America’s most loved off-road vehicle is back again with an impressive ability to handle almost any terrain. Explore how the 2018 Jeep Wrangler is sure to please enthusiasts in a variety of ways.
Performance Specs
The newly updated V6 Wrangler produces 285 horsepower with 260 lb.-ft. of torque. You have the option to combine this with the standard six-speed manual transmission or the eight-speed automatic transmission. In addition, you’ll find the new turbocharged four-cylinder which produces 270 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. This puts the V6 to shame slightly.
This new engine uses a 48-volt mild hybrid system which utilizes start/stop operation, regenerative braking, and also power retention. The eTorque system functions with the use of an electric motor that sends power to the crankshaft. You’ll find this where the alternator used to be and it works seamlessly with the battery pack found underneath the Jeep.
If you are looking for the highest end of torque available, you’ll want to look into the beastly 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 engine being offered in 2019. It is available to pair with any four-door model and boasts 260 horsepower with 442 lb.-ft. of torque. In addition, there will be a plug-in hybrid option available starting in 2020.
Fuel Efficiency
One of the main purposes of the new Wrangler line was to improve overall fuel efficiency. In performance tests, the Wrangler Unlimited paired with the V6 and automatic transmission rated 18 mpg in the city with 23 mpg on the highway and a 20 mpg combined total. This is two mpg better than the current version has. If you pair the V6 engine with a manual transmission, you can expect that number to drop slightly to 19 mpg combined.
Other configurations of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler haven’t been tested yet, but we are hopeful that there is an improvement in each of them as well. Part of the reason that Jeep was able to boost the overall efficiency was due to the continued work on the vehicle’s aerodynamics. While maintaining the iconic styling features of the Wrangler, Jeep was able to lower the overall weight by another two hundred pounds. Half of this weight came from the frame while the other half was found on aluminum body pieces.
The authentic Wrangler style will remain despite upgrades. You’ll still notice the unmistakable shape, seven-slot grille, removable top and doors, as well as the iconic round headlights and square taillights. You can also opt for the available body-color Freedom Top hardtop option on the Sahara and Rubicon models. As far as the pickup model goes, it will be a four-door featuring a longer cargo area.
Safety and Entertainment Features
There are many advanced safety features offered on the higher-trim models. These include rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, roll mitigation, plus a rearview camera that offers dynamic guidelines. In 2018, there will not be a forward-collision warning or automatic emergency braking. The Wrangler JK comes standard with the hill start assist feature, available hill descent control, and the standard tire pressure monitoring system.
Inside the cabin, you and your passengers are treated to some upgraded technology features. At the center of focus is the newest Uconnect system which comes with either the 7 or 8.4-inch screen. Included with that are the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability. If the sound is important to you, take note of the new, available nine-speaker Alpine All-Weather Premium Sound System which includes four 6.5-inch speakers, four tweeters, and a subwoofer.
Comfort is the main focus when you look inside the 2018 Jeep Wrangler. It features bucket seats, adjustable bolsters and lumbar support as well as upgraded lights throughout. There is also ample storage space and well-planned ergonomics throughout. Jeep offers available heated front seats as well as an auto-dimming rearview mirror and integrated LED map lights.
Other Notable Features
As with previous models, the 2018 Jeep Wrangler features the five-link coil suspension. On top of that, Jeep claims to have tuned the on and off-road balance needs to be more superior. There are four skid plates which work to protect the fuel tank, the transfer case, and automatic transmission from damage.
The Wrangler Rubicon added steel rock rails to this year’s lineup to help protect the body from damage. When taken off-road you can expect it to handle a 44-degree approach angle, a 37-degree departure angle, as well as offering a 10.9-inch ground clearance. With 33-inch tires and up to 30 inches of fording depth, you can expect to take this beast almost anywhere. It also features a 3,500-lb. maximum towing capacity. The Rubicon also features steel bumpers, leather-trimmed seats, and a military-inspired Dana 44 Front axle.
How it Stacks up against the Competition
The Jeep Wrangler has had few competitors when it comes to the off-road ability, but on the road is a different story. In road tests, it has been noted that is has a shaky ride and bulky handling. You are also going to notice a good amount of wind noise in comparison to other comparable vehicles.
If you are more concerned with a smooth road ride, you might be better off looking at the 2018 Toyota 4-Runner or 2018 Nissan Xterra. Keep in mind that the Wrangler does feature a unique and iconic image that can’t be compared to another vehicle. Despite the negative feedback about the on-road handling, the Jeep Wrangler still scores high on owner satisfaction surveys and remains a customer favorite.
Pros:
- Improved fuel economy
- Powerful, new turbo-charged 4-cylinder engine
- New advanced safety features
- Features newest Uconnect system
- Upgraded off-road capability
Cons:
- Shaky on-road ride
- Bulky handling
Conclusion
The two-door Wrangler models will be offered in the Sport, Sport S, and Rubicon trim. The four-door Wrangler models also add the Sahara option to the mix. In total, you’ll be able to find 8 Jeep Wrangler JK models to choose from. When you pair the conveniences being offered, the smooth ride, plus all the safety features, it’s easy to justify the $23,995 MSRP. You can expect to find the new Wrangler options in showrooms starting in January 2018, but expect a large demand from Jeep enthusiasts everywhere.