Shopping on line can be easy, simple and save you lots of money. It can also take a lot of your time, frustrate you, and result in unwanted purchases. Now the same can be said for regular high street shopping, but with the vast opportunity presented by the Internet it will pay you to spend a few minutes reading this and understanding how to better optimize your Jeep Wrangler shopping experience:
1. Compare - without doubt the biggest advantage that the Jeep Wrangler offers shoppers today is the ability to compare thousands of Jeep Wrangler at a time. This is a great thing, but not necessarily all the time! Too much can be daunting at times so take advantage of the great comparison sites and where possible let them do the hard work for you.
2. Research - if it has been said it will be on the internet. Ignorance is no longer a justifiable reason for buying the wrong thing. Take the time to research in detail everything that you could possible want to know about
3. Testimonials - don't know anybody that has bought a Jeep Wrangler? Wrong! If the Jeep Wrangler is good the internet will let you know. Use the Internet as a friend and get testimonials before you buy.
4. Questions - Got a question about Jeep Wrangler then search the Forums, FAQ's, Blogs etc. Don't be afraid to ask .....
5. Reputation - Never heard of the company selling Jeep Wrangler? Don't worry, no reason why you should know every company in the world, but you know someone that does! Use the internet to find out what people are saying about Jeep Wrangler and build up a picture of their reputation for sales, returns, customer service, delivery etc.
6. Returns - still worried that even after all of the above your Jeep Wrangler wont be what you want? Check out the returns policy. There is so much competition now that someone, somewhere is bound to offer the terms that you are comfortable with.
7. Feedback - happy with your Jeep Wrangler then let people know, after all you are depending on others people input in your buying decision, so why not give a little back.
8. Security - check for the yellow padlock on the Jeep Wrangler site before you buy, and the s after http:/ /i.e. https:// = a secure site
9. Contact - got a question about Jeep Wrangler, or want to leave a comment then check out the sites contact page. Reputable companies have them and respond.
10. Payment - ready to pay for your Jeep Wrangler, then use your credit card or PayPal! Be aware of companies that don't accept them, there may be genuine reasons but given the huge amount of choice you have when buying online there is no reason at all not to buy via credit card or PayPal.
{{Infobox Automobile| name = Jeep Wrangler| image = | aka = Jeep YJ, Jeep TJ, Jeep JK| manufacturer =
American Motors (1987)
Chrysler (1987-1998)
DaimlerChrysler (1998-2007)
Chrysler LLC (2007-present)]| production = 1987–present| predecessor = Jeep CJ, [rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive-->
The
Wrangler (also known as the
YJ,
TJ, and
JK, as explained below) is an
off-road vehicle produced by United States automaker
Chrysler under its
Jeep marque. It is a successor to the famous
World War II 'Jeep' vehicle by way of the Willys Universal Jeep (Jeep CJ) in the 1950s, later produced by Kaiser-Jeep and
American Motors Corporation. The Wrangler debuted in 1987, was updated in 1997 and again in 2007, and is still popular today.
From 1987 until 1992 the Wrangler/YJ was built in
Brampton, Ontario, Canada.Today the Wrangler is produced at Jeep's Toledo North Assembly plant in
Toledo, Ohio.
The Wrangler name was not used in Canada, as it was a trim level of Chevrolet pickup in that market. Instead, 1987 to 1995 models were sold as YJ, and 1997 to 2006 models were sold as TJ. The model designations of YJ and TJ are used throughout the world in the Jeep enthusiast community to differentiate which model is being spoken of instead of using the more ambiguous term "Wrangler".
YJ (1987-1995)
{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = YJ| image = | production = 1987–1995| engine = 2.5 L
AMC Straight-4 engine straight-44.2 L
AMC Straight-6 engine#258 I64.0 L
AMC Straight-6 engine#4.0 I6 (6 cyl only) [automatic transmission| width = 66 in (1676 mm)| body_style = 2-door
convertible2-door truck
[Brampton, Ontario,
Canada YJ, sold as the Wrangler, replaced the much-loved but slower-selling [Jeep CJ in 1987 and was built in Brampton, Ontario, Canada until the plant closed on
April 23,
1992. It was a new design with a wider wheelbase, slightly less
ride height, a galvanized body and more comfort. The YJ also had a leaf spring suspension similar to that of the CJ, however, the springs were wider, and the YJs sported trackbars and swaybars for added handling. YJs are easily identifiable by their rectangular headlights, which were a source of controversy when introduced. Despite the new grill, the body is very similar to the CJ's, and it is interchangeable with some minor modifications. Many CJ owners with a rusted body replace them with a newer YJ body, they are almost cosmetically identical and the lines from the nose match up perfectly. 632,231 YJs were built through model year 1995, though YJs were still produced into mid '96 bringing the total production number to 685,071 units.
