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The 40 mpg Cars of 2013

2008 Jeep Wrangler

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Curious about the newer model? Check out the 2014 Jeep Wrangler

Overview

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2008 Jeep Wrangler Review

By KBB.com Editors

The 65-year history of what has become America's definitive off-roader---and an icon on the level of national treasures such as the Corvette and Mustang---began with a run of nearly 650,000 units built for use during the last world war. Distributed strictly for civilian enjoyment today, Jeep claims the percentage of Wrangler owners who take their vehicles off road is higher than that of any other brand. A short wheelbase, solid front and rear axles and renowned all-wheel-drive systems combine in a perennial favorite of rock crawlers, mudders and light off-roaders alike. Fresh from a complete overhaul in 2007, the 2008 Jeep Wrangler is both the most capable and the most livable ever.

You'll Like This Car If...

Whether you're an off-road enthusiast, an occasional camper or just a city slicker with a back-country mindset, the rugged yet refined 2008 Jeep Wrangler is sure to please.

You May Not Like This Car If...

For off-roading Wrangler enthusiasts, the 2008 model's extra five inches in width over the previous generation may take some getting used to. Back in town, the more livable Wrangler still isn't as buttoned down as SUVs like the Nissan Xterra or Toyota FJ Cruiser.

What's New for 2008

New features include a standard tire pressure monitor and an optional remote start. A right-hand drive Wrangler X is now available for the U.S and Canada.

Driving the Wrangler

Driving Impressions That the 2008 Jeep Wrangler so effortlessly delivered us from our starting point in the middle of the notorious, boulder-strewn Rubicon Trail back to the striped pavement of civilization did...

not surprise us. The latest Wrangler is rich with new and improved hardware---and software---that renders it even more capable than its predecessor; and that's saying something, considering the previous generation was already one of the most accomplished off-roaders in the world. Still, we were impressed by the uncanny ease with which the Wrangler traversed massive rocks and by the sheer solidity of its three skid plates. One feature we appreciated most is the electronic throttle, which allows for smooth throttle application in low range. Owners of previous Wrangler models will notice a markedly smoother and quieter ride which, once off trail, transforms the Wrangler from a weekend plaything into a viable everyday vehicle.

Favorite Features

Electronic-Disconnecting Sway Bar
When rocks on the trail turn into boulders, the Wrangler's front stabilizer bar disconnects at the push of a button for increased wheel travel.

Three-Piece Hardtop
The Wrangler's hardtop now features panels above the driver and front passenger that can be removed independently and stored in the vehicle, allowing for more spontaneous exposure.

2008 Jeep Wrangler Details

Interior

If the addition of niceties like power windows, power locks and a navigation system has you worried that the Wrangler has gotten soft, you'll be happy to know that the changes inside are as evolutionary as the changes outside. They're big improvements to be sure---with higher quality materials and more contemporary styling than previous Wranglers---but the rugged, purpose-built feel remains. Unlimited (four-door) models offer seating for five, which is a first for any Wrangler. Interior color options include gray or khaki and the exterior color carries into the cabin via the door panels. The additional five inches of width make for a noticeably roomier passenger cabin.

Exterior

In proper Jeep fashion, the 2008 Wrangler's doors (full-framed or half) are still removable, its windshield is still foldable and the hinges and latches are still exposed. The familiar signature seven-slot grille and round headlamps present a face as distinctive and recognizable as any on the road. Still, while the newest Wrangler's styling is instantly familiar and every bit as rugged as its decade-old predecessor's, it's also decidedly more contemporary. Wrangler veterans will appreciate the bigger tires and additional ground clearance, but may decry the extra five inches in width while negotiating tight trails---and the absence of easily replaceable bumper caps at the ends of those trails. Roof options include two soft tops and a nifty three-piece hardtop. The first-ever four-door Wrangler rides on a wheelbase that's 20.6 inches longer than that of the traditional two-door.

Notable Equipment

Standard Equipment

The least expensive Jeep Wrangler comes with Command-Trac shift-on-the-fly part-time four-wheel drive, a six-speed manual transmission, soft top, six-speaker AM/FM/CD/ audio system with MP3 capability, auxiliary audio input, vinyl seats, three skid plates, 16-inch steel wheels, full metal doors with roll up windows, front airbags and electronic stability and traction control systems including rollover mitigation. In addition to four doors, the base Wrangler Unlimited gets cloth seats with height-adjustable driver's seat and air conditioning.

