If you’ve ever wondered when the Jeep Wrangler first showed up, you’re not alone. It’s one of those vehicles that feels like it’s always been around. But it did have a clear starting point. The first Jeep Wrangler was made in 1986 and released to the public in 1987 as a 1987 model year vehicle. That’s when the Wrangler name officially began.
A Short Backstory Before the Wrangler
Before the Wrangler, Jeep already had a strong reputation for tough, go-anywhere vehicles. Those older Jeeps were known as the CJ series. They were popular, but by the mid-1980s, Jeep needed something more comfortable, safer, and better for everyday driving.
So, Jeep retired the CJ line and introduced something new — the Wrangler.
The Birth of the First Jeep Wrangler (YJ)
1986: Production Starts
Jeep began building the first Wrangler in 1986.
1987: Public Release
The vehicle was sold as a 1987 Jeep Wrangler, also known as the Wrangler YJ.
This model kept the classic Jeep look but added modern updates to meet new road safety rules.
What Made the First Wrangler Different?
The first Wrangler wasn’t just a renamed CJ. It had clear changes:
- Square headlights (a big shock for Jeep fans)
- A wider and more stable body
- Better on-road comfort
- Improved safety features
It was still great off-road, but now it worked better as a daily driver too.
Pros and Cons of the First Jeep Wrangler (YJ)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong off-road ability | Square headlights were unpopular |
| Tough and reliable build | Less powerful engine options |
| More comfortable than CJ models | Not very fuel-efficient |
| Easy to customize | Basic interior |
Real-World Examples
- Off-road fans liked the YJ because it could handle dirt trails, mud, and rocks without much trouble.
- City drivers found it easier to live with than older Jeeps because it rode smoother on highways.
- Many Wrangler YJs are still on the road today, which says a lot about their durability.
Jeep Wrangler Timeline (Quick Look)
- 1986 – First Wrangler built
- 1987–1995 – Wrangler YJ era
- 1997–2006 – Wrangler TJ
- 2007–2018 – Wrangler JK
- 2018–Present – Wrangler JL
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Was the it made before 1987?
The Wrangler name did not exist before 1987. Earlier Jeeps were CJ models.
Why did Jeep stop making the CJ?
The CJ didn’t meet newer safety and comfort standards, so Jeep replaced it with the Wrangler.
What does YJ mean in Jeep Wrangler?
YJ is the internal code Jeep used for the first Wrangler generation.
Are early Jeep Wranglers still worth buying?
Yes, many people still buy YJ Wranglers for off-road fun, restorations, or weekend driving.
Did the first Wrangler have round headlights?
No, the first Wrangler had square headlights. Jeep later returned to round headlights in newer models.
Final Verdict
The first Jeep Wrangler was made in 1986 and launched as a 1987 model, marking a fresh chapter in Jeep’s history. It kept the rugged Jeep spirit alive while adding better comfort and safety for modern drivers. Even today, that first its generation is respected, driven, and loved by Jeep fans around the world.
If you’re into Jeep history, the 1987 Wrangler is where the its story truly begins.