Used Jeep Wrangler Buying Guide

• The latest generation of these off-roading SUVs is capable as ever, featuring a wider range of engine options and tech features than ever before!
• To help you choose a used Jeep Wrangler with all the features you crave, we’ve listed the major updates to each fourth-generation model year.
• Compared to older models, the third-generation Wrangler’s cabin is roomier and more refined.

Tough as ever, these modern Wrangler SUVs also take both rugged capabilities and on-road refinement to a whole other level. Compared to previous model years, the fourth-generation Jeep Wrangler introduced new styling, an updated engine lineup, extra cabin space, and a smoother ride on the pavement. As the years progressed, more engine options — including the plug-in hybrid 4xe powertrain and the Rubicon 392’s extra-rugged V8 — helped make this iconic off-road SUV more powerful than ever!

Important: There were two Wranglers available for the 2018 model year. The first was part of the third generation (JK) and the second was a member of the redesigned fourth-generation (JL). From the outside, the most obvious way to tell the difference between these two 2018 Wranglers is that the newer, redesigned version is longer, wider, and taller than the outgoing model. And once you get going, you’ll notice that the redesigned Wrangler has the smoothest ride!

To help you figure out which used Wrangler is available with which features, we’ve listed all the major updates according to model year. So if you’re looking for something specific — like the 392 V8 engine or the Dana 44 rear axle — you’ll know where to start!

• Power windows and door locks are now standard for every Wrangler
• Available Active Cabin Ventilation system lets drivers pre-ventilate the cabin via smartphone app
• New ’41 exterior paint color

• Rubicon X trim model debuts, adding luxury features to the ultra-rugged Rubicon lineup
• Newly standard first- and second-row side-curtain airbags
• Sport S and up get standard forward collision warning and advanced cruise control with automatic stop
• Updated exterior styling, including updated grille, all-new wheel designs, available Sky One-Touch Powertop
• Modern tech upgrades, with all-new Uconnect 5 system, 12.3-inch touchscreen, standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
• Uconnect system now includes 62 off-road trail guides; 3,000+ trail guides are available via subscription
• Willys trim model debuts with larger tires, extra ground clearance, high fender flares, and upgraded traction
• Available factory-installed Warn winch with 8,000-pound capacity
• Available Dana 44 HD full float solid rear axle (allows for tire upsizing and 5,000-pound max towing)

• Limited-edition Freedom trim model debuts, featuring exclusive military-themed styling, American flag decal, steel front bumper, and rock rails
• New standard and optional wheel designs for the Rubicon
• Two new colors: Earl (replaced Snazzberry) and Reign (limited availability)

• Rubicon models with the 3.6-liter V6 are now available with 4.88 axle ratio, delivering a 100:1 crawl ratio
• Sport and Sport S now come standard with 7-inch infotainment touchscreen
• Sahara and Rubicon now come standard with remote proximity keyless entry and 8.4-inch touchscreen
• A newly standard cabin air filter removes 95 percent of air particles
• Billet Silver exterior paint deleted from lineup, replaced by Silver Zynith

• Turbocharged 2.0-liter plug-in hybrid powertrain, known as the 4xe, debuts
• New Rubicon 392 trim features a 6.4-liter V8 (470 hp, 470 lb-ft)
• New forward-facing TrailCam off-road camera available
• Advanced Selec-Trac two-speed transfer case with full-time four-wheel drive now available for Sport trim
• Two additional charge-only USB ports are optional
• In addition to the Sahara, the Sport and Rubicon are now available with the 3.6L V6 with mild-hybrid eTorque assist
• Available Wrangler 80th Anniversary Edition trim model, featuring exclusive styling and commemorative badging

• The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine debuts
• Sport and Rubicon trims are now available with the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4
• Only the Sahara trim is available with the 3.6L V6 engine with mild-hybrid eTorque assist
• Sport trim now available with LED headlamps and fog lamps
• When equipped with built-in navigation, the Wrangler’s available Advanced Safety Group package now includes automatic high beams

• The available Advanced Safety Group package adds adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning to its offerings
• New paint color, Bikini, debuts