The YJ used a 2.5 L
AMC Straight-4 engine Straight-4 or optional 4.2 L
AMC Straight-6 engine#258 I6 until 1991. That year, a
fuel injected 180 hp (134 kW) 4.0 L AMC Straight-6 engine#4.0 variant replaced the 112 hp (84 kW) 4.2 L
straight-6.
The roll cage was extended in 1992 to allow for rear shoulder belts, and anti-lock brakes were added as an option the next year. An automatic transmission option for 4-cylinder Wranglers came in 1994 along with a
Automotive lighting#Center High Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL).
In 1994, the slave cylinder on manual transmissions was moved outside of the transmission's bellhousing to allow for easier replacement, and in 1995 larger U-joints were used.
YJ Wrangler Renegade
From 1991 until 1994, Jeep produced an options package on the YJ Wrangler listed as the "Renegade Decor Group". Initially, all Renegades were White, Black or Red. In 1992, Blue was added, in 1993, Bronze. The Renegade Decor Group was a $4,266.00 option over a base Wrangler in 1991 and included special alloy wheels, exclusive body flares, along with many other features.
Contents of the Renegade Decor Package
- 4.0 Litre I-6 Engine
- 29x9.5R15 LT OWL Wrangler A/T Tires
- 5-Hole Aluminum Wheels, 8 inch wide.
- Full size spare tire.
- Highback seats with Trailcloth Fabric
- Off-Road Gas Shocks
- Power Steering
- Fog Lamps (integrated into the front fenders)
- Leather wrapped steering wheel
- Renegade striping (door letters)
- Floor carpeting (full width, and on insides of body tub)
- Floor mats, front
- Extra capacity fuel tank (20 gal.)
- Color Keyed Fender Flares with integrated bodyside steps
- Front and rear bumperettes (plastic)
- Center console with cup holders
- Courtesy and engine compartment lights
- Interval Wipers
- Glove box lock
Additionally, hardtops received a mandatory rear window defroster at a $164.00 premium. Hardtops themselves were a $923.00 option.
All Renegades typically had the Tilt Steering wheel ($130.00) and an AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Radio ($264.00).
A column shift automatic was also an available option (this option was rare).
While a base Wrangler with the inline 6 went for $12,356.00, the Renegade package pushed that price up to $18,588.00 in 1991. Dealer mark-up moved the price to $19,273.00.
These vehicles were sent as optioned Wranglers to Auto Style Cars in Detroit, where the Renegade Decor Package was installed, then shipped back to Jeep for delivery to dealers. Renegades all have a small sticker on the driver's side door, right above the latch denoting the visit to ASC.
At the price premium over a standard Wrangler, sales were fairly limited, so finding one today is a semi-rare occurrence. The price, plus what hardcore Jeepers felt were "funny looking plastic fenders" limited the sales. Although having nearly identical off-road capabilities, these Jeep were typically used as "beach cruisers" because of both their price and rarity, as well as the fact that their over sized flares and body cladding were not designed for the abuse that tree branches and over sized tires can deal out.
Trims
North American YJ/Wrangler were available in the following standard trims.