Optional Equipment

Some of the Wrangler's more significant optional equipment includes a three-piece hardtop, air conditioning, power windows and door locks, remote keyless entry, MyGIG hard drive-based navigation and digital audio system, remote start, six-disc CD changer, front side-impact airbags and a variety of off-road hardware, the toughest of which come standard on Rubicon models.

Under the Hood

All 2008 Jeep Wranglers are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine mated with either a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. From there, power is distributed through a two-wheel-drive system (available on four-door models only) or one of two part-time four-wheel-drive systems, both of which include a two-speed transfer case. The beefier Rock-Trac system features a 4.00:1 low-range gear ratio (versus 2.72:1 for Command-Trac) and is standard on Rubicon models, which also feature beefier axle sets and locking differentials front and rear. Electronic brake-lock differentials help get power to the loaded wheels by braking spinning wheels. A limited-slip rear differential is upgradeable to a locking rear differential. Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited models can tow up to 2,000 and 3,500 pounds, respectively.

3.8-liter V6
205 horsepower @ 5200 rpm
240 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/21 (2WD, manual), 15/20 (2WD, automatic), 15/19 (4WD, manual), 15/19 (4WD, automatic)

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2008 Jeep Wrangler Consumer Reviews

Overall Rating

8.7

Out of 10

Based on 612 Ratings for the 2007 - 2014 models.

Review this car

Value

9.0/10

Quality

8.9/10
Reliability

9.2/10

Performance

8.8/10
Comfort

8.7/10

Styling

9.2/10

Just what I was waiting for!! Awesome!!

By OCD man (MA) on Friday, July 19, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 5,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Go anywhere, upgrades are endless, all season vehi"

Cons: "None yet"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"I have owned three CJ-7'S prior to this wrangler and they were a blast. When I found out that Penstar made a 285 HP motor for JK I had to test drive.. After test drive it ended up in my driveway.after a few after market changes lift kit, rims, 33" nitto's, Gibson exhaust,and a cold air intake I'm done. I have driven a lot of cars from vettes to M3's and jeep is by far the most fun go anywhere vehicle I've owned!!"

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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It's O.K., but would not buy again

By tishpit (FL) on Monday, June 24, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 5,800

10 6.0

overall rating 6 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 6/10
Value: 5/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 4/10
Performance: 5/10
Styling: 4/10
Comfort: 4/10

Pros: "Goes anywhere, rugged build, iconic image"

Cons: "New engine/tranny still only 18 MPG, quality so-so"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 5

"I had a 2004 Jeep Liberty that I LOVED... but traded due to gas tank placement freaking me out (had been rear-ended 3x prior). That car was a total joy... NEVER a repair in over 70,000 miles, though it had a drinking problem... 18 MPG overall on level ground. After a few attempts at Ford products and nothing but misery, I opted to go for a new Wrangler with hopes of recapturing that Jeep fun. Well... it's a mixed bag. The "new and improved engine and transmission" started off decent, then descended into a rut of about 18 MPG, just like the Liberty but with less room and not as fun to drive. The Freedom top leaks in heavy rain. The height adjuster on the driver's seat lowers itself and needs re-pumped periodically. Also seat cushion is long and hits back of legs. The drive is busy, but yeah, it's a truck, and now that I no longer need a vehicle to maneuver down mud-river roads, the Wrangler just isn't as pleasurable to live with as the old Liberty. Reaching anything in the back is a chore (2-door) and had to remove back seats (another chore) to fit anything much in rear. The Freedom top panels are heavy and awkward to handle, especially replacing them in a hurry (rain!). So going topless is not without effort and time and some place to keep the top, especially if you remove the rear (with HELP). The lights are great, incl. fogs, and it has that iconic Jeep persona. I guess it's all in what you need and like. Suggest you rent one before buying."

