2012 Jeep Wrangler Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
The biggest news to come out of Toledo, Ohio (where Jeep Wranglers are manufactured), this summer is that the 2012 Wrangler has a new...
The biggest news to come out of Toledo, Ohio (where Jeep Wranglers are manufactured), this summer is that the 2012 Wrangler has a new powertrain – gone is the old 3.8-liter V6, replaced with a Pentastar dual-overhead-cam 24-valve aluminum block V6, which maxes out at 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque (an improvement over the former engine’s 202 hp and 237 lb-ft of torque). The gearboxes available are either the standard 6-speed manual transmission or a brand new A580 5-speed automatic (upgraded from the former 4-speed). Gas mileage remains poor for the 2012 Wrangler, which rates at only 17 mpg city/21 highway, on the low end for similar vehicles of its size.
Jeep offers two body styles – the Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited, which are each available in three 4-wheel-drive trims for 2012: Rubicon, Sahara and Sport. The Rubicon remains the only 4-door convertible SUV on the market today. The differences between the Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited, besides the number of doors (3 for the Wrangler and 5 for the Wrangler Unlimited) are seating capacity, which is 4 for the Wrangler and 5 for the Wrangler Unlimited; the wheelbase, which is 95.4 inches for the Wrangler and 116 inches for the Unlimited; and body length (152.8 for Wrangler/173.4 for Unlimited).
In addition to a new powertrain, other improvements for 2012 include a redesigned steering wheel, armrests and a locking glove box. The soft-top mechanism has been improved for easier attachment and removal and allows for either a targa setup or full convertible.
Standard equipment for the 2012 Jeep Wrangler includes several information gauges, such as a compass, external temperature gauge and gas mileage performance monitor, as well as front driver and passenger airbags, rollover protection bars, tire pressure monitor, fog lights, tow hooks, heated seats and heated mirrors. The Jeep Wrangler is available in eight exterior colors for 2012: Black, Bright White, Natural Green Pearl, Mango Tango Pearl, Cosmos Blue, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl, Bright Silver Metallic, Flame Red and Sahara Tan.
Options for the 2012 Wrangler include Bluetooth connectivity, Sirius XM satellite radio (with a 90-day free trial), navigation, automatic climate control and steel alloy wheels. Also available is a hardcore off-road package, which includes heavy-duty axles, locking differentials, a Rock-Trac transfer case with the sway-bar disconnect, extra-low gearing and knobby BF Goodrich tires (available on Rubicon versions only).
Safety features remain a sore spot for the 2012 Jeep Wrangler. Never a darling of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Wrangler is rated as only Good for frontal impact crashes, Moderate for rear-impact crashes and Poor for side-impact crashes. In fact side-impact airbags are an option only for Wrangler Unlimited trims and are not available for 2-door Wranglers. Other safety features are present, however, including antilock brakes, stability control, Hill Start Assist and Trailer Sway Control.
With the addition of the Pentastar drivetrain, the Wrangler has a surprising amount of pep and is able to reach 60 mph in 8.4 seconds in Unlimited versions (and 7.7 in the 2-door Sahara and Sport trims). However, keep in mind that Wranglers are built for handling bumpy terrain first, so don’t expect much comfort when driving in the city. You will know you're riding in a Wrangler when you attempt to navigate winding roads or rough pavement due to the live front axle setup and recirculating ball steering. New for 2012, however, is the addition of sound baffling inside the cabin, which makes this the quietest Wrangler in recent memory.
The Jeep Wrangler’s ruggedness is what attracts most buyers to the line, and it remains the top selling point for 2012. The Wrangler has a rugged underbody protected by skid plates and can handle rough terrain as well as any other off-road vehicle, if not better. The Wrangler has 10.2 inches of ground clearance, which help it maneuver well on rocky terrain.
Overall, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler feels and rides like a Jeep – which is a good thing when off-roading and not quite as good when tooling around the city. However, the powertrain improvements alone should continue to keep the Wrangler far ahead of its competition, which includes the Dodge Nitro, Suburu Forester and Nissan Xterra.
What owners say
"Overall, Jeep Wrangler owners love their vehicles for their fun driving experience and off-road capabilities. They appreciate the improved power of the 3.6L engine and the versatility for both daily use and adventures. However, some drivers do mention issues with fuel economy and reliability, suggesting that potential buyers should check for necessary repairs or upgrades before purchasing."
