Jeep Models – Costa Mesa, CA

The Jeep Brand Philosophy

Jeep is an iconic American brand built on the values of freedom, adventure, and authenticity. Jeeps are designed as no-frills off-road performance machines that never disappoint when the rubber hits the road. There’s a reason that Jeep has such a loyal fan base. That’s because anyone who has owned one knows that Jeeps always deliver when other vehicles fall short.

Jeep’s long history spans over 75 years, starting in the 1940s where an early Jeep 4X4 supported thousands of Allied soldiers fighting for freedom around the world. The original Willys MB became a legendary hero, earning a reputation of fierce fearlessness and adventure that future Jeeps continued to build upon.

Several new models were born in the 1950s with enhanced frames, better suspension, waterproofing, and more powerful engines. The Jeep M-170 was a light troop carrier, heavily used for transporting wounded soldiers as a field ambulance. By the 1960s, the Jeep Wagoneer featured the first independent suspension and automatic transmission ever seen in a 4X4 vehicle. The Wagoneer was refined into one of the first luxury SUVs that combined four-wheel drive with the comfort and style of a passenger car.

Various Jeep designs in this decade ranged from pick-up trucks to the Jeep Fleetvan, popular with the postal service and icecream man. The Fleetvan’s sliding doors made it easy to operate and added to Jeep’s reputation for putting smart, functional design first. Jeep has played a role in just about every aspect of American life over the past century.

In the 1970s, Jeep rose to new sales heights with the introduction of sportier full-sized Cherokee models. The Jeep brand solidified its reputation as a versatile recreational vehicle with rugged pick-up trucks, like the Honcho. The CJ-5 camper became the first detachable system letting you take your accommodations with you for new explorations. The Jeep Cherokee was awarded Four Wheeler Magazine’s very first Achievement Award in 1974. This was one of many awards to come for Jeep, which has continuously demonstrated its dominance in capability and design.

With a focus on perfecting the SUV, the modern Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Renegade, and Jeep Compass boast top sales. The Renegade brought new features to the small SUV market, including the world’s first nine-speed automatic transmission in this class. Jeep doesn’t fall flat in terms of safety and technology features, offering substantial standard packages including award-winning UConnect touch screens and open-air dual-pane sunroofs.

Owning a Jeep isn’t just about buying an automobile; Jeep represents a lifestyle. By enabling you to conquer roads that most other vehicles wouldn’t dare to travel, Jeep gives drivers a greater opportunity to venture to new places and embrace exciting experiences. The Jeep lifestyle is all about living life by your own rules, never being limited by lackluster capability or subpar performance. Driving a Jeep means you’re ready to take on the open road with no fears because you’ve got a reliable companion to take you anywhere you want to go.

2020 Models

2020 Jeep Wrangler

Widely known around the world, the Wrangler has spent over half a century making a name for itself. This iconic model might just be the most recognized vehicle on the planet. Needless to say, the 2020 Jeep Wrangler is better than ever before. It has everything fans love about the Jeep models combined with all the latest tech features. This off-roading champion is the adventure vehicle that you want as your outdoor companion!

With available seating for up to five people, the 2020 Jeep Wrangler is produced in two body styles: 2-door and 4-door. Incredibly customizable, the Wrangler can ride through the forest with no top, windshield, or doors. That’s right! You can strip this beast done to the bare minimum to bring the wonder of nature inside the cabin. The two-door model offers 12.9 cubic feet of storage behind the back seats, and the four-door version provides 31.7 cubic feet. The maximum cargo space in the 2-door model is measured at 31.7 cubic feet, and in the 4-door model, it is about 72 cubic feet. You can access this expansion by folding down the back row of seating in either model.

As for powertrains, the standard engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that uses a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 8-speed automatic transmission. Generating 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, this powertrain has an EPA-estimated fuel economy set at 20 MPG combined (17 city/25 highway) with the manual transmission. It can also tow up to 3,500 pounds, which is quite impressive for a compact SUV. Please note that this powertrain can also be paired with the eTorque mild hybrid system for optimized rock crawling.

Next, we have the turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder motor mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Producing 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, this powertrain gets slightly better gas mileage at 23 MPG combined (22 city/24 highway). It can also be fitted with the eTorque mild hybrid system for the same off-roading enhancement. Lastly, the third powertrain is an EcoDiesel 3.0-liter V6 that produces 260 hp and 442 lb-ft of torque. With a maximum towing capacity set at 3,500 pounds, this powertrain has a fuel economy set at 25 MPG combined (22 city/29 highway).

