Introduced to the auto market in 1987, the Jeep Wrangler has roots dating back to World War II. As Jeep Wrangler history has it, in 1941, Willys-Overland, an automobile company was commissioned by the US government to provide four-wheel drives to be used in the war.
More than 300,000 MB models were produced during the war. Later on, the MB vehicle picked up the nickname ‘Jeep’. Of those 144 Jeeps were issued to every U.S. Army infantry regiment. Some Jeeps were also issued to each U.S. Marine Corps regiment.
Generations of Jeep Wrangler
Jeep Wrangler is currently in its fifth generation. The first generation of Jeep Wrangler, called the CJ was introduced in the 40s. Let’s go through the Jeep Wrangler history throughout these generations in detail.
Jeep Wrangler CJ – First Generation (1944 – 1986)
Willys introduced the CJ or Civilian Jeep in 1944. This was Jeep Wrangler’s first generation. The CJ was redesigned in this era for civilian use with the addition of a tailgate, a canvas top and gear lowering. A spare tyre was also mounted to the side of the vehicle.
Earlier, the military version had a foldable windshield. An interesting fact about Jeep Wrangler is that the model gave a windshield foldable option throughout its five generations for a complete off-roading experience.
Jeep Wrangler YJ – Second Generation (1986 – 1995)
Jeep Wrangler YJ was introduced in 1986 at an auto show held in Chicago. This model received important updates including wider track, reduced body roll, lower ride height and a larger windshield.
Other important features introduced in this generation include suspension grades, anti-roll bars and square headlights. These features made the Jeep Wrangler safer and comfortable.
Over the years, YJ added more comfortable features such as rear seat belts and antilock brakes. Thanks to these additions, the Jeep Wrangler YJ was considered a vehicle fit for off-roading and daily routine drives, alike.
Jeep Wrangler TJ – Third Generation (1996 – 2006)
Produced from 1996 to 2006, the Jeep Wrangler TJ introduced round headlights, and durable frame and body design. The TJ generation included coil spring suspension and important safety features such as airbags.
Jeep Wrangler JK – Fourth Generation (2006 – 2018)
In the fourth generation, the Jeep Wrangler models were totally redesigned with four doors. The Jeep Wrangler JK generation was wider, longer and taller with a longer wheelbase. The JK generation also made more room for passengers and cargo. Other important features introduced in the fourth generation include stability control, traction control, a wider body and plastic fenders in the front.
Jeep Wrangler JL – Fifth Generation (2018 – Present)
Jeep Wrangler’s fifth generation started in 2018 with the JL model. The JL generation received a number of features, including technology and important off-road capabilities. The doors, hood and windshield frame in this generation were made from aluminium.
Other modern technology features the JL gained include rear parking sensors, an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system and blind-spot monitoring system.
That is all about the Jeep Wrangler history. The SUV is known for its off-roading capabilities, safety features and road performance. If you wish to buy one for yourself, here is a list of used Jeep Wranglers for sale in the UAE.
Stay tuned to your favourite auto blog for more on car history, facts, repair tips and much more.
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