The Jeep Wrangler replaces the CJ in 1987

In 1987, the Jeep Wrangler debuted. Compared to the Jeep CJ, the YJ Wrangler was a lighter and better driving replacement.

Jon Wong

Dec. 14, 2017 6:00 a.m. PT

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FCA

1987 Jeep Wrangler Laredo

In response to market demands for small four-wheel-drive vehicles with more daily comfort features, Jeep discontinued the CJ series and replaced it with the Wrangler.

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1987 Jeep Wrangler

Like the CJ, the Wrangler retained a body-on-frame setup.

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1987 Jeep Wrangler

To improve handling, the YJ Wrangler's suspension featured track bars and antiroll bars.

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1988 Jeep Wrangler Sahara

At launch, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 121 horsepower and 135 pound-feet of torque served as the base engine. A 4.2-liter inline six-cylinder was also available with with 112 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque.

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1989 Jeep Wrangler Laredo

In 1991, an upgraded 4.0-liter inline six-cylinder replaced the 4.2-liter as the available engine upgrade.

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1989 Jeep Wrangle Rubicon concept

The 1989 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Concept based off of the YJ.

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1990 Jeep Wrangler Islander

The Islander option package included body-color wheel flares and side steps, sunset graphics on the hood and lower body and Islander logos on the front fenders and spare tire cover.

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