8 people out of 10 found this review helpful

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Not bad, only a couple of issues

By Mongo228 (TX) on Sunday, June 09, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 10,000

10 8.0

overall rating 8 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 8/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 6/10
Performance: 7/10
Styling: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10

Pros: "Fun to drive, reliable, tons of aftermarket mods"

Cons: "Soft top can be REALLY noisy at cruising speed"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 7

"I've owned this Jeep sinc Feb 2011. So far, for the most part, I really enjoy it! There are two detractors ... the chrome-painted plastic ring around the top of the shifter knob (the bezel) broke off about 6 months ago and the dealer has yet to replace it. My Jeep was one that was affected by a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) about the manual transmission popping out of 4th gear. The dealership is STILL waiting on parts five months after taking the vehicle in. Other than that, it's really a good vehicle. It hasn't left me stranded anywhere, I can fit in it (I'm 6' 4", 300+ pounds), even climbing into the back seat, though that takes some careful maneuvering, and it handles pretty well. This is a VAST improvement over the 1992 YJ I had in 1993-94. I would recommend the hard top; it's much quieter than the soft top. The ride, for a short wheelbase 4x4, is pretty smooth. It handles pretty well for a 4x4, too. With the new 285 BHP V6, it has respectable acceleration. I manage to average about 18+ MPG with combined highway and city street driving, but if I drive aggressively, that number can dip below 17. If you're looking for a vehicle that's fun to drive both on road and off, doesn't take up a lot of space, and has LOTS of aftermarket modification options, then I'd say this vehicle would be a good choice."

1 person out of 1 found this review helpful

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Jeep JK Sahara 2007

By Chico (NY) on Saturday, May 18, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 105,000

10 9.0

overall rating 9 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Reliability: 9/10
Quality: 9/10
Performance: 8/10
Styling: 7/10
Comfort: 7/10

Pros: "Fun to drive, keeps its value."

Cons: "2 door Jeep is hard to get in the back."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 9

"I bought my Jeep JK 2Dr. Sahara 2007 in 2006 when the new model just first came out in the market. My jeep currently have 105000 miles on it. I haven't had any problems mechanically except for 2 recalls from the manufacturer. I changed my oil regularly with synthetic mobil oil, check all around fluids like the brake fluid, transmission fluid and changed the spark plugs at 102000 miles. The shock absorbers have not been changed and the ride is still good. Although the new 2012 Jeep Wrangler have a new powerful engine at 285 hp that is to claim an extra mile on the gas. But all in all, the Jeep Wrangler had came a long way. I love my Jeep and will not trade it for any other vehicle. I've always driven a Jeep Wrangler since early 1992. I guess thats why I can never let it go."

7 people out of 7 found this review helpful

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A fun and sturdy vehicle

By Baseball Dad (TN) on Thursday, May 16, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 49,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 9/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Fun, sturdy, reliable, and looks great."

Cons: "You'll get tired of smiling."

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"We bought our Jeep Wrangler Unlimited as our third car. We've wanted a Jeep Wrangler for a long time, but with two boys in sports we needed more room for equipment. The four door with the trunk was perfect. We take the top down in April every year and leave it down until around November (park it in the garage for rainy days). It drives surprisingly well and has a ton of power. We are in our second year of ownership and smile ear to ear every time we pull out of the driveway, whether it is to a baseball tournament, football practice, or a run to a store or to eat. I've owned four other Jeeps (Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, and Liberty) and once again we are very pleased. Reliable and solid, plus it looks great. I would highly recommend. The only reason I didn't rate value as a "10" is the up front cost is high due to resale value being so high."

7 people out of 8 found this review helpful

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Love my Jeep

By John (CA) on Thursday, May 09, 2013

I own this car - My approximate mileage is 6,000

10 10.0

overall rating 10 of 10rating details

Reviewer Ratings

Overall Rating: 10/10
Value: 10/10
Reliability: 10/10
Quality: 10/10
Performance: 10/10
Styling: 10/10
Comfort: 10/10

Pros: "Fun to Drive, Easy to remove hard top,"

Cons: "Wish the stereo was louder"

Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10

"Special ordered a 2013 and couldn't be happier. It is exactly what I wanted. It's fun to drive around town, take the top off and enjoy the sun. The removable hardtop is the way to go. It's easy to use, a lot less wind noise then the soft top and it's 100% waterproof. The Jeep has been flawless and most of all, it's fun to drive."

5 people out of 5 found this review helpful

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