Jeep Wrangler

Like seeing a cowboy in a suit, the Jeep Wrangler Overland tries to add some road manners, and a cool powered roof, to the adventure staple. Does it work?

For 25 years, Drive has been at the forefront of Australian motoring media. In our new series, Rear View Mirror, we delve into the back catalogue of thousands of reviews to bring you some of the memories.

Biggest isn't always best, and the alternative is a dying breed of four-wheel drive. We take a closer look at two surviving examples of short-wheelbase life.

Is this the best option in the line-up?

The US crash test authority has released its five most-watched crash test videos of 2022.

The Ford Bronco has been ruled out of Australia from day one. Now there is a fresh glimmer of hope.

Prices of the Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator have risen by between $3000 and $12,100 depending on model.

What's so important about low-range in a four-wheel drive? We've got the answers right here.

Movie-goers watching 'Jurassic World Dominion' will notice the film's cars have switched from Mercedes-Benz to Jeep.

The short-wheelbase Wrangler Rubicon is making a short comeback to Australia in 2021, with only 40 vehicles making up a 100-strong contingent of ‘Recon’ special-edition models.

Isn't it great when manufacturers listen to their consumers? Hyundai, give us a large seven-seater. Kia, we'd love a smaller SUV and Jaguar Land Rover, please extend your warranty. Done deal.

As the saying goes. "There is only One Jeep". I've been driving Jeeps for 12 years now, and this is my third one.Owner: Andrew Tan

I've wanted a Jeep, CJ / Wrangler for as long as I can remember. So I am pleased to say I have no regrets in buying mine.Owner: Milan

OMG, after using your rating system, I wonder why I love my Wrangler. I suppose the Wrangler is not a car, it has never pretended to be a car and this makes it unique in a world of SUV’s. The reason I am a Wrangler owner who is willing to put up with everyone’s negative opinion is because it is an awesome off-roader that I can remove the roof, doors and even lower the windscreen to enjoy the nature without having to walk. I found it amazing that when I told my friends that wanted to buy a Jeep, how negative people were (now I know how Manly supporters feel). No one had firsthand experience of owning a Jeep, they all read something.I have taken Jeep hates off-road and I even let them drive, it’s amazing how quickly there telling everyone how good they are off-road. It’s my daily driver and weekend toy. It safely transports my 2 German Shepherds thanks to dog harness attaching to the roll bar above their bodies. I treat my Wrangler like a Ute, it carries my surfboards and mountain bikes easily because of the square shape. Apparently you can even hose it out due to the carpet being easily removed and the abundance of drain plugs. The Wrangler has been simple for me to service as everything is easy to access and there has been no issue accessing parts. I have found the Lismore Jeep dealership very professional when I have had the recalls completed. The main problem for me at the dealership is trying not to buy the new JL Wrangler. One of the best things about being a Jeeper is the Jeep community support. I enjoy the opportunity to join in on the “Topless days” and many more Jeep events. The Jeep wave is great (I know, I am sad), but I love that sense of belonging. Jeeps are addictive, my wife has the Grand Cherokee (a lovely tourer) and my daughter has owned a Cherokee (surprisingly good off-road) and most evenings are spent looking at what future modifications I may do. That is a great thing about a Wrangler, you can personalise it. In my small town every recognises me because of my Jeep. It was better a few years back when my Jeep was the only one in the area. Today I see so many more Jeeps around which is great, as they all look slightly different. Driving a Wrangler on the road does come with some challenges, Having a suspension lift and mud terrain tyres has affected the on road handling, it reminds of my old HR Holden, a little bit floaty and it’s not the quickest thing around the corners. The wrangler has been a chore on the long distance road trips, but I have loved every kilometre I have travelled in it. My Wrangler being a 2007 model means it is missing out on the niceties of the new Wrangler. The Jeep Wrangler is not for everyone, either you enjoy rock climbing or the novelty of having a 4 door convertible. The Wrangler suits my active lifestyle and has only done 192,000 km’s, so I will keep for another 50,000 km’s before I upgrade to the new JL Wrangler rubicon.

I recently fulfilled a long time dream and bought a Jeep Wrangler. It has an interior you can hose out!! Being a special edition it has a temperature gauge and compass in the rear view mirror! Amazing technology (:)) I wanted a 4 seat convertible and it fits the bill perfectly. I am a performance car nut and have owned numerous high performance rides. This car has taught me that there is more to life than performance. This is the first car that puts a smile on my dial without pushing any limits - warm night, top down and off you go. It loves trails and off road with its short wheelbase and low down torque. There is no technology to speak of, the brakes are rubbish but work well enough, the engine is a 4.0L six torque lump with a 4 speed auto. Fuel economy is average at best. It even has a fold down windscreen! To attach all soft top bits is annoying and the hardtop weighs a ton. At least I have an aftermarket stereo with bluetooth. It is related to the WW2 Willys Jeep and I know they only sold about 10,000 of these in 10 years in Australia. Any car related to a vehicle credited with helping the allies win the war has to be legendary!! What other car offers such instantly familiar looks other than a 911, mini or Beetle? Whether you love them or hate them you must admit they are a motoring legend. My kids love it and, strangely , so do I. It proves speed isn't everything. One of the most surprising things is the reaction from other people - plenty of thumbs up, comments, waves from other Jeep drivers. This car makes you happy when you are driving it and makes other happy, whether they are passengers or other road users. Unfortunately, the Car Advice ratings scale don't have any relating to fun or 'x' factor as this would be off the charts. It may be mediocre on all measurable criteria but in the real world it is awesome. I'm sold.