Modern Generations of the Jeep Wrangler Carry the Torch

The Jeep brand name and the Wrangler both have a heritage that dates back to World War II.  The original Wrangler was called the Willy General Purpose vehicle because it was developed for the Army to use on the battlefields in Europe.  These battlefields were filled with holes, trenches, and hard-driving, which meant the soldiers needed a go-anywhere vehicle.  The General Purpose vehicle was eventually shortened to “GP” which was later used as just the sound; Jeep.

Jumping to the Modern Jeep Wrangler Models.

1987-1996 – YJ – First Generation

The first generation of the modern Jeep Wrangler came to us in 1987 after the end of the CJ-7 model.  This version looked similar to the CJ-7 but had square headlights and offered much more comfort than the hardcore off-roader that was the CJ-7.  During this generation, several options were offered and the YJ version of the Jeep Wrangler didn’t sit as high off the ground as the previous generations of the Wrangler that we knew.  This model offered either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 4.2-liter six-cylinder engine for the drive.

1997-2006 – TJ – Second Generation

The current generations of the modern Jeep Wrangler entered the second iteration in 1997 with this new TJ mode.  This was the model where we saw the round headlights appear again and the power for this version came from three engine options to give you the power you wanted.  Initially, this Jeep Wrangler had a three-speed automatic transmission and a five-speed manual, which both gained an additional gear later in the generation.  The sound system was upgraded to give owners a CD player and eventually satellite radio to make sure you could have the experience desired when you drive this model.

2007 – 2017 – JK – Third Generation

The four-door Unlimited model of the Jeep Wrangler appeared in the JK, third generation, models to give us more room for others to ride with us out on the trails.  This model started with a 3.8-liter V6 engine but eventually transitioned to the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that continues to be an engine that we see in the models offered today.  This version was the first time new features were introduced including Hill Start Assist, Trailer Sway Control, and Electronic Stability Control.  The first of the Uconnect infotainment systems were offered during the JK generation.

2018 – Present – JL – Fourth Generation

The current Jeep Wrangler model is different from any other that we’ve ever seen.  This SUV is more comfortable on the roads, it’s offered with several powertrains to give you the right way to handle the drive, and it has all the modern features that you can admire when you want to have a competent SUV that can take you where you need to go.  A signature upgrade for this current generation is the curved front grille which gives us an impressive look that we can admire and enjoy when it’s time to head out for a ride.