The current Jeep Wrangler was introduced back in 2007, and the first changes to the interior followed five years later, whereas in 2013 a new powertrain was introduced. This SUV has been one of the most popular and iconic vehicles in the US, and it is no wonder that the sales have been high throughout the years. Last year, the 202,000 units were sold and ever since 2011 the sales have been going up.
Things are changing quickly, and Jeep is facing a great challenge. They need to produce a new Wrangler, which will contain its authentic look, but which will also offer more comfort and better technology. Some of the information is confirmed, but there is a lot of rumors. Let’s see what to expect from the 2018 Jeep Wrangler.
Exterior Details
There is no doubt that the seven-slot grill will be kept on a new model, but it will probably be more aerodynamic. What will also remain the same is the front glass, but just like the grille, the aerodynamics will be improved for better fuel economy. Reports suggest that the windshield will not be foldable which represents a big change over the original. The revised front bumper is also expected to come, and the gap between the bumper and fenders is going to be filled.
The taillights will resemble the ones from Renegade meaning they will have the X-shape. The plastic rear bumper will find its way to the 2018 Jeep Wrangler and the same goes for a tow hook. Moreover, the spare tire will be located on the tailgate, glad to see that some iconic features will stay. According to Allpar, this SUV will no longer feature a removable hard top or canvas soft top. Instead, the non-removable roof structure will be used on which the roll-over protection will be added. Hoops will be formed out of the B and C pillars. The bracing will be between them, and the windshield will be connected to both B and C pillar.
However, the new model will have removable panels on the top and sides, which means that the American carmaker won’t abandon the open top option completely. These panels will be located between the pillars and hopefully with this, the doors will remain removable.
According to some rumors, a power soft top, a true three-piece hardtop and a hardtop glass panel will be featured on the JL. A power soft top would probably be great for modern Wrangler aficionados, whereas it would definitely disappoint some of the hardcore fans. The hardtop glass panel is basically a large sunroof, and it should be offered as a premium option. The three-piece hardtop we are not sure about. It might be something like a Freedom Top, but these are all just rumors, so we will not try to guess much.
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Jeep Wrangler Interior
Little is known about the interior of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler. However, there will be some new features for sure, whereas the interior will look rough and it will be easily washable. Rumor has it that the rotary shift knob for the ZF eight-speed automatic is included.
It is expected that the base trim will be equipped with the 5.0-inch Uconnect infotainment system, whereas the FCA’s 8.4-inch Uconnect system will also be available. It is a drastic improvement since we will be getting navigation, satellite radio and Bluetooth on the table. Tight-weave cloth seats will most likely be in the vehicle for easy cleaning. The leather seats will be offered for those who do not to plan to drive their Wrangler on heavy-duty off-road excursions.
Power Plant Expectations
There has been a lot of talk about the drivetrain, but not much is confirmed here. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 is the first and most likely engine option that may be improved to offer 300 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. The unit will be paired with ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox, which will enhance fuel efficiency. Another transmission option likely to return is a six-speed manual.
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The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 is supposed to be the premium powerplant option. This engine should deliver 240 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. The manual transmission is uncertain here, but the ZF eight-speed will be combined with this unit, no doubt.
There is also a theory according to which, a turbocharged four-cylinder will be offered in the 2018 Jeep Wrangler. This unit is good for about 300 hp, whereas both automatic and manual transmissions would be available. The first one is ZF 850RE eight-speed.
It appears that the new Wrangler will stick to a solid front and rear axles, instead of using a four-wheel independent suspension. Fantastic news for the fans is that Dana axles, multi-link and coil spring suspension system will be featured on the new car. The aftermarket will offer suspension upgrades if you consider that you need one.
2018 Jeep Wrangler Price Tag
We have already mentioned that the sales have been increasing in the last few years. If we add the fact that more equipment and tech options will come it is easy to conclude that even the base trim of the new Wrangler will cost slightly more than the entry-level of the current version. The starting price of the 2016 Wrangler is $23,895. This is a two-door model, without air conditioning and with a manual gearbox. The four-door Unlimited is available for $27,695. However, the top trim Rubicon Hard Rock is priced at $48,000 with all of the optional equipment.
Our best guess is that the 2018 Jeep Wrangler will start from up to $26,000 whereas the Unlimited model should be around $32,000. If you decide to upgrade your Wrangler completely, that should set you back more than $50,000.
Stay tuned for more info, especially about the release date.
