Jeep has finally released the specs everyone was waiting for
With the all-new 2018 Wrangler debuting at the Los Angeles Auto Show today, Jeep has finally released the specs enthusiasts have long been waiting for.
The good news is the latest generation of the legendary off-roader is up to 200 lb (91 kg) lighter than its predecessor. And the weight loss is accompanied by a more rigid chassis thanks to the ladder frame chassis, the upgraded suspension, and the new aluminum body panels.
As everyone correctly anticipated, the 2018 Wrangler will debut with the Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine rated at 285 hp and 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque. The unit comes with a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an optional eight-speed automatic, with the manual allow for fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. If the automatic transmission is selected, the mileage is 18 mpg city/23 mpg highway.
All-new for the Wrangler is the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine that makes 268 hp and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque – not 368 hp as it was written in the leaked order owner's manual and user guide. The powertrain comes in a mild-hybrid configuration consisting of a 48-volt battery and belt starter-generator. No fuel economy figures are available for this engine, but common sense says it should be more efficient than the V6.
Finally, Jeep will also add a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel to the range later on.
Regardless of the engine choice, the Wrangler comes fitted as standard with a selectable transfer case that has two- or four-wheel drive modes. New for 2018 is the option of a "4Auto" automatic mode on the Sahara trim level. The new model also gets upgraded Dana axles too — of the Dana 44 type on the rugged Rubicon grade.
As for body styles, the 2018 Wrangler comes in two- and four-door configurations, each offering a choice of hardtop, convertible top, and powered soft top. A pickup will follow later on.
The two-door Wrangler is available in Sport, Sport S, and Rubicon trim levels, while the Wrangler Unlimited offers Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon versions.
When it comes to the interior, the Wrangler JL features the UConnect infotainment system with 5-, 7-, and 8.4-inch touchscreen displays depending on the trim level. All of them offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a WiFi hotspot, two USB ports, and two 12V accessory ports.
[Photo:66162]Sales of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler will begin in January, with pricing to be announced closer to that date.Story references: Jeep via Carscoops