Moving on to the trim levels, we kick things off with the base Sport level. This model features a USB port for charging your smartphone, an 8-speaker sound system, cruise control, and a rearview camera. Also included is an infotainment interface displayed on a 5-inch touchscreen. This system functions with Bluetooth for the ultimate entertainment experience. There are two additional sub-trims at the Sport level as well. The S sub-trim adds power accessories, air conditioning, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Furthermore, the Sport S sub-trim comes in three special edition models. First is the Black and Tan special edition. It adds side rails, all-terrain tires, and features from the Sahara trim. The second Sport S special edition is the Willys. This one comes with upgraded brakes and heavy-duty shock absorbers for optimized off-roading. Finally, the third special edition Sport S model is the Freedom, which features a soft-top, military graphics, and tinted windows. The Altitude sub-trim adds a rear windshield wiper, a removable hardtop, and a rear window defroster. Please note that the Sport Altitude sub-trim is only offered with the 4-door body style.

The second trim level just so happens to be the most popular. It’s the Sahara, and it is only available as a 4-door style vehicle. The most significant upgrade to this trim is in the infotainment system. Its upgrades include a larger 7-inch monitor, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Sahara is also available as a sub-trim called Altitude. This model adds leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped shift knob.

Lastly, the top-tier model is known as the Rubicon. It builds off the Sahara trim and adds a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and an Alpine stereo with 9 speakers. The leather seats are also heated at this level.

2020 Jeep Gladiator

If you want something all-new and exciting, then you’ll love the 2020 Jeep Gladiator truck. That’s right! Jeep has released a truck that is perfect for all of your adventure needs. This off-roading model offers exceptional performance and loads of cool features. It has already been named the 2020 North American Truck of the Year, and it has been listed on Ward’s top 10 list for the best interiors.

With available seating for five people, this mid-size truck is built with a 5-ft bed and comes in four trims. The design was based on the legendary Wrangler, and that is very clear just by looking at the Gladiator.

Under the hood, you will find a 3.6-liter V6 engine mated with a 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 8-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain produces 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and it comes equipped with a 4WD system for enhanced off-roading. If you opt for the Max Tow Package, the towing capacity will be capped at 7,650 pounds. The maximum payload is capped at 1,700 pounds. Equipped with protective underbody skid plates, heavy-duty Dana 44 axles, and tow hooks, you can do just about anything in this beast. You can conquer all sorts of terrain, including the desert.

The Gladiator features 11.1-inches of ground clearance for traveling over rocks and a water-sealed engine compartment for traversing through streams up to 30-inches deep. Taking things a step further, the Gladiator comes with front and back lock differentials, the Rock-Track 4x4 drivetrain system, FoxShocks, and rock rails. All of these features help with safely climbing over jagged rocks with no difficulty.

You can choose between four trim levels starting with the base Sport. This model features manual accessories, removable doors, a foldable windshield, and a removable soft top just like the Wrangler. A voice-activated infotainment system is also included as well as a 5-inch interface, an 8-speaker sound system, and Bluetooth connectivity.

The second trim is the Sport S, which is a sub-trim on the Wrangler. It adds power accessories, automatic climate control, satellite radio, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a 7-inch touchscreen, and compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Next, the mid-level Overland model adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 110-volt power outlet, and the option to upgrade to leather upholstery.

Lastly, the top-of-the-line Rubicon comes with all of those aforementioned off-roading performance features plus leather upholstery. If you want to spice things up, you can opt for black leather seating with contrasting red stitching.

Stand-alone options available on most trims include a three-piece hardtop, a detachable Bluetooth speaker, a 9-channel 552-watt amp, a subwoofer, and an auxiliary switch group that enables you to plug in up to four electrical accessories.

2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is the largest Jeep model within the family lineup, and it is undoubtedly the most diverse. And the diversity starts right off the bat when you browse through the plethora of trims this model offers. The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers up an array of configurations, both trims and special editions, which include the Laredo E, Upland, Altitude, North Editions, Limited, Limited X, Trailhawk, Overland, High Altitude, Summit, SRT, and Trackhawk. With all of these configurations, the Grand Cherokee can be built to be anything you need it to be.

