What is the Best Jeep Wrangler Year?
We all know the classic Jeep Wrangler. But Jeep didn't always hit it out of the park. What are the top Jeep Wranglers, and which ones do we wish we could forget?
Written by Elaine Duvet
Reviewed by Kathleen Flear
The
Jeep
Wrangler has long been the Jeep’s stand-out vehicle. The highly recognizable brand has delivered everything from legendary off-roader SUVs to ultimate military trucks.But which Jeep Wrangler is the most impressive to date?
Different types of Wranglers
If you’re looking to buy a
used car
from the late ‘80s and ‘90s, a Jeep is a solid option. According to MotorBiscuit
, “The YJ generation was manufactured from 1987 to 1995, and the TJ generation was produced from 1996 to 2006.”While they’re older vehicles, the YJ and the TJ generations continue to be reliable and most can still perform at high levels. These cars were given new upgrades like the AMC inline-six motor, better suspensions, and roll bars for enhanced safety.
Early JK Jeep Wranglers offer incredible value and may come with fewer miles than older models. You can find this vehicle as a two-door or four-door and various special editions are available for unique trim options. It’s an awesome alternative for conscious
consumers
who still seek off-roading capabilities.In 2018, an “all-new JL generation was introduced with massive improvements compared to JK models,” MotorBiscuit notes. The JL Jeeps offers drivers more convenience with doors, tops, and windshield easier to handle.
If you’re one for modern luxuries like 18-inch all-terrain tires and leather seats, the 2019 Sport, Sahara and Rubicon may be more your speed.
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Folks seeking a sportier ride should check out the 2013 Jeep Wrangler JK Sport. According to
HotCars
, “It boasts 16-inch silver-styled steel wheels, a manual convertible top, cloth seat trim, and ABS traction control.” The JK Sport is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that generates 285 hp. However, the EPA is nothing to write home about, with about 17 mpg in the city.
If you’re a true Jeep enthusiast, the 2014 Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler JK will give you the warm and fuzzies. Representing “military jeeps that carried the troops into battle, the Jeep offers pure functionality and rugged capabilities in a unique package that recognizes the brand’s great history,” HotCars notes.
Buyers will receive a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine with 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The engine can be mated to a six-speed manual gearbox (standard) or a five-speed automatic gearbox.
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL features zipperless soft tops, an easier fold-flat windshield, and two-door/four-door versions. It’s powered by a 3.6 Pentastar V6 engine with an EPA of 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
The 2018 Wrangler Rubicon, named after an infamous off-roading trail, is tough and robust. It sports a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 285 hp. You can also expect ample ground clearance with its 33-inch wheels. With solid-gas mileage and a modern interior, the Rubicon is an excellent choice.
The top spot goes to the 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited North Edition. The auto can take on snow, wet surfaces, and ice. According to HotCars, “Based on the Sahara model, this Jeep features the Selec-Trac 4x4 system and a removable 3-piece hardtop that helps keep you warm and dry.”
The vehicle also comes with tow hooks, an anti-spin differential axel, and Bridgestone All-Terrain tires.
MORE: Was the Jeep LJ the Best Jeep of All Time?
Jeep Wranglers that could be improved
The winner for worst physical appearance is the 1988 Jeep Wrangler. Often referred to as looking like a “shoe,” the boxed cab and elongated hood deviated from the 1986 Wrangler’s design. The cover was known to leak and it was a rockier ride than most would prefer.
The 2012 Jeep Wrangler leaves much to be desired. Lacking stability and control, the engine has been known to overheat. The acceleration was subpar and the radiator didn’t hold up very well.
Enthusiasts were not impressed with the 1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ’s heavy fuel consumption. While it handles well on and off the road, the 2.5-liter engine only generates 120 hp. And it’s actually one of the most controversial Jeeps ever made.
Though its four-cylinder motor was disappointing and its brakes could be stronger, “The 1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ is responsible for the traditional Jeep look that we all know today,” HotCars notes.
What rugged Jeep Wrangler could you see yourself driving as you escape the Jurassic Park raptors on Isla Nublar?
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