8 things to look for in the new Jeep Wrangler


There may be a new engine, a pickup and even a diesel

Mike Manley, the head of Jeep, recently sat down to talk to Automotive News about the Wrangler, which is scheduled to get a reboot for 2018. Here is a list of what is to look for in the off-road vehicle.




Photo: Jeep grille and headlamps


1. You'll recognize it as a Jeep
Manley told Automotive News he has one clear mission and that is, “Don’t screw it up.” The basic visual elements of the Wrangler have stayed pretty consistent over 75 years, and Jeep knows it can't afford to screw it up.

Photo: Jeep Wrangler manual transmission


2. Manual is still an option
Currently, we have a long-term 2016 Jeep Wrangler in our fleet. We ordered it with a stick and when it arrived at the office with an automatic, we sent it back. We think--and some disagree--that manual transmissions on a Jeep are simply more fun, on and off road.

Photo: Automatic transmission


3. New Automatic
The Wrangler will be available with an eight-speed automatic transmission and gain an updated version of the Pentastar V6.

Photo: Jeep Wrangler Rubicon

4. Looking to lose some weight
Steel will makeup the frame of the Wrangler, but back in 2015 Manley said Jeep is considering using aluminum for the Wrangler’s new bodywork, carbon fiber could also be an unlikely option.

Photo: Jeep Wrangler Sport


5. Possible I4 engine
Jeep gave Automotive News information about a new 300-hp turbocharged I4 in May. With a four-cylinder under the hood, the fuel economy would likely improve.


Photo: Wrangler goes green


6. Wrangler could go green
In 2015, Jeep suggested that the 2018 Wrangler could get a plug-in hybrid option. Manley said installing an electric motor would be a good idea since it provides immediate torque for climbing rocks and other 
 obstacles. 


Photo: Jeep pickup


7. Wrangler pickup
Jeep has teased the concept of a Wrangler pickup for years. Manley expressed in 2011 that it was not the right time for a pickup, but perhaps maybe at a later refresh. Now would be the time. Jeep fans are waiting.


Photo: 2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel engine


8. Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel
FCA has seen the benefits of diesel in its Ram pickups, and Jeep enthusiasts would likely line up for more torque and fuel efficiency, we know we would.

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