Used Jeep Wrangler for sale: everything you need to know
The Jeep Wrangler can trace its heritage back to the wartime vehicles of the 1940s, and can lay reasonable claim to being the original 4x4. It can also lay claim to being one of the best, with Jeep every bit as dedicated to making SUVs that can really handle themselves off-road as British brand Land Rover.
Today’s model was introduced in 2018 and is a marked step up in refinement, comfort and equipment from its predecessors, but none of the traditional Jeep characteristics have been eroded, meaning this is a characterful, warts-and-all take on the SUV formula. It won’t suit everyone as a result, but some will love it - and there are some good deals to be found on used Wranglers if you can’t quite stretch to a new one.
Should you buy a Jeep Wrangler?
The Jeep Wrangler isn’t ‘just another SUV’, and if you treat it as such - and begin comparing it to cars like the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 - it’ll only fall short. Put simply, most other modern SUVs are more refined, handle better, and typically use less fuel. But like that other popular US import, the Ford Mustang, the Wrangler packs the kind of character and charm that you just can’t get in most other SUVs.
So you’re getting a 4x4 with a slightly cheap-feeling interior which isn’t as tightly-constructed as many other SUVs, and driving characteristics than combine a slightly bouncy ride with light and inaccurate steering that doesn’t always inspire the most confidence. But the view out over that bluff bonnet and through the upright windows is fantastic, you can pull the plastic roof panels (and even the doors) off when it’s sunny, and you’ll turn back to look at it every time you get out.
Equipment levels are generous and despite its size and imprecise handling it’s still easy to drive, and the square edges do at least make it easy to judge the car’s extremities. The two-door model can feel a little cramped inside and has a smaller boot, but in four-door form it’s pretty spacious, and rear-seat passengers will enjoy the experience just as much as those in the front.
The only modern SUVs that really compete on character are the Land Rover Defender and the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, but the Jeep has a more blue-collar image we think some buyers will find more appealing. Elsewhere you’ll find SUVs that are faster, more refined, more economical and better built, but the average BMW, Audi, or Lexus will feel like it’s had a character bypass next to the Jeep.
What’s the best used Jeep Wrangler model to buy?
The four-door Wrangler makes the most sense if you’re planning to use it for more than just posing and off-roading, as it’s not just easier for rear seat passengers to get into, but generally much larger inside and has a considerably bigger boot too. That’s what you’d expect from a car half a metre longer - though that does make the two-door easier to find a parking space for. The diesel engine would be our pick of the two powerplants for its extra economy, and Sahara is our trim level of choice, with all the kit you’re likely to need in day to day driving.
Used Jeep Wrangler fuel economy and performance
- Jeep Wrangler 2.2 MultiJet II: In 2017-2022 models you’ll find a 2.2-litre, 200PS turbodiesel with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. It’s good for 0-62mph in 8.6 seconds and 30.7mpg economy.
- Jeep Wrangler 2.0 TC GME: From 2022 on, you get a 2-litre turbocharged petrol instead, again with an eight-speed auto. Power is now 272PS which really lifts performance, achieving 0-62mph in 7.1 seconds, and is only marginally behind on economy at 26.9mpg.
What used Jeep Wrangler trim levels are available?
- The Jeep Wrangler Sahara comes in both two and four-door formats, and has a removable three-piece hardtop. Other kit includes satellite navigation, climate control, fabric seats, a nine-speaker audio system, and an infotainment touchscreen.
- The Jeep Wrangler Overland is four-door only and gets McKinley leather trim, heated seats and steering wheel, and there’s a solid cover over the spare wheel at the back.
- The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon is aimed primarily at off-roading, or those who like to imagine they’ll off road. Once again it’s offered in two- and four-door body styles, and has 17-inch wheels, mud-terrain tyres, locking differentials, and the option to disconnect the front anti-roll bar for improved axle articulation.
Used Jeep Wrangler dimensions and boot size
The Jeep Wrangler’s exterior dimensions are:
- Length: 4334mm (four-door: 4882mm)
- Width: 1894mm
- Height: 1901mm
- Ground clearance: 242mm
The Jeep Wrangler’s boot size is:
- 192 litres (two-door)
- 533 litres (four-door)
Used Jeep Wrangler road tax
The Wrangler we’re covering here was introduced after the last tax changes in April 2017, so all models get a flat rate, set at £190 a year. Most also get a surcharge though for costing more than £40,000 when brand new, which lifts the bill to £600 - at least from the car’s second to sixth years on the road.
How much is it to insure a Jeep Wrangler?
Insurance is towards the upper end of the 1-50 group scale, with all models found in either group 40 or 41, depending on trim level. That’s higher than the group 27 that a Land Rover Defender begins at, but below the group 50 of all Mercedes G-Class models.