Speaking of options and configurations, there are quite a few engine choices in the Jeep Grand Cherokee as well. This midsize SUV starts with a robust 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 295 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque with the assistance of rear-wheel drive and an agile 8-speed automatic transmission. This base model powertrain can also be upgraded to include all-wheel drive, which adds to the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s versatility. And on the subject of versatility, the Jeep Grand Cherokee already starts with some ground clearance, measuring in at 8.6 inches, and things only improve from there.

If you move up the extensive ladder of trims, you’ll find a beefy 5.7-liter V8. This eight-cylinder engine supports 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque with the remarkable ability to haul 7,200 pounds behind its rear tailgate. Things continue climbing from this point on, as the SRT trim comes packed with a 475 hp, 6.4-liter V8 engine that has the capability to launch the Grand Cherokee from 0 to 60 mph in all of five seconds. The last engine option, found on the Trailhawk trim, which is the superior choice in terms of power, is a 6.2-liter V8 engine that pumps out 707 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. And this strong engine propels the Jeep Grand Cherokee to 60 in 3.5 seconds.

The Trailhawk trim is also a key standout as it brings off-road capability to the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup. This version of the midsize Jeep SUV gets a standard four-wheel drivetrain, a 50/50 power split and locking center differential, hill-descent control, and a low-speed transfer case. The result is a Jeep Grand Cherokee that can hold its own with rugged juggernauts like the Jeep Wrangler. As can be expected, fuel economy is somewhat scattered in the Jeep Grand Cherokee as there are different ratings for each powertrain configuration, that said base models get 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

In total, the Jeep Grand Cherokee supports enough room for up to five passengers and gives each of those rear passengers 38.6 inches of legroom. Cargo capacity tops out at 63 cu.ft. of cargo space, and in base models, you can expect basic cloth and soft-touch plastics. Although, if you upgrade to the Summit and higher trims, you’ll find top-tier leather and genuine wood and metal accents.

Infotainment and onboard technology are solid, even at baseline models. The Laredo model, for instance, gets a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, as well as a pair of USB charging ports and power features. Higher trims only advance on what’s offered in terms of interior amenities. For example, the Limited trim adds in a bigger 8.4-inch infotainment touchscreen, remote start, a sunroof, heated power-adjustable seats, and a 115-volt outlet. Top tier Summit and Overland trims top out by providing drivers with premium interior materials as well as the full package of safety features.

Speaking of safety features, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is a clear standout both within the Jeep model family and beyond. Base models start pretty strong with automatic emergency braking, active lane control, and automatic high-beam headlights all available in entry-level Laredo models. As a result, drivers who want to take this powerful, rugged SUV off-roading do not have to worry about staying safe. This vehicle truly offers everything.

2020 Jeep Cherokee

The 2020 Jeep Cherokee is the little brother of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, but just because its smaller doesn’t mean it offers any less value. This is a compact SUV that has a rather affordable starting price of $26,085. Trims and special editions in the Jeep Cherokee are incredibly diverse, offering drivers the option to choose between the Latitude, Latitude Plus, Altitude, Latitude Lux, Upland, North Edition, Limited, Trailhawk, High Altitude, and Trailhawk Elite. So, just like all other Jeep vehicles, when you purchase a Jeep Cherokee, you’ll have plenty of different configurations to take advantage of.

Performance in the Jeep Cherokee starts small but gets pretty impressive as you move up the trim option pyramid. The base model is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-4 engine that makes 180 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque. This baseline powertrain comes standard with front-wheel drive, and a 9-speed automatic transmission, which combined makes for a rather nimble driving experience. All-wheel drive is, of course, optional, allowing drivers to really take advantage of the 8.6 inches of total ground clearance.

When you upgrade the Jeep Cherokee, you’ll find a 3.2-liter V6 engine that makes 271 hp and 239 lb-ft of torque. This bigger engine can tow up to 4,500 pounds, which is a significant upgrade from the standard towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine is also available, and it offers up to 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. This turbocharged engine can tow up to 4,000 pounds, and pairs nicely with that all-wheel drivetrain.

