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We're all looking for a car that's worth our time and money. Jeep, in particular, manufactures some of the finest automobiles on the market, but with new models arriving every year, what happens to the older versions? Buyer's guidelines for used Jeep Wranglers may not always cover everything. So far, there have been four versions of the Wrangler, and each one has included various upgrades that keep the Wrangler in step with the most popular vehicles on the market.
It all began with the first-generation Wrangler in 1987, and since then, we've watched the Wrangler evolve from a two-door SUV to a bigger tech-heavy four-door SUV (though two-door models are still around). With that said, it's simple to tell a Wrangler YJ from a JL, owing mostly to the vehicle's headlamp design. The YJ lacks the rounded headlamps that have been a trademark of the brand since then, instead opting for squared-off headlights.
YJ (1987-1996)
The Wrangler is not Jeep's first vehicle; that accolade belongs to the 1940s Willys Quad, a 4x4 that the US army actively invested in during WWII. That model, on the other hand, was so well received by those who drove it that Jeep made it available to the entire public. The CJ Jeep, or "Civilian Jeep," was its name.
While the Jeep CJ was being manufactured, the automotive world was rapidly changing, and some of today's most popular vehicles were initially introduced. The Ford Bronco, Jeep Wagoneer, Ford Mustang, and Chevy Impala are just a few of the numerous models that were launched during this time period that we still adore today. The Wrangler is no exception, having evolved from the popular CJ model into the beast it is today.
T.J. (1997-2006)
It was time for a facelift exactly 10 years after the launching of the YJ. During the YJ's tenure on the market, the automobile industry saw numerous breakthroughs. Vehicles improved in terms of intelligence, efficiency, and, of course, strength. As a result, Jeep realized that the Wrangler needed a boost if it was to remain a viable contender. There are many Jeep aficionados who still believe that the TJ versions were the most prominent Wranglers ever produced. This does not appear to be rose-tinted reminiscence, according to multiple testimonies.
Throughout its life, the Wrangler TJ kept its famed powertrains, which featured a 4.0L V6 engine. Because restrictions regarding engines and their pollution emissions have changed throughout this time, old-school Jeep aficionados have been able to visibly feel a difference by merely running the vehicle.
TK (2007-2017)
Following the TJ was the Wrangler JK, which was produced for the longest time. The following generation would not be released for nearly a decade, as opposed to the nine-year release cycle witnessed up until this point. For the first time in history, this Wrangler generation offered four doors in addition to the two-door option that had been standard since the model's inception. Several advantages would result from this, the most notable of which is its ability to accommodate a wide spectrum of drivers. Four-door variants would solidify the Wrangler as the clear choice for both new and old Jeep enthusiasts who travel with their families yet love off-roading on the side.
JL (2018-Present)
Finally, we get at the JL, which is the most recent generation of Wrangler vehicles to be produced. The Wrangler had undergone multiple updates by this point, bringing it up to speed with rival off-roading SUVs in terms of technology, safety, and performance. There are safety features such as forward collision warning and blindspot monitoring, as well as modern technology such as a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. Off-roading with the JL is the safest it has ever been with the Wrangler, thanks to all of the additional technology and safety measures.
You can always search these models which are new Jeeps available near me, find them, and purchase them, Good luck!