There are few vehicles as iconic as the Jeep Wrangler. With its rugged exterior and classic blockish style, no other Jeep — or any other car — can match its appeal. The Wrangler has evolved quite a bit since it was first introduced in 1987, but its signature look remains the same. If you’re considering buying a Wrangler, but you’re not sure which model is right for you, consider the information contained in this guide. You’ll need to know exactly what model you have when you’re shopping for CJ5 parts, and the following facts can help you choose the best Jeep for your needs.
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Body Types
The first factor to consider when you’re deciding what Wrangler to choose is which body type you want. These generally come in four styles — YJ, TJ, JK, and JL — each of which represents a unique take on the original Wrangler style. The first of these, the YJ, represents the initial design that was made way back in the late 80s. This version of the Wrangler features square-shaped headlights, which marked a departure from the rounded headlights of past Jeep models. Its two-door construction makes it compact and lightweight — perfect for all of your off-road adventures — and it’s available in both a hard top and soft top, making it one of the most versatile Wrangler models available.
The TJ represents the second generation of the Wrangler, and it’s just as attractive as the first. Differences include a return to the round headlight style as well as a suspension that features leaf springs rather than coil springs. In 2007, the JK emerged as the third generation of the Wrangler, and it became the first to offer a four-door model. This makes it larger than other body styles, but that’s not the only difference. It’s also reportedly more aerodynamic thanks to Wrangler JK parts such as a curved windshield. Finally, in 2018, the JL was unveiled. This Jeep is tailored to off-roading thanks to its optimized crawl ratio and its LED running lights.
Motor Differences
The various Wrangler models boast many aesthetic differences, but there are plenty of differences under the hood, too. All trim styles after 2020 currently feature a 3.6L Pentastar® V6 engine, which offers an incredibly powerful boost to the Jeep’s performance. Some Jeepers prefer to replace this engine with other options, though, such as a 3.0L EcoDiesel or a 5.7L HEMI® V8 with eTorque. In some cases, you may be able to customize your Jeep and order it from the factory with an engine of your choosing.
No matter what engine your Jeep features, though, there are always ways to boost its performance. You can invest in Jeep Wrangler or Jeep CJ7 accessories to give your Jeep the power it needs to rock climb, off-road, or embark on any other kind of adventure. Upgrades like lifted suspension or all-terrain tires can give your Wrangler a much-needed boost so that you never have to worry about its ability to drive in unpredictable conditions.