- Base (also referred to as "S"&"SE" at different points in the model run; first few years the back seat and rear bumperettes were optional, some years the 6cyl engine was an option, other years only the 4cyl was available in the "Base" model)
- Laredo (Chrome grille, bumpers, and trim, hard top and hard full doors, tinted windows, faux leather interior, body color fender flares and alloy wheels)
- Islander (which included "Sunset" Islander graphics and body colored wheel flares)
- Sport (which featured "sport" graphics and, beginning in 1991, a 4.0L 6 cylinder engine)
- Sahara (which came standard with most available options, including body color fender flares and alloy wheels)
- Renegade (which ran until 1994, and featured a similar option package as Sahara, but added premium wheels, deluxe interior group as well as oversized "Renegade" wheel flares and body cladding)
- Rio Grande (Available in champagne gold, moss green and white, with a southwest themed interior trim package, only the 4cyl engine was available, model was offered in the last two years of the YJ model run)
TJ (1996-2006)
{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = TJ| image = | production = 1997–2006| assembly =
Toledo, Ohio [Straight-42.4 L
Chrysler PowerTech engine#2.4 I4
4.0 L
AMC Straight 6 engine#4.2 I6
2-door [truck
5-speed [manual transmission6-speed
manual transmission| wheelbase = 93.4 in (2372 mm) standard
103.4 in (2626 mm) LWB-->
The YJ gave way to the
TJ for the 1997 model year (note that there was no 1996 model year; the 1997 TJ was released in Spring 1996). This updated Wrangler featured a coil-spring suspension (based on that of the
Jeep Grand Cherokee) for better ride and handling, and a return to the CJ's iconic round headlamps. The engine is the same 4.0 L
AMC Straight 6 engine used in the Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee. A 2.5 L
AMC Engines#150 (2.5 L) AMC motor was available on entry-level models until 2003 when the 2.4 L DOHC
Chrysler Neon engine#2.4 4-cylinder engine replaced it.
A right hand drive version of the TJ was available for export markets, and was also offered for sale to US rural route postal carriers. The version offered to US postal carriers was only available with an automatic transmission.
Other changes included the 1999 additions of a larger standard fuel tank, child seat tethers and sound system improvements in 2000, and a new console, steering wheel, and a revised dashboard for 2001. 2002 saw other minor changes including new colors, along with available wheel styles.
TJ Wrangler Rubicon
The
Wrangler Rubicon (named for the famed
Rubicon Trail in the Sierra Nevada Mountains) was introduced in 2003. It featured front and rear Dana 44 axles with built-in air-actuated
locking differentials, 4:1 low-range NV241 transfer case, 4.10:1 differential gears, 16 in alloy wheels, and Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company MTR P245/75-R16 tires. 2003 to 2004 featured a standard NV3500 five-speed
manual transmission, which changed in 2005 to a
Mercedes-Benz-sourced six-speed. The optional 42RLE four-speed automatic transmission was available from 2003 to 2006.
A limited run of 1,001 Wrangler Rubicon "
Tomb Raider" models were produced in 2003 to promote the
Tomb Raider sequel,
Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life. Along with the standard Rubicon fare, it also included exterior features such as 16 in. Alcoa forged aluminum wheels,
Tomb Raider badging, and
Mopar accessories including a light bar, riveted fender flares, tubular grille guard, diamond-plated bumper guard, etc. Interior features included Dark Slate fabric seats with red accent stitching down the center, silver surround instrument panel bezel, red seatbelts and a
Tomb Raider badge with serial number. To match the vehicle in the film, it was offered in Bright Silver.
TJ Wrangler Unlimited
In 2004, Jeep introduced the
Wrangler Unlimited with a 10 in (~25.4 cm) longer wheelbase (LWB), a Dana 44 rear axle with a 3:73 gear ratio and the
Command-Trac 231 transfer case; this model is also known by its unofficial designation of
LJ. In 2005, Jeep released the
Rubicon Unlimited, which has the wheelbase of the Unlimited and the off-road features of the Rubicon such as front and rear Dana 44 axles with locking differentials, diamond plate rocker guards, a NVG241OR transfer case with a 4.0:1 low range, 245/75R16 Goodyear MT/R tires, a six-speed manual transmission and other comfort and convenience options not offered on other Wranglers.
Trims
- Base - also referred to as "SE"
- X (available after 2002, it was the equivalent to earlier standard optioned 'Sport' models
- Sport - which came standard with the 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine
- Sahara - the premium model until 2005, which came standard with most available options, including the 4.0-litre engine, alloy wheels, fog lights and the premium interior group
- Rubicon - beginning in 2003, the premium "off-road" model, which came standard with most of the available off-road options and included the "Rubicon appearance package", which included alloys, fog lights, and lower bodyside "diamond" plating
- Unlimited - beginning in 2004, Unlimited offered more interior room (increased legroom for rear passengers, and improved storage space behind the rear seat), greater towing capacity, 3500 lb (1600 kg), and was available in a standard or Rubicon trim. A 4.0L and alloys were standard on all models. On soft tops, the "Sunrider" flip-back sunroof feature is standard as well.
