Jeep Wrangler History

If you’re like most Kansas City drivers, then when you think of Jeep, you probably think of the Jeep Wrangler. Being as it’s one of the oldest models in the Jeep lineup, it’s unsurprising that many drivers would associate this vehicle as being the face of the brand. But, what does Jeep stand for? When was the first Jeep Wrangler ever made? Take a look at the unique Jeep Wrangler history with Lee’s Summit Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram, and experience the legacy of the Jeep Wrangler when you take it for a test run at our dealership.

What Does Jeep Stand For?

How did the Jeep brand come up with the iconic name? Nobody really knows with absolute certainty where the Jeep name comes from, but there are plenty of speculations. One speculation claims that Jeep is an acronym standing for “Just Enough Essential Parts”, commenting on the simplicity and reliability of Jeep vehicles. Another idea of what Jeep stands for comes from its military origins. As a military vehicle, it was originally given the label “GP”, which many believe to mean “General Purpose”. However, closer research has indicated that the letter “G” meant it was a government contract vehicle, and “P” was marked to show that it had an 80-inch wheelbase.

Jeep Wrangler History Through the Decades

Even though the Jeep Wrangler is a popular vehicle among Blue Springs outdoor enthusiasts and other kinds of drivers alike, it didn’t start out as a commercial vehicle for the public. Take a look at the humble beginnings of the very first Jeep Wrangler and its progression throughout the decades:

• 1940s: The conception of a Jeep Wrangler beginning the early 1940s, when the military needed a vehicle that soldiers could use on unfair road conditions. Thus, the Jeep Wrangler was born as a military-style transportation vehicle for soldiers.
• 1950s: Jeeps added to make the Jeep Wrangler a commercial vehicle that could be open to the public, and the Jeep Jamboree was the first commercial version of the Wrangler.
• 1960s: The Jeep Wagoneer made its debut as an SUV in the Jeep lineup that people with growing families could enjoy on carpooling, commutes, and weekend road trips. Jeep also expanded its lineup to include 14 different models.
• 1970s: The all-too-familiar Jeep Grand Cherokee was introduced and was the first Jeep model to be equipped with Jeep 4×4 capability.
• 1980s: The Jeep Grand Cherokee XJ model was given a slight redesign and a uniframe construction. It was also equipped with the first-ever full-time 4×4 construction.
• 1990s: The Jeep Wrangler, along with the Jeep Grand Cherokee, stapled their names as the go-to vehicles for those who longed to take the unbeaten paths and off-road trails.
• 2000s: With the start of a new millennium, Jeep fans were surprised with a new four-door Jeep Wrangler model.
• 2020s: The even more powerful Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 model was introduced.

Who Makes Jeep Wrangler Cars?

While Jeep Wranglers are obviously under the Jeep brand, the brain itself is actually under the parent company Fiat Chrysler, which also overseas Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, FIAT, and RAM. Where are Jeep Wrangler models made today? There are Jeep manufacturing plants all over the world, most of the Jeep Wrangler models are manufactured in the Ohio branch of Fiat Chrysler. If you’ve found this helpful, take a look at the weight of a Jeep Wrangler and other information about this legendary vehicle at Lee’s Summit Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram.

Experience the Jeep Wrangler Legend in Lee’s Summit

Now that you know a little bit more about the Jeep Wrangler history, head on over to Lee’s Summit Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram near Independence to enjoy the legacy of the Jeep Wrangler for yourself. For inventory to find a Jeep Wrangler that you love, and use our new vehicle specials to see how much you can save.