2018 Jeep Wrangler breaks cover before the LA auto show

Words by Shubham Choukse

Jeep has finally unveiled the much anticipated 2018 Wrangler just before the commencement of Los Angeles auto show. The Wrangler is the most iconic model from the legendary automobile manufacturer and has been popular among the off-roading community since its inception in 1986. The new Wrangler 2-door model is available in three different trim configurations: Sport, Sport S and Rubicon. While the new Wrangler 4-door models are available in four different trim configurations: Sport, Sport S, Sahara and Rubicon.

The new Wrangler features minor but noticeable cosmetic updates over the previous generation model. It gets include new LED headlamps, new bumpers and an air pocket behind the front wheel arch on either side. The iconic radiator grille is now at a more upright angle than before. While other iconic Jeep elements such as the exposed door hinges, round headlamps, square tail lamps and the iconic boxy design language still continues. Besides the updates mentioned above the Rubicon model also gets new vents on the bonnet, retaining the folding windshield and removable roof and doors.

The new Wrangler gets a completely redesigned dashboard. It gets the fourth-generation Uconnect infotainment system which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and the choice of 5, 7 or 8.4-inch touchscreens with pinch-and-zoom capability.

The 2018 Wrangler will be available with four powertrain options. The 3.6-litre naturally aspirated V6 petrol will be carried over as it is, also the grand Cherokee’s 3-litre V6 diesel will also make its way in the new Wrangler. On the other hand, two new options include a new 2-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo-petrol motor that pumps out 281bhp and 352Nm of torque and a new 2.2-litre, 4-cylinder, turbo-diesel churning out 194bhp of power and 450Nm of torque (to be introduced at a later stage). At launch, it will be offered with only one automatic gearbox option in the USA. Jeep’s standard off-road equipment including Dana axles, full-time two-speed transfer case, electric front and rear-axle lockers, limited-slip differential, 33-inch off-road tires, skid plates and mechanicals have been retained in the new Wrangler. The new Wrangler has an approach angle of 44 degrees, breakover angle of 27.8 degrees, departure angle of 37 degrees and ground clearance of 10.9-inches which makes  it capable of doing water fording for upto 30-inches. Also it has a towing capacity of up to 1580 kg.

“Jeep has always represented the ultimate in capability and open-air freedom, and our all-new 2018 Wrangler protects that important legacy and takes it into the future,” said Mike Manley, Head, Jeep, FCA Global. “The all-new Wrangler is instantly recognizable as a Jeep, staying true to the original, yet it is better in every way – delivering even more rugged capability, more ride comfort, more fuel efficiency courtesy of several advanced powertrain options, more interior comfort, more safety and more technology,” he added.

The new Wrangler will be available in the North American markets from January 2018. We are sure about the Renegade making its way here next year. We hope that FCA brings the updated Wrangler to India as well.