JK (2007-Present)
{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = JK| image = | production = 2007–present| engine = 3.8 L
Chrysler 3.3 engine#3.8 V6
2-door [Sport utility vehicle
4-door convertible
4-door Sport utility vehicle| wheelbase = 2-door: 95.4 in (2423 mm)
4-door: 116 in. (2945 mm)| transmission = 4-speed
automatic transmission6-speed manual transmission| assembly = Toledo, Ohios took some of Jeep's on-road market share.
JK was introduced at the 2006 [North American International Auto Show with Chrysler group CEO Tom LaSorda driving one up some steps and through a plate glass window, just as
Robert Lutz had done at the show in 1992 with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The JK was first available for purchase with the 2007 model year.
The JK Wrangler is offered in two versions:
- A short-wheelbase 2-door, in X, Sahara and Rubicon trim levels.
- A long-wheelbase Unlimited 4-door, also in X, Sahara and Rubicon trim levels.
A 3.8 L
Chrysler 3.3 engine#3.8 V6 producing 205 hp (153 kW) and 240 ft·lbf (325 N·m) is the base engine, replacing the venerable
AMC Straight-6 engine. The 2.8 L VM Motori turbodiesel straight-4 used in the
Jeep Liberty is offered as options outside of U.S, as it does not satisfy U.S. emission control standards for 2007.
A six-speed
manual transmission is standard, with a four-speed
automatic transmission offered as an option. The lower two levels have the Jeep
Command-Trac part-time two-speed transfer case with an optional
Trac-Loc limited-slip differential, while the
Rubicon uses a
Rock-Trac version of the NV241 with electronic front- and rear-axle
locking differentials.
Stability control is a new safety feature for the JK Wrangler. All versions offer off-road tuned ABS and
traction control system with electronic limited slip differential#Electronic. Standard on the Rubicon trim is a new electronic sway bar disconnect system.
The JK runs almost all vehicle functions other than steering under computer software control. Engine, transmission, and to some extent braking are computer controlled, as are lights and auxiliary systems. This is a first for the Wrangler. The new software has had the typical problems common with any new vehicle launch. As of mid-2007, there have been two safety recalls for software fixes.
A
Sunrider convertible soft top is standard equipment. Also available on the JK model is an optional 3-piece modular hardtop. Although the doors can still be removed in traditional Wrangler fashion, power windows and remote power door locks will be offered for the first time in a Wrangler. Another first is an available navigation system. This is the first generation of the Jeep Wrangler to have a change in the tail lamps.
JK Wrangler Unlimited
The JK series 2007
Wrangler Unlimited was unveiled at the New York Auto Show on April 12, 2006. It is stretched even more than the TJ model, with four doors and 20.6 in (523 mm) added to the JK Wrangler's 95.4 in (2423 mm) wheelbase. It is likely to compete with larger late model off-road vehicles like the
Toyota FJ Cruiser and Hummer H3, and will be priced near $21,000.
Unlimited has the same engine and transmission choices as a short-wheelbase JK. X and Sahara trims offer an option of 2x4 rear wheel drive. It is the only four door convertible available in the U.S.
The Unlimited offers more options and equipment than any previous Wrangler model, including standard
electronic stability program and optional seat-mounted side airbags, remote keyless entry, navigation system, and Sirius satellite radio.
On September 13, 2007, at the
Defence Systems & Equipment International trade show,
Chrysler LLC unveiled a Wrangler Unlimited version designed for military use dubbed the J8. The unarmored
Jeep J8 is equipped with larger brakes, axles and suspension components than the civilian version and has a payload capacity of 1,339 kg (2,952 lb). The J8 also differs from the civilian model by utilizing heavy-duty rear
leaf springs for carrying heavier payloads. The Jeep J8 is powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder
turbo-diesel engine that produces 118 kW (158 hp) and 400 nm (295 lb.-ft) of torque, providing towing capability of up to 3,500 kg (7,716 lb). The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The J8 also features a unique air-intake system with special filtration and a hood-mounted snorkel that enables the J8 to wade in water up to 762 mm (30 in.) deep and tackle sandstorm conditions for up to five hours. Available as a two-door with an extended pickup bed for personnel or equipment transport, or a four-door multipurpose vehicle, it may be produced with numerous vehicle-body and seating configurations in either right-hand- or left-hand-drive. Targeted for use by the militaries in overseas markets, the J8 is not available in the United States because it will not meet U.S. emissions requirements. The J8 will be produced in Egypt.
