Jeep Wrangler plug-in hybrid confirmed for 2024 model year during the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show!
There have been tons of speculations and rumors over the last few years about the new Jeep Wrangler, and finally, it arrived in production metal at the 2017 LA Auto Show where the automaker had a quite interesting announcement to the public. Mike Manley, Jeep boss, revealed a plan of producing a plug-in hybrid of the beloved Wrangler for the 2024 model year!
Unfortunately, he didn’t share any specific details, however, we do know that a partially electrified Wrangler is in store for us. There is a possibility that the company wants to adapt the plug-in hybrid powertrain from the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid that runs on a 3.6-liter V6 gasoline engine connected to two electric motors and a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
On the other hand, it might be hard to pack all of that in a vehicle of this size. Therefore do not be surprised if the Wrangler PHEV comes to the scene with it its own setup. If that proves to be the case, the Wrangler will share many of the components with the Pacifica Hybrid as that is the recipe for many models from FCA due to the strategy to minimize development costs.
We still don’t know whether this model will be sold only in the US or it’s going to be available in other markets too.
Bear in mind that the regular 2018 Jeep Wrangler will be available with a mild hybrid setup that will feature a turbocharged inline-four 2.0-liter accompanied by a belt starter-generator and a 48-volt battery. The engine packs 268 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque, and it is paired exclusively with an automatic transmission.
For all of you who are interested in the fuel efficiency, know that a turbodiesel 3.0-liter V6 mill is in store and it will arrive ‘at a future model year.’ It comes with an estimated 30-mpg rating on the highway if we are to trust our colleagues at Motor Trend. We do not know yet if it will be introduced before or after the plug-in hybrid. However, it is nice to hear that Jeep is being flexible with their powertrains and that they will offer the customers more options to choose from.
