two versions of the Wrangler saw upgrades to the suspension to improve ride and handling plus upgraded engines for better power and efficiency. The second-generation TJ stuck closely to the mold of the original Jeep, with a two-door layout and classic Jeep styling. A long-wheelbase Unlimited model was added to the lineup in 2004, joining the even more off-road capable Rubicon added in 2003. The third generation JK Wrangler started production in 2007 turning the Unlimited into a four-door. The AMC inline-six engine was replaced with a new V-6 from 2007 as well, generating 205 horsepower and 240 pound-feet of torque from its 3.7-liter displacement. Both hardtop and softop versions are sold, and the iconic removable doors are still in the mix.

The model ranges for the Jeep Wrangler have stayed largely consistent over the years, though new styles have been added. The first Wrangler was offered with a choice of a four- or six-cylinder engine, and automatic or manual transmissions. Renegade and Islander option packages dressed up the Wrangler with different wheels, exterior trim and interior appearance and options upgrades. The 1997-2006 run of the Wrangler saw numerous upgrades, a return to classic round Jeep headlights, and a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine added in 2003, the same year the automatic transmission was upgraded from three speeds to four. Trim packages changed to include the Rubicon, beefed up with stronger front- and rear differentials, a 4:1 low-ratio transfer case and other off-road improvements. The Wrangler Unlimited extended the wheelbase by 10 inches, offering more cargo room but still just two doors. A limited-production Sahara Edition also debuted in 2005, offering a range of desert-themed appearance upgrades inside and out.

The current third-generation Wrangler is offered in two main body styles: the standard short-wheelbase Wrangler and the long-wheelbase, four-door Unlimited, both of which are available in Sport, Sahara and Rubicon trims. The three trim levels run the spectrum from minimalist (Sport) to luxurious (Sahara) to serious off-road (Rubicon). The Sport is a basic vehicle, but can be optioned to suit the buyer. The Sahara offers power windows and locks, an upgraded sound system, different exterior looks, and other comfort and convenience items.

The Wrangler received a freshened interior in 2011, with an all-new instrument panel and upgraded materials throughout the cabin—plus better noise insulation. For 2012, Jeep then added its new 285-hp Pentastar V-6 to the Wrangler. Hooked to a five-speed automatic or six-speed manual, the new engine yields much quicker acceleration and better responsiveness compared to the 3.8-liter pushrod V-6 it replaces.

Overall, with its classic looks, superior off-road capability and unique packaging, the Jeep Wrangler manages to stay relevant despite continuing largely with tradition. Ride quality, comfort, steering, and even occupant safety might not be up to the standards of some daily road commuters or families, but if you head to the trails on the weekends the Wrangler is king. And if you're one of those serious trail hounds and anticipate some scraped and dents, you might actually be happier with a used Wrangler; new ones come priced from less than $23,000 to about $40,000, with the latter being for a loaded top-of-the-line Rubicon.