History of the Jeep Wrangler JK 2007-2017

The latest Jeep model, the Wrangler JK, comes in two-door and four-door versions. The 4-door option is officially known as the Wrangler JKU or Unlimited. With the exception of Wrangler JKU or Wrangler JK Unlimited, a Wrangler JK is always a two-door vehicle, regardless of trim and edition. This Jeep model, manufactured from 2007 to 2017, was more extensive than its predecessor. Since the JK also came with oversized tires, this model had a distinct grille, logo, and integrated turn signals. The Wrangler JK/JKU had horizontal door handles with a button to press and fog lights incorporated into the fog bumper. Compared to the JK model, the Wrangler JKU had a longer wheelbase. The vehicle's body bears the stamps of the various Wrangler JK/JKU models. The grille is the only distinguishing feature between the Wrangler TJ and JK versions, despite their striking similarities in appearance.

The year

• Wrangler JK: On this model, a computer controls the engine, transmission, and some extended brake operations. Additionally, the lights and auxiliary equipment are controlled by computers. This model comes equipped with a soft-top Sunrider convertible. A three-piece modular hardtop is optional. The doors may still be removed, as is customary with Wranglers, and for the first time, remote power door locks and windows were available. This Jeep Wrangler model was the first to incorporate a navigation system and modified tail lights.
• Wrangler JK Unlimited or JKU: the four-door 2007 Wrangler JKU was released in 2006 and was longer than the TJ Unlimited model (Wrangler LJ). The Wrangler JKU was the last two-door SUV with a four-door option and the only SUV with a four-door convertible. The engine and transmission options for the Wrangler JKU are identical to those of the Wrangler JK. In the US, 4x2 rear wheel drive was an option for the Sahara and X grades. This 4x2 rear wheel drive option was dropped after 2010, and starting in 2011, 4wheel drive became the default. The Wrangler JKU is the only four-door convertible SUV accessible because the Hummer H1 with rag top option is no longer offered in the US.
• Wrangler J8: introduced at the end of 2007, this Wrangler JKU was created for military applications. With a total weight of 1,339 kg, the Jeep J8 was unarmored and featured more oversized axles, suspension parts, and brakes than the civilian model. This type has heavy-duty leaf springs on the back, allowing the vehicle to tow a greater weight. The J8 is powered by a 2.8L VM four-cylinder Turbo-Diesel engine that produces 158 horsepower. This variant has a five-speed automatic transmission, a special air intake system with a snorkel installed on the bonnet, and a sophisticated filtering system that allows the vehicle to withstand up to five hours of sandstorms and wade through water up to thirty inches deep. The J8 is made with eight seats and either left or right-hand drive. It can be a two-door vehicle with a long pickup at the back or a four-door multipurpose vehicle. The Jeep J8 type is only offered as a foreign military vehicle made in Egypt because it does not comply with US emission regulations.

The difference

• The grille is one notable way that the Wrangler JK/JKU differs from other Jeep models. On this model, the grill has been moderately slanted back with a rake, making the lowest portion protrude the most.
• Where it was previously absent, the Jeep logo was placed on top of the grille.
• The safety features of the Wrangler JK and Unlimited models were improved. This includes a disconnect mechanism for the electronic sway bar on the Rubicon trim, an anti-lock braking system for off-road use, and an electronically restricted slip differential for the traction control system.
• Instead of the vertical hinges that were previously available, the JK sports variant included horizontal hinges on the door.
• The Wrangler JK included numerous firsts for Jeep Wranglers, such as a new security system, a navigation system, various computer-controlled features, and modified tail lights.

What happened

Under the code "JK," the development of a replacement for the Wrangler TJ was approved back in 2001. Design got on right away, and in 2004, a conceptual preview and something concrete was realized. By the end of 2004, the 2005 Jeep Gladiator concept was on exhibit, showcasing a number of design elements that will be used in the next JK. The Wrangler JK was released in 2006.

The 2007 Wrangler JK replaced the TJ's framework, completely redesigning the Wrangler and adding a four-door variant. The JK model's wheelbase was two inches longer than the preceding TJ model's, and the new chassis had a wider track. With about a 20-inch wheelbase, the Wrangler JKU had an upgraded rear seating area. The wheelbase of this JK Unlimited model was 2.4 inches longer than that of the TJ Unlimited model. Sahara, X, and Rubicon trim levels were available for both 2-door and 4-door versions of the Wrangler JK/JKU, starting with the model's initial manufacturing in 2006.

What changed

• The Wrangler JK was the available right-hand drive option from 2007 to 2008; however, the Wrangler JKU replaced it in 2009.
• Over the years, there were various editions of the Wrangler JK/JKU:
• Sahara edition: this luxury version has power windows, body-colored fenders, an infinity sound system with seven speakers, and power locks and windows.
• Rubicon edition: This package focuses on off-roading. It includes rock rails, an 8.8-inch gear ring, a 32-spline rear axle, a front and rear II Dana 44 axle, Rock-Trac 4-wheel drive, and 4.10-axle gearing. Rubicon decals adorn the hood's sides.
• Oscar Mike/Freedom edition: this version features silver sewn "Oscar Mike" on the tectonic fabric of the black seats, along with "Oscar Mike" fender emblems and a militarized star on the bonnet and rear quarter panels. The military slang meaning "on the move" is "Oscar Mike." Additionally, the seats, door pulls, door fabric, leather steering wheel, grab handle, and dash vent rings are all aligned with accents of silver stitching.