And if you want to take your Cherokee off of the pavement, the Trailhawk model adds in plenty of trail-ready gear. When you purchase the 2020 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk, you’ll find a set of durable off-road tires, a higher stance, a lockable rear differential, and so much more. And fuel economy in the Jeep Cherokee is pretty varied, but the base model can earn 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway.

Step inside the Jeep Cherokee, and you’ll find enough room for five and up to 40.3 inches of legroom for rear seat passengers. Cargo space sits at a top-end peak of 54.7 cu.ft when you fold the rear seats. Cloth and basic plastic come first in the interior materials, but if you want something better, you can upgrade to genuine leather upholstery.

The infotainment screen of base model Cherokees comes in the form of a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen that comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This infotainment screen is partnered by Bluetooth connectivity and the option to add more USB charging ports, satellite radio functionality, and a power-operated driver’s seat. When you upgrade your Jeep Cherokee, you’ll find even more in the way of onboard technology. That 7-inch infotainment screen can expand to 8.4 inches in total, and some trims even add in power-folding mirrors and temperature-controlled seating.

Active safety equipment in the Jeep Cherokee is pretty diverse as well. While base models offer some pretty standard equipment, you can upgrade any trim to include a slew of active safety features. Some of these top-level safety features include lane-departure warnings with active lane control, forward-collision warnings with automatic emergency braking, and rain-sensing wipers. This safety equipment, combined with all of the other features and excellent performance, rounds this vehicle out to be a great choice for many drivers.

OC Motorsports

Orange Coast is not your typical run-of-the-mill dealership. We’re passionate about performance, as demonstrated by our OC MotorSports department. If you want to build an impressive off-road vehicle that’s capable of tackling the toughest terrains and most abrasive conditions, our experienced team of auto enthusiasts would be delighted to make your dream come true. We maintain an extensive inventory of top-quality parts and products. Our staff has the knowledge, drive, and attention to detail that’s required to build your masterpiece.

Check out our latest creations on our OC Motorsports Youtube Channel, where we showcase what goes on behind the scenes of our featured builds. Cheer on our OC Trail Team as we take on some of the most challenging routes that California has to offer. When you buy a vehicle from Orange Coast, you can rest assured that you’re in good hands with true car people.

Jeep Accessories

You’ve probably heard that Jeeps are some of the most customized vehicles on the planet, but if you’re new to the Jeep scene, it might be hard to imagine what you can do to your vehicle to make it even cooler. There are, in fact, plenty of parts and accessories that can enhance your vehicle’s performance, upgrade safety and protection from the elements, and even options that will just make your Jeep feel like yours.

For example, consider the interior of your Jeep. Sure, you expect the outside to get muddy and wet, but do you want the same for the inside? Consider adding all-weather seat covers and floor mats that can resist the effects of water, dirt, and mud. This way, you won't have to ruin your fun outdoors-days by worrying about how you will keep the inside of your car clean.

What about peace of mind? While you may want to save your Wrangler specifically for off-roading fun, sometimes you need it to just get you from one place to another. In those cases, tube door kits are an excellent compromise between doorless driving and keeping passengers secure within your Jeep. These are also known on the market as “Safari door kits,” and feature either bars or webbing that fits over the door spaces of the Wrangler. The result? Hair in the air without worrying about losing smaller passengers over hard turns or big bumps.

Another example of an excellent accessory is an exhaust snorkel. This ensures that mud-running is never canceled due to super-wet conditions. This Jeep accessory keeps the exhaust system from getting clogged or saturated by moving the tailpipe to the very top, where it acts just like an underwater snorkel.

But no matter what, whether you are trying to keep your Jeep clean, safe, fun, or all of the above, you can. With the different accessories offered, it is more than possible to customize your Jeep to suit your needs. Nothing is impossible with Jeep.

Famous Jeep Models

Since the very beginning, Jeeps have gained notoriety for their rugged capabilities and go-anywhere attitude. Over the years, this has resulted in a few Jeeps earning a hall of fame placement amongst American vehicles.

Take, for example, the Willys MB. As the original Jeep model, this vehicle was created to serve on the front lines of battle. This vehicle was so significant to the American troops that it has been fully commemorated by military and civilians alike. In fact, one Willys MB was awarded a Purple Heart for its service. U.S. Secretary of State and Army Chief of Staff during WWII, General George C. Marshall, has famously stated that the MB was “America’s greatest contribution to modern warfare.” As the 4x4 vehicle that has influenced generations of off-road vehicles since the military Jeep 4x4 is even displayed in the Museum of Modern Art in New York, demonstrating the blending of art and machine through purpose.

