The 10 Best Jeep Wrangler Models of All-Time
The Jeep Wrangler can be said to be not just a vehicle for transport, but part of our great American History. However, trying to find the best Jeep Wrangler models can get a little picky, after all Jeep Wrangler fans are a close knit bunch, even having a special hand wave sign as they pass other Wrangler drivers on the road.
You'll soon find that with the Jeep Wrangler, everyone seems to have their own opinion, their own special 'favorite'. For many it may be one of the special edition Wranglers such as the 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Call of Duty MW3 Limited Edition, for others it's the tried and true Rubicon.
As a parting fact, did you know that the overall jeep design was inspired by a bulldog? That's right according to jeep designer Michael Santoro, it was the bulldogs stance, and compactness which was the source of the design.
10. 2021 Jeep Wrangler Mojave
While the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Mojave model isn't currently on the market, this Jeep Wrangler model could very well be one of the best ever produced. Coming in both 2 and 4 door models, the Wrangler Mojave will come to market with a 2.0 liter, turbocharged 4-cylinder engine.
Its build would also reflect influences from the Wrangler Rubicon and Gladiator Mojave. As a member of Jeep's Desert Rated lineup, expect the new 2021 Jeep Wrangler Mojave to be able to tackle both the dense, rock laden trails of the Rubicon, but also the harsh, dusty and slippery terrain of desert trails, and be back in time to head for groceries.
9. 2016 Black Bear Special Edition
The "best" of anything is often a subjective choice. In this case, the 2016 Jeep Wrangler Black Bear rates due to it's ability to handle the famous off-road trail it's named after.
This special edition Wrangler was specifically designed to tackle the Black Bear Pass, and as a result, it's basically unstoppable. Another reason this became a favorite is the appearance package, which sadly seemed to garner most of the attention.
As the article in Car and Driver attests, this is one vehicle that can definitely get you through the Pass, if your skills can match the attributes of the Wrangler.
Not only that, one of the perks to owning this special edition, is that Jeep backed the 2016 Black Bear Wrangler model with tons of aftermarket support accessories and supplies--everything you'll ever need to customize your Wrangler to make it your own as you hit the trails.
8. 1997 Wrangler TJ model
The 1997 Wrangler TJ model was a breakthrough of sorts for the Wrangler brand. For the most part, since its inception, the Wrangler was known as an off-roader--that is until the 1997 Wrangler TJ model hit the showroom floors.
This model had successfully integrated on-road abilities into the Wrangler, which meant that on-road handling was just as responsive as hittin the trails. In effect, this new addition to the brand kept its off-road prowess intact, while ensuring owners a comfortable and secure highway commute.
7. 2014 Jeep Wrangler Willys Wheeler JK
We pay homage to the grand history of the Jeep Wrangler with the 2014 Willy's Wheeler JK model. According to CEO Mike Manley, "This new Jeep vehicle delivers pure functionality and rugged capability in a unique package that recognizes the origins of the brand."
Indeed, representing the military jeeps which carried our troops into battle, this model definitely appeals to Jeep fans who are looking for a bit of history and authentic design in their Wranglers. The base build was influenced by the Wrangler Sport and featured a 3.6 liter, Pentastar 285 horsepower, V6 engine.
6. 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited North Edition
Not all great Jeep Wrangler models are to be found 'back in the day'. Indeed, let us introduce you to the 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited North Edition. What makes this Wrangler variant so special, is that it's been built to conquer the snow, wet, and ice of cold climates.
The build is based on the Sahara model, and comes with the Selec-Trac 4x4 system which powers you through the elements, while the removable, 3-piece hardtop helps keep you warm and dry.
Both the seats and steering wheel are heated for your warmth and comfort, and tow hooks are provided in case you need to pull a fallen driver's vehicle from a cold, icy ditch. Other features include an anti-spin rear differential axle, Bridgestone All-Terrain tires, and Uconnect 4C NAV system on 8.4 inch display.
5. 2013 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 10th Anniversary Edition
10 years from its birth, in 2003, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon became a legend, its dexterity, agility and tough rock climbing skills garnering it off-road fans across the country.
When the 10th Anniversary hit, Jeep crafted a model fit for the most hardcore fans.Its beast of an engine, a 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 provided the power necessary for this tiger of the terrain to claw its way up terrain that would frighten other off-road vehicles. Coming in both 2 and 4 door designs, this monster trail rider could comfortably service both family outings and tough terrain.
4. 2018 Jeep Wrangler Moab Edition
If you're looking for the 'perfect' Wrangler, one that is tough as nails, able to handle tough, twisting terrain, and also has a more contemporary design, then this is your model.
Built to take on the harsh, uncompromising and unforgiving off-road trails of Utah, the 2018 Jeep Wrangler Moab provides hardcore off-roaders with the power they craved in taking on the Metal Masher trail, while providing both drivers and passengers alike comfort and security.
An unmistakable fusion of the mountain master, Rubicon, and the Sahara's high level of comfort and exterior design, makes the Moab one of the best Jeep Wranglers on the market.
3. 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JK
When the 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JK arrived on the scene, it's 3.8 liter, V6, 205 horsepower engine wasn't the only thing being talked about. The 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JK was in fact, the very first four-door.
This simple design element of a four-door design lit up the way for this model in sales, as buyers saw it as a convenience they never knew they wanted, but now desired. The Jeep Wrangler group could now add another demographic to their road hungry off-roadies, that of being a family vehicle.
2. 2004 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited TJ
Also known by some as the "LJ", the 2004 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited TJ became a favorite among Wrangler fans. It was this 2004 Unlimited TJ model that really showed the public the enormous off-road capabilities of the brand.
This extended or elongated Wrangler came with an extra 15 inches of muscle, and made its appearance at the Detroit Auto Show, as Chrysler officials introduced it as "A New 2004 1/2 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Gives Customers a New Choice". The additional cargo space and legroom slowly become a hit with the car buying public, as well as its increased towing capacity and off-road capabilities.
1. 2018 Wrangler Rubicon
May we present to you, the admiral of the Wrangler fleet, so to speak, the 2018 Wrangler Rubicon. Named after one of the most famous off-roading trails in the world, the Rubicon represents the toughest and hardiest of the Wranglers.
While its crown may soon be taken by the 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon EcoDiesel, the 2018 model is still known as one of the best Wranglers on the market today.
A stunning blend of both utility and drivability, it gives the avid off-roader exactly what they need. Its 3.6 liter, V6 engines powers up to 285 terrain hungry horses, while its massive, 33 inch wheels provide you with the ground clearance you need.
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Written by Benjamin Smith
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