2018 Jeep Wrangler Balances Evolution and Revolution: Comments

[William Maley]

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The 2018 Jeep Wrangler has to be one of worst-kept secrets in new vehicle launches. Over the past months, we have learned numerous details about powertrains, the overall structure, features, and much more. Jeep finally spilled out the details about the 2018 Wrangler today the LA Auto Show.

The basic shape of the exterior remains the same, but Jeep designers have a number of changes to freshen it up. The front end comes with a new grille design, reshaped headlights, LED daytime running lights and turn signals on the fenders, and a new front bumper. The front windshield is much easier to fold down as it only takes four bolts remove - the previous-generation required an owner to remove 28 bolts. Around the back is a new lip spoiler to help with aerodynamics, larger rear window, and reshaped taillights.

Three tops will be available for the Wrangler,

• Hardtop comprised of lighter panels and simpler latches
• Softtop that uses latches instead of zippers and velcro to remove panels
• Powered softtop that is more like a giant sunroof

The interior keeps many of the Wrangler's traits such as the body color dash panels and passenger grab handle. But the controls become easier thanks to a revised layout and larger knobs and buttons. A new instrument cluster design features a color screen for trip computer - similar to what you'll find on other Jeeps. Three versions of FCA's UConnect system (5 to 8.4-inches) will be available. The Wrangler's interior comes with more storage spaces such as larger mesh pockets on the doors and a 50-percent larger center console.

There will be two engines on offer for the Wrangler at launch

• 3.6L V6 - 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque
• Turbocharged 2.0L Inline-Four - 268 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque

The V6 will offer the choice of a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. The four-cylinder makes do with the automatic only. The four-cylinder also boasts a mild-hybrid system comprised of a 48-volt battery and belt starter-generator. Jeep says this setup improves low-speed acceleration and the stop-start system.

A 3.0L turbodiesel V6 is expected to arrive sometime later. No power specs were given for the diesel engine. Jeep CEO Mike Manley announced at the press conference that a plug-in hybrid will be launched in 2020.

The Wrangler will come in 2WD or 4WD. Opt for a 4WD and you'll have the choice of two systems; CommandTrac or RocTrac. Sahara models come with a special transfer case featuring a 4Auto mode for those who daily drive their Wrangler through the rain and snow. 

The Wrangler off-road capabilities are impressive,

• Ford water up to 30 inches
• Approach angle of 44 degrees
• Departure angle of 37 degrees
• Breakover angle of 27.8 degrees

Jeep engineers were able to cut about 200 pounds from the Wrangler. Part of the loss can be attributed to the new frame design that incorporates more high-strength steel. The other part comes from many of the body panels being made out of aluminum.

The Wrangler hits dealerships in the first quarter of 2018.

Source: Jeep
Press Release is on Page 2

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All-new 2018 Jeep® Wrangler: The Most Capable SUV Ever

• Even More Legendary Jeep 4x4 Capability, a Modern Design That Stays True to the Original, Advanced Fuel-efficient Powertrains, More Open-air Options and Loaded With Safety Features and Advanced Technology
• Unmatched capability with Command-Trac and Rock-Trac 4x4 systems, next-generation Dana axles, new Selec-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case, Tru-Lock electric front- and rear-axle lockers, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential and 33-inch off-road tires 
  • Industry-leading ground clearance and approach, breakover and departure angles
  • Unmatched crawl ratios
  • Up to 30 inches of water fording
• A modern design that stays true to the original
  • Instantly recognizable keystone-shaped grille pays homage to Jeep® CJ models
  • Iconic round headlamps and square tail lamps provide distinctive Wrangler character
  • Rugged-yet-distinguished design boasts improved aerodynamics
  • Convenient fold-down windshield for off-road purists
  • More open-air freedom for the only true open-air 4x4 SUV with new easy-to-use Sky One-Touch powertop, two hardtops and premium soft top
  • Dozens of different door, top and windshield combinations
• Lightweight, high-strength aluminum doors, hinges, hood, fenders, windshield frame, and magnesium swing gate help reduce weight and boost fuel economy
• Suspension tuned to optimize on-road handling and ride comfort without sacrificing off-road capability
• Advanced fuel-efficient powertrain menu:
  • All-new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with efficient eTorque technology
  • 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine with Engine Stop-Start (ESS)
  • Diesel power in response to overwhelming consumer demand: 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 with ESS coming in 2019
  • Two transmission offerings: new eight-speed automatic or six-speed manual
• Fourth-generation Uconnect system includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and the choice of 5.0, 7.0- or 8.4-inch touchscreens with pinch-and-zoom capability
• Packed with more than 75 available advanced safety and security features

November 29, 2017 , Los Angeles - The all-new 2018 Jeep® Wrangler – the most capable and recognized vehicle in the world – builds on its legendary history with an unmatched combination of off-road capability, authentic Jeep design, open-air freedom, advanced fuel-efficient powertrains, superior on- and off-road dynamics, and a host of innovative safety and advanced technology features.

“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 of Jeep Brand – 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.”
 
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler 2-door model is available in three different trim configurations: Sport, Sport S and Rubicon. Wrangler 4-door models are available in four different trim configurations: Sport, Sport S, Sahara and Rubicon.

Legendary go-anywhere 4x4 capability: Most capable SUV ever without compromise
The all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler delivers legendary off-road capability courtesy of two advanced 4x4 systems, and for the first time in Wrangler’s history, a two-speed transfer case with full-time four-wheel drive and a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio that is available on Sahara models. This new Selec-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case is intuitive and allows the driver to set it and forget it, while constantly sending power to the front and rear wheels.
 
The Command-Trac 4x4 system features a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, and next-generation solid Dana front and rear axles with a 3.45 rear axle ratio.
 
On Wrangler Rubicon, a Rock-Trac 4x4 system features heavy duty next-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles with a “4LO” ratio of 4:1. A 4.10 front and rear axle ratio is standard as are Tru-Lok locking differentials.
 
Wrangler Rubicon models offer improved articulation and total suspension travel versus the previous generation with help from an electronic sway-bar disconnect. With the standard six-speed manual transmission, Wrangler Rubicon has an impressive and improved crawl ratio of 84.2:1, and 77.2:1 on Rubicon models equipped with the new eight-speed automatic transmission – both of which makes scaling any obstacle on the trail easy.
 
Both Command-Trac and Rock-Trac systems offer full-time torque management, enabling optimal grip in low-traction conditions.
 
An available Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential provides extra torque and grip during slippery, low-traction situations, such as driving over sand, gravel, snow or ice.
 
Every Wrangler model receives a Trail Rated badge thanks to legendary 4x4 capability that includes features such as:

• Command-Trac 4x4 system with 2.72:1 crawl ratio standard on Sport and Sahara models
• Rock-Trac 4x4 system with a “4LO” ratio of 4:1 and Tru-Lok locking differentials standard on Rubicon models
• Skid plates and front and rear tow