Trivia
- The Israeli AIL Storm is based on several generations of the Wrangler family.
- The Jeep Wrangler has been used as the vehicle mode for a number of toys in the Transformers (toy line) Alternators (US) and Binaltech (Japan) range of officially licensed 1:24 scale figures: Hound (Transformers) and Swindle (Transformers) appear in both the Alternators and Binaltech toylines, while Rollbar is an Alternators-only version.
- The Wrangler is reportedly one of the most energy efficient cars, far more than many hybrid cars due to the manufacturing process.
- The Wrangler was featured in the 1993 film, "Jurassic Park". 1993 YJ Saharas were used.
- A Wrangler is seen landing in the center of Hill Valley in Back to the Future II in 2015.
- A first gen Wrangler is often used by MacGyver in the TV series of the same name.
References
Notes
External links
{{Infobox Automobile| name = Jeep Wrangler| image = | aka = Jeep YJ, Jeep TJ, Jeep JK| manufacturer = American Motors (1987)
Chrysler (1987-1998)
DaimlerChrysler (1998-2007)
Chrysler LLC (2007-present)]| production = 1987–present| predecessor =
Jeep CJ, [rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive-->
The
Wrangler (also known as the
YJ,
TJ, and
JK, as explained below) is an off-road vehicle produced by
United States automaker
Chrysler under its
Jeep marque. It is a successor to the famous
World War II 'Jeep' vehicle by way of the Willys Universal Jeep (Jeep CJ) in the 1950s, later produced by Kaiser-Jeep and American Motors Corporation. The Wrangler debuted in 1987, was updated in 1997 and again in 2007, and is still popular today.
From 1987 until 1992 the Wrangler/YJ was built in Brampton, Ontario, Canada.Today the Wrangler is produced at Jeep's
Toledo North Assembly plant in
Toledo, Ohio.
The Wrangler name was not used in Canada, as it was a trim level of Chevrolet pickup in that market. Instead, 1987 to 1995 models were sold as YJ, and 1997 to 2006 models were sold as TJ. The model designations of YJ and TJ are used throughout the world in the Jeep enthusiast community to differentiate which model is being spoken of instead of using the more ambiguous term "Wrangler".
YJ (1987-1995)
{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = YJ| image = | production = 1987–1995| engine = 2.5 L
AMC Straight-4 engine straight-4
4.2 L
AMC Straight-6 engine#258 I6
4.0 L
AMC Straight-6 engine#4.0 I6 (6 cyl only) [automatic transmission| width = 66 in (1676 mm)| body_style = 2-door convertible
2-door truck
[Brampton, Ontario,
Canada YJ, sold as the Wrangler, replaced the much-loved but slower-selling [Jeep CJ in 1987 and was built in Brampton, Ontario, Canada until the plant closed on
April 23, 1992. It was a new design with a wider wheelbase, slightly less ride height, a galvanized body and more comfort. The YJ also had a leaf spring suspension similar to that of the CJ, however, the springs were wider, and the YJs sported trackbars and swaybars for added handling. YJs are easily identifiable by their rectangular headlights, which were a source of controversy when introduced. Despite the new grill, the body is very similar to the CJ's, and it is interchangeable with some minor modifications. Many CJ owners with a rusted body replace them with a newer YJ body, they are almost cosmetically identical and the lines from the nose match up perfectly. 632,231 YJs were built through model year 1995, though YJs were still produced into mid '96 bringing the total production number to 685,071 units.
The YJ used a 2.5 L
AMC Straight-4 engine Straight-4 or optional 4.2 L
AMC Straight-6 engine#258 I6 until 1991. That year, a
fuel injected 180 hp (134 kW) 4.0 L
AMC Straight-6 engine#4.0 variant replaced the 112 hp (84 kW) 4.2 L straight-6.
The roll cage was extended in 1992 to allow for rear shoulder belts, and anti-lock brakes were added as an option the next year. An automatic transmission option for 4-cylinder Wranglers came in 1994 along with a
Automotive lighting#Center High Mount Stop Lamp (CHMSL).
In 1994, the slave cylinder on manual transmissions was moved outside of the transmission's bellhousing to allow for easier replacement, and in 1995 larger U-joints were used.