While it may seem that any Jeep would pale in comparison to this mighty ancestor, the brand has impressed with constant innovations over the years. For example, the 2007 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JK took the New York Auto Show by storm as the only four-door off-road capable convertible in production. While this may seem like an ordinary feat, consider that this created a vehicle that managed to step into the sweet spot between “family SUV,” “fun-off roader,” and “daily driver,” creating its own segment as an incredibly adaptable and capable vehicle.

Perhaps the most recognizable Jeep is the CJ-5. Produced for almost 30 years, this is the image that appears as the textbook definition of “The Jeep.” Hitting the roads in 1955, the CJ-5 underwent several facelifts, re-engineers, and has hosted a full spectrum of engine options. Featuring a small, open body, and sitting tall on an off-road capable chassis, CJ body types were coveted until the Wrangler’s introduction in 1986. Many classic Jeep fans still keep their eyes peeled for CJ-5s looking for a new home. And even more Jeep fans keep their eyes peeled for the future Jeep innovations that may change the world.

Jeep History

The history of Jeep cannot be told without the CJ models. During World War II, the famous Willys MB reported for duty without fail. With peacetime, the MB was no longer required on the front line, which meant retirement for these faithful vehicles, as people struggled to find another use for them. In fact, Popular Science magazine sponsored a contest for “Ideas on Peacetime Jobs for Jeeps,” with cash prizes awarded for particularly inventive proposals.

The first logical home for a rugged vehicle like a Jeep was the farm. After all, a CJ, or “Civilian Jeep” was meant for crawling across uneven land for ten hours a day. The CJ-2A became an instant hit as “A Powerhouse on Wheels,” with optional farm tools created to enhance the vehicle’s capability. This promise was backed by a more family-friendly version of the MB, which included improved shock absorption and more comfortable seats, along with highway driving speed capability, windshield wiper, and a tailgate, among other features.

In 1946, Jeep unveiled to the public an all-steel station wagon, known as the Model 463. With the wood panel appearance that was popular at the time, this station wagon was special. Not only was the steel construction a breeze for regular maintenance, but it included a fold-down tailgate that has since become an American tradition. Dubbed “The Willy Station Wagon,” this vehicle could carry anything and everything, and in 1949, received its four-wheel drive “wings.” Later, the popularity of a family vehicle that could do triple duty as a workhorse and an off-road adventurer would inspire the design of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. This modern tradition blends the spirit of family fun with the utility of a vehicle that can tow and stow and crawl all at once.

It may be surprising to learn that even the brand new Gladiator pickup truck has its roots in early Jeep history. Four-wheel drive Jeep Brand Trucks were available in the late 1940s. For perspective, Chevy’s first four-wheel drive truck debuted in 1957, while Ford followed shortly in 1959. While the Gladiator was born in the 1960s, these early trucks featured a 118-inch wheelbase, and in both two and four-wheel drive iterations, took the nation by storm for years. Much of the DNA of these early trucks can be seen in the 2019 Gladiator, as well.

Orange Coast of Costa Mesa, CA

Costa Mesa, California, is an ideal Jeep territory. Located just a stone’s throw from the Pacific Ocean, it’s hot, dry summers, and mild winters are perfect for an open-air Jeep excursion.

Cruising up and down Highway 1 with all the doors and windows off is definitely in the cards for every Jeep owner in Orange County, but there’s also plenty of wilderness to explore in Southern California. The Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve is adjacent to East Side Costa Mesa, and a road trip in any direction will take you to deserts, mountains, or forests, depending on your preferences.

Head north to the San Bernardino National Forest or the Angeles National Forest for a long weekend of hiking, camping, and exploring the various peaks and lakes via foot trail or Jeep. Head east to pass through Mt. San Jacinto State Park on the way to Joshua Tree National Park, and watch the changing scenery as it displays the many faces of California’s natural wonders.

True adventurers can head west to the Channel Islands- though you’ll have to leave the Jeep on dry land for that journey. Channel Islands National Park is only accessible by boat or airplane, but public transportation is readily available. Besides those islands, though, a Jeep can take you anywhere around Costa Mesa, you need to go - and it will always be an enjoyable drive.

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