Jeep Wrangler

An all-new Wrangler debuted at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show, with plans to sell it as a 2018 model alongside the previous generation, the Wrangler JK. The new model, the JL, came in two-door and longer four-door versions. The Unlimited name was dropped, but the styling maintained the familiar Wrangler appearance, just subtly modernized with slightly slipperier lines and contemporary touches, such as optional LED lighting. The 285-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 returned as the standard engine, while a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine good for 270 hp was a new extra-cost option. An optional turbo-diesel 3.0-liter V-6 debuted for 2020 four-door models but was phased out during the 2023 model year. A 4xe (pronounced “four-by-E”) version powered by a 375-hp, plug-in hybrid four-cylinder powertrain with 375 hp and an electric driving range of 22 miles debuted for 2021, along with an outrageous Rubicon 392 trim powered by a 470-hp, 6.4-liter Hemi V-8. A refresh for 2024 brought updated exterior styling, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen running new software, standard curtain side airbags and available power-adjustable front seats.

A new Wrangler JK arrived for the 2007 model year with literally the biggest news: a newly developed four-door Unlimited variant that was nearly 21 inches longer than the traditional two-door Wrangler. The Unlimited’s roomier body maintained the Wrangler’s signature fold-down windshield and removable doors and roof, so it still offered the option of open-air driving. A 285-hp, 3.6-liter V-6 replaced the old 202-hp, 3.8-liter V-6 for 2012. Throughout this generation there were numerous special editions, including the Islander, Arctic, Moab, Willys Wheeler and Golden Eagle.

The Wrangler was redesigned for 1997 (there was no 1996 model), and Jeep’s traditional squared-off styling remained largely intact for this generation, the TJ. The most obvious visual change to the exterior was the return to classic CJ-style round headlights, but the most significant development was the switch from leaf springs to a new coil-spring suspension, similar in concept to the setup used on the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The Wrangler Rubicon debuted for 2003, and a long-wheelbase Wrangler Unlimited arrived during the 2004 model year.

The 1987 Jeep Wrangler debuted in 1986 as the replacement for the brand’s popular CJ-7. This so-called YJ Wrangler was easily identified by its rectangular headlamps. American Motors, Jeep’s parent company since 1970, was sold to Chrysler Corp. in August 1987.