YJ Wrangler Renegade
From 1991 until 1994, Jeep produced an options package on the YJ Wrangler listed as the "Renegade Decor Group". Initially, all Renegades were White, Black or Red. In 1992, Blue was added, in 1993, Bronze. The Renegade Decor Group was a $4,266.00 option over a base Wrangler in 1991 and included special alloy wheels, exclusive body flares, along with many other features.
Contents of the Renegade Decor Package
- 4.0 Litre I-6 Engine
- 29x9.5R15 LT OWL Wrangler A/T Tires
- 5-Hole Aluminum Wheels, 8 inch wide.
- Full size spare tire.
- Highback seats with Trailcloth Fabric
- Off-Road Gas Shocks
- Power Steering
- Fog Lamps (integrated into the front fenders)
- Leather wrapped steering wheel
- Renegade striping (door letters)
- Floor carpeting (full width, and on insides of body tub)
- Floor mats, front
- Extra capacity fuel tank (20 gal.)
- Color Keyed Fender Flares with integrated bodyside steps
- Front and rear bumperettes (plastic)
- Center console with cup holders
- Courtesy and engine compartment lights
- Interval Wipers
- Glove box lock
Additionally, hardtops received a mandatory rear window defroster at a $164.00 premium. Hardtops themselves were a $923.00 option.
All Renegades typically had the Tilt Steering wheel ($130.00) and an AM/FM/Cassette Stereo Radio ($264.00).
A column shift automatic was also an available option (this option was rare).
While a base Wrangler with the inline 6 went for $12,356.00, the Renegade package pushed that price up to $18,588.00 in 1991. Dealer mark-up moved the price to $19,273.00.
These vehicles were sent as optioned Wranglers to Auto Style Cars in Detroit, where the Renegade Decor Package was installed, then shipped back to Jeep for delivery to dealers. Renegades all have a small sticker on the driver's side door, right above the latch denoting the visit to ASC.
At the price premium over a standard Wrangler, sales were fairly limited, so finding one today is a semi-rare occurrence. The price, plus what hardcore Jeepers felt were "funny looking plastic fenders" limited the sales. Although having nearly identical off-road capabilities, these Jeep were typically used as "beach cruisers" because of both their price and rarity, as well as the fact that their over sized flares and body cladding were not designed for the abuse that tree branches and over sized tires can deal out.
Trims
North American YJ/Wrangler were available in the following standard trims.
- Base (also referred to as "S"&"SE" at different points in the model run; first few years the back seat and rear bumperettes were optional, some years the 6cyl engine was an option, other years only the 4cyl was available in the "Base" model)
- Laredo (Chrome grille, bumpers, and trim, hard top and hard full doors, tinted windows, faux leather interior, body color fender flares and alloy wheels)
- Islander (which included "Sunset" Islander graphics and body colored wheel flares)
- Sport (which featured "sport" graphics and, beginning in 1991, a 4.0L 6 cylinder engine)
- Sahara (which came standard with most available options, including body color fender flares and alloy wheels)
- Renegade (which ran until 1994, and featured a similar option package as Sahara, but added premium wheels, deluxe interior group as well as oversized "Renegade" wheel flares and body cladding)
- Rio Grande (Available in champagne gold, moss green and white, with a southwest themed interior trim package, only the 4cyl engine was available, model was offered in the last two years of the YJ model run)
TJ (1996-2006)
{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = TJ| image = | production = 1997–2006| assembly = Toledo, Ohio [Straight-4
2.4 L
Chrysler PowerTech engine#2.4 I4
4.0 L
AMC Straight 6 engine#4.2 I6
2-door [truck
5-speed [manual transmission6-speed manual transmission| wheelbase = 93.4 in (2372 mm) standard
103.4 in (2626 mm) LWB-->
The YJ gave way to the
TJ for the 1997 model year (note that there was no 1996 model year; the 1997 TJ was released in Spring 1996). This updated Wrangler featured a coil-spring suspension (based on that of the Jeep Grand Cherokee) for better ride and handling, and a return to the CJ's iconic round headlamps. The engine is the same 4.0 L
AMC Straight 6 engine used in the
Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee. A 2.5 L
AMC Engines#150 (2.5 L) AMC motor was available on entry-level models until 2003 when the 2.4 L
DOHC Chrysler Neon engine#2.4 4-cylinder engine replaced it.
A right hand drive version of the TJ was available for export markets, and was also offered for sale to US rural route postal carriers. The version offered to US postal carriers was only available with an automatic transmission.
