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The Jeep Wrangler belongs to the line of military vehicles that carried the Allies to victory in WW2. It replaced the CJ (Civilian Jeep) line in the 1980s, and it has since become the model that has stayed true to Jeep’s iconic look.

The Wrangler is the perfect off-road vehicle due to its timeless and highly customizable design. Like the Willys MB and CJs that came before them, Wranglers feature a tapered nose, a fold-flat windshield, and flared fenders that you can spot from a mile away. They are also built to have a separate body and frame as well as rigid front and rear live axles.

If you enjoy driving over rough terrain and going on adventures off the beaten path, you can’t go wrong with this tough SUV. But which ones are the most reliable? Let’s find out.

2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara

2020 jeep wrangler unlimited sahara edmunds
The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara is a favorite among those who love going on off-road adventures. Image credit: Edmunds.

Equipped with a mild hybrid engine, the 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara is a favorite among those who love going on off-road adventures.

Thanks to its large tires and lockable differentials, the Unlimited Sahara is a beast that can conquer almost every type of terrain — all while supporting heavy cargo and up to five passengers.

The 2020 Unlimited Sahara also comes with a lot of advanced technology. Its blind-spot monitoring, smartphone integration, and touchscreen infotainment system give way to safe, smooth, and satisfying drives.

While this Jeep has less cargo space compared to other models, its customizability, hybrid engine option, and tech features more than make up for that limit.

  • Engine Specs: 3.6-liter V6
  • Weight: 5,500 lbs
  • Max Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
  • Max Payload Capacity: 880 lbs
  • Power: 285hp
  • Torque: 260 lb-ft

2013 Jeep Wrangler Sport

2013 jeep wrangler sport consumer reports
The 2013 Jeep Wrangler Sport is a heavy-duty vehicle that’s a dream to drive off the beaten path. Image credit: Consumer Reports.

The 2013 Jeep Wrangler Sport is a heavy-duty vehicle that’s a dream to drive off the beaten path.

While it comes with fewer features compared with the 2020 Unlimited Sahara, it’s more affordable and accessible — you can get your hands on one for roughly $22,000.

If you want a traditional Jeep Wrangler with high horsepower and torque, the Sport 2013 is an excellent option. It also has a convertible roof, which means you can enjoy the wind as you cruise down highways.

This Jeep also comes with antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, and hill start assist, helping drivers traverse rough terrain safely and confidently.

  • Engine Specs: 3.6-liter V6
  • Weight: 4,900 lbs
  • Max Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs
  • Max Payload Capacity: 1,000 lbs
  • Power: 285hp
  • Torque: 260 lb-ft

1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ

1997 jeep wrangler tj wikimedia
If you’re interested in driving something a little more classic and old school, the 1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ is the perfect choice for you. Image credit: Wikimedia.

If you’re interested in driving something a little more classic and old school, the 1997 Jeep Wrangler TJ is the perfect choice for you.

Even though it’s more dated than some of the other models available on the market, it’s every bit as viable due to its outstanding off-road capabilities. The best part? It handles just as well on the road as it is away from it, making it a versatile vehicle ideal for road trips and adventures across the country.

  • Engine Specs: 4.0-liter inline-six
  • Weight: 4,380 lbs
  • Max Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs
  • Max Payload Capacity: 800 lbs
  • Power: 180 hp
  • Torque: 222 lb-ft

2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JK

2007 jeep wrangler unlimited jk wikimedia
The 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JK addresses most of the problems drivers had with earlier Jeep Wrangler models, namely their poor on-road performance and low cargo capacity. Image credit: Wikimedia.

The 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JK addresses most of the problems drivers had with earlier Jeep Wrangler models, namely their poor on-road performance and low cargo capacity.

Fortunately, it accomplishes this feat without betraying what makes a Jeep Wrangler what it is — a practical, off-road powerhouse.

What makes the Unlimited different is that it has four doors instead of the usual two. Because it’s built on an extended wheelbase, the cabin is roomier and more comfortable for passengers and drivers alike.

This Jeep is also more effective at carrying cargo thanks to its high maximum payload capacity. Plus, it comes equipped with traction control and ABS systems.

  • Engine Specs: 3.8-liter V6
  • Weight: 4,990 lbs
  • Max Towing Capacity: 1,000 lbs
  • Max Payload Capacity: 1,150 lbs
  • Power: 202 hp
  • Torque: 237 lb-ft

2018 Jeep Wrangler JL

2018 jeep wrangler rubicon edmunds
One of the 2018 JL’s greatest selling points is how it works well in all terrains, urban or otherwise. Image credit: Edmunds.

Another excellent model worth investing in is the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL. It has a roomy and well-designed interior and cabin, and it’s outfitted with all sorts of advanced tech, such as touchscreen navigation, smartphone integration, and voice control.

One of the 2018 JL’s greatest selling points is how it works well in all terrains, urban or otherwise.

Many Jeep Wrangler models are clunky and difficult to drive on roads, but the JL isn’t like that. It does this without sacrificing its off-road performance, making it a must-own vehicle for adventurous drivers.

  • Engine Specs: 3.6-liter V6
  • Weight: 4,900 lbs
  • Max Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
  • Max Payload Capacity: 1,000 lbs
  • Power: 285 hp
  • Torque: 260 lb-ft

2006 Jeep Wrangler LJ Rubicon

2004 2006 jeep wrangler unlimited lj rubicon wikimedia
Despite its age, the LJ Rubicon 2006 is a reliable SUV for off-road drives and long-distance road trips. Image credit: Wikimedia.

Last but not least is the 2006 Jeep Wrangler LJ Rubicon. Despite its age, the LJ Rubicon 2006 is a reliable SUV for off-road drives and long-distance road trips.

Many drivers who love the great outdoors favor this model because of its four-wheel drive, large all-terrain tires, and sturdy suspension system. On top of that, it also performs just as well on the road, making it a dependable daily driver.

  • Engine Specs: 4.0-liter inline-six
  • Weight: 4,600 lbs
  • Max Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs
  • Max Payload Capacity: 750 lbs
  • Power: 190 hp
  • Torque: 235 lb-ft
About The Authors
Written By Automotive and Tech Writers

The CarParts.com Research Team is composed of experienced automotive and tech writers working with (ASE)-certified automobile technicians and automotive journalists to bring up-to-date, helpful information to car owners in the US. Guided by CarParts.com's thorough editorial process, our team strives to produce guides and resources DIYers and casual car owners can trust.

Reviewed By Automotive Features Reviewer at CarParts.com

Lisa Conant grew up in Canada around a solid contingency of gear heads and DIY motor enthusiasts. She is an eclectic writer with a varied repertoire in the automotive industry, including research pieces with a focus on daily drivers and recreational vehicles. Lisa has written for Car Bibles and The Drive.

Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.

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