I like this Jeep for style and daily use Have had four in the last and would like another
November 13, 2024If you are looking to get a wrangler, especially the JK body type (2007-2018) you’ll wanna get no older than the 2012. It has the upgraded engine that has significantly more power, and other upgraded parts that make it better than the 07-11... A few little issues with it that push some to go for the 2013+ but those were remedied with recalls and washed out with aftermarket parts. You know you want one so, go for it!!!
October 30, 2020One of my favorite vehicles. There are few things like driving with the top and doors off of a quick vehicle with a manual transmission. How driving should be. Sure, it's basically a two-seater and has the ride quality of a turnip wagon. If you want comfort you should look elsewhere. This is much more comfortable than previous Wranglers, but still an acquired taste. With the new 3.6L engine, power is finally well beyond adequate and could be called excessive in certain situations. If you are looking for utility and fun: look no further.
March 10, 2014What owners say
I like this Jeep for style and daily use Have had four in the last and would like another
November 13, 2024If you are looking to get a wrangler, especially the JK body type (2007-2018) you’ll wanna get no older than the 2012. It has the upgraded engine that has significantly more power, and other upgraded parts that make it better than the 07-11... A few little issues with it that push some to go for the 2013+ but those were remedied with recalls and washed out with aftermarket parts. You know you want one so, go for it!!!
October 30, 2020One of my favorite vehicles. There are few things like driving with the top and doors off of a quick vehicle with a manual transmission. How driving should be. Sure, it's basically a two-seater and has the ride quality of a turnip wagon. If you want comfort you should look elsewhere. This is much more comfortable than previous Wranglers, but still an acquired taste. With the new 3.6L engine, power is finally well beyond adequate and could be called excessive in certain situations. If you are looking for utility and fun: look no further.
March 10, 2014Love being able to haul my family and stuff and still tow trailer. Also love the option of removing the top in summer. Fuel economy could be better but I expected this as it's a heavy body on frame four wheel drive vehicle.
November 19, 2013I really like the 4 door 2012 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport 6 Cy 3.6L Engine very responsive. Plenty of room inside between the seats and large cargo area!
March 27, 2023Overall great utility vehicle. The overall reliability can be subpar for the 2012 model year including issues with oil pumps, cylinder heads, and various sensors. The ability to pull the doors off, remove the top, and fold down the windshield make this an extremely fun offroad vehicle. The available aftermarket parts makes it easy to turn your cookie cutter jeep into exactly what you want. One of my favorite vehicles for that purpose. Overall as a daily driver I wouldnt recommend it. Fuel economy is poor acceleration is ok. Versatility is good. If this is more of a fun vehicle and not the one you count on taking to work everyday then jump in and enjoy the trails.
March 26, 20232012 is the first for the 3.6 Pentax motor. Huge upgrade from the 3.8 better power and fuel mileage. Overall the 2012 is the best value when looking for used jeeps
January 12, 2021I enjoy everything about this vehical. The combination of hard top for winter & soft top for summer & the ability for trail or winter travel confidence is unmatched. Looking to buy a 2 door to jaunt around town in. If you're looking for a fun vehical with excellent resale value Jeep Wrangler is it.
May 12, 2013Its sharp looking, reliable, and has all bells and whistles! Top and doors come completely off, and windshield folds down.It sits high enuff to go thru any standing water. Always receiving compliments and getting the Jeep wave everywhere I go!
November 20, 2012I really enjoy this car. My husband and I want to have kids and we are looking for a 'family' car. It's such a fun car to drive, it's good on gas and handles very, very well in any condition.
January 25, 2013Trims & specs
Base MSRP $22,045 | Seating 4 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 17.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $31,869 | Seating 4 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 17.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP N/A | Seating N/A |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $27,970 | Seating 4 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 17.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $29,995 | Seating 4 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 17.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP N/A | Seating N/A |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $36,495 | Seating 4 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 17.2 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $33,570 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 46.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $30,745 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 46.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP N/A | Seating N/A |
Engine N/A | Cargo Capacity N/A |
Combined MPG N/A | Drivetrain N/A |
Base MSRP $34,744 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 46.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $40,070 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 46.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $25,545 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 46.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $29,435 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 285 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 46.4 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Pricing trends
MSRP range
$22,045 - $40,070
Current avg. market price
$13,212
Trending down by 1.7% this month
May 2026 - October 2026