Other changes included the 1999 additions of a larger standard fuel tank, child seat tethers and sound system improvements in 2000, and a new console, steering wheel, and a revised dashboard for 2001. 2002 saw other minor changes including new colors, along with available wheel styles.
TJ Wrangler Rubicon
The
Wrangler Rubicon (named for the famed
Rubicon Trail in the Sierra Nevada Mountains) was introduced in 2003. It featured front and rear Dana 44 axles with built-in air-actuated
locking differentials, 4:1 low-range NV241 transfer case, 4.10:1 differential gears, 16 in alloy wheels, and
Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company MTR P245/75-R16 tires. 2003 to 2004 featured a standard NV3500 five-speed
manual transmission, which changed in 2005 to a Mercedes-Benz-sourced six-speed. The optional 42RLE four-speed
automatic transmission was available from 2003 to 2006.
A limited run of 1,001 Wrangler Rubicon "
Tomb Raider" models were produced in 2003 to promote the
Tomb Raider sequel,
Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life. Along with the standard Rubicon fare, it also included exterior features such as 16 in. Alcoa forged aluminum wheels,
Tomb Raider badging, and Mopar accessories including a light bar, riveted fender flares, tubular grille guard, diamond-plated bumper guard, etc. Interior features included Dark Slate fabric seats with red accent stitching down the center, silver surround instrument panel bezel, red seatbelts and a
Tomb Raider badge with serial number. To match the vehicle in the film, it was offered in Bright Silver.
TJ Wrangler Unlimited
In 2004, Jeep introduced the
Wrangler Unlimited with a 10 in (~25.4 cm) longer wheelbase (LWB), a Dana 44 rear axle with a 3:73 gear ratio and the
Command-Trac 231 transfer case; this model is also known by its unofficial designation of
LJ. In 2005, Jeep released the
Rubicon Unlimited, which has the wheelbase of the Unlimited and the off-road features of the Rubicon such as front and rear Dana 44 axles with locking differentials, diamond plate rocker guards, a NVG241OR transfer case with a 4.0:1 low range, 245/75R16 Goodyear MT/R tires, a six-speed manual transmission and other comfort and convenience options not offered on other Wranglers.
Trims
- Base - also referred to as "SE"
- X (available after 2002, it was the equivalent to earlier standard optioned 'Sport' models
- Sport - which came standard with the 4.0-liter six-cylinder engine
- Sahara - the premium model until 2005, which came standard with most available options, including the 4.0-litre engine, alloy wheels, fog lights and the premium interior group
- Rubicon - beginning in 2003, the premium "off-road" model, which came standard with most of the available off-road options and included the "Rubicon appearance package", which included alloys, fog lights, and lower bodyside "diamond" plating
- Unlimited - beginning in 2004, Unlimited offered more interior room (increased legroom for rear passengers, and improved storage space behind the rear seat), greater towing capacity, 3500 lb (1600 kg), and was available in a standard or Rubicon trim. A 4.0L and alloys were standard on all models. On soft tops, the "Sunrider" flip-back sunroof feature is standard as well.
JK (2007-Present)
{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = JK| image = | production = 2007–present| engine = 3.8 L
Chrysler 3.3 engine#3.8 V6
2-door [Sport utility vehicle
4-door
convertible4-door Sport utility vehicle| wheelbase = 2-door: 95.4 in (2423 mm)
4-door: 116 in. (2945 mm)| transmission = 4-speed
automatic transmission6-speed
manual transmission| assembly = Toledo, Ohios took some of Jeep's on-road market share.
JK was introduced at the 2006 [North American International Auto Show with Chrysler group CEO
Tom LaSorda driving one up some steps and through a plate glass window, just as
Robert Lutz had done at the show in 1992 with the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The JK was first available for purchase with the 2007 model year.
The JK Wrangler is offered in two versions:
- A short-wheelbase 2-door, in X, Sahara and Rubicon trim levels.
- A long-wheelbase Unlimited 4-door, also in X, Sahara and Rubicon trim levels.
A 3.8 L
Chrysler 3.3 engine#3.8 V6 producing 205 hp (153 kW) and 240 ft·lbf (325 N·m) is the base engine, replacing the venerable
AMC Straight-6 engine. The 2.8 L
VM Motori turbodiesel straight-4 used in the
Jeep Liberty is offered as options outside of U.S, as it does not satisfy U.S. emission control standards for 2007.
A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a four-speed
automatic transmission offered as an option. The lower two levels have the Jeep Command-Trac part-time two-speed transfer case with an optional
Trac-Loc limited-slip differential, while the
Rubicon uses a
Rock-Trac version of the NV241 with electronic front- and rear-axle
locking differentials.
Stability control is a new safety feature for the JK Wrangler. All versions offer off-road tuned
ABS and traction control system with electronic limited slip differential#Electronic. Standard on the Rubicon trim is a new electronic sway bar disconnect system.
The JK runs almost all vehicle functions other than steering under computer software control. Engine, transmission, and to some extent braking are computer controlled, as are lights and auxiliary systems. This is a first for the Wrangler. The new software has had the typical problems common with any new vehicle launch. As of mid-2007, there have been two safety recalls for software fixes.
A
Sunrider convertible soft top is standard equipment. Also available on the JK model is an optional 3-piece modular hardtop. Although the doors can still be removed in traditional Wrangler fashion, power windows and remote power door locks will be offered for the first time in a Wrangler. Another first is an available
navigation system. This is the first generation of the Jeep Wrangler to have a change in the tail lamps.
JK Wrangler Unlimited
The JK series 2007
Wrangler Unlimited was unveiled at the
New York Auto Show on April 12, 2006. It is stretched even more than the TJ model, with four doors and 20.6 in (523 mm) added to the JK Wrangler's 95.4 in (2423 mm) wheelbase. It is likely to compete with larger late model off-road vehicles like the
Toyota FJ Cruiser and
Hummer H3, and will be priced near $21,000.
Unlimited has the same engine and transmission choices as a short-wheelbase JK. X and Sahara trims offer an option of 2x4 rear wheel drive. It is the only four door convertible available in the U.S.
The Unlimited offers more options and equipment than any previous Wrangler model, including standard
electronic stability program and optional seat-mounted side airbags, remote keyless entry,
navigation system, and
Sirius satellite radio.
On September 13, 2007, at the
Defence Systems & Equipment International trade show, Chrysler LLC unveiled a Wrangler Unlimited version designed for military use dubbed the J8. The unarmoredJeep J8 is equipped with larger brakes, axles and suspension components than the civilian version and has a payload capacity of 1,339 kg (2,952 lb). The J8 also differs from the civilian model by utilizing heavy-duty rear
leaf springs for carrying heavier payloads. The Jeep J8 is powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder
turbo-diesel engine that produces 118 kW (158 hp) and 400 nm (295 lb.-ft) of torque, providing towing capability of up to 3,500 kg (7,716 lb). The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. The J8 also features a unique air-intake system with special filtration and a hood-mounted snorkel that enables the J8 to wade in water up to 762 mm (30 in.) deep and tackle sandstorm conditions for up to five hours. Available as a two-door with an extended pickup bed for personnel or equipment transport, or a four-door multipurpose vehicle, it may be produced with numerous vehicle-body and seating configurations in either right-hand- or left-hand-drive. Targeted for use by the militaries in overseas markets, the J8 is not available in the United States because it will not meet U.S. emissions requirements. The J8 will be produced in Egypt.
Trivia
- The Israeli AIL Storm is based on several generations of the Wrangler family.
- The Jeep Wrangler has been used as the vehicle mode for a number of toys in the Transformers (toy line) Alternators (US) and Binaltech (Japan) range of officially licensed 1:24 scale figures: Hound (Transformers) and Swindle (Transformers) appear in both the Alternators and Binaltech toylines, while Rollbar is an Alternators-only version.
- The Wrangler is reportedly one of the most energy efficient cars, far more than many hybrid cars due to the manufacturing process.
- The Wrangler was featured in the 1993 film, "Jurassic Park". 1993 YJ Saharas were used.
- A Wrangler is seen landing in the center of Hill Valley in Back to the Future II in 2015.
- A first gen Wrangler is often used by MacGyver in the TV series of the same name.
References
Notes
External links
2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4-door with 202 hp 3.8-liter V6 Engine ...
Official 2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited site. Check out features, specs, pricing, offers, and more for all 2008 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited models.
2008 Jeep Wrangler | New Jeep SUVs — Yahoo! Autos
2008 Jeep Wrangler — Yahoo! Autos. Read reviews, view specifications & pictures, get dealer price quotes & compare the new '08 Jeep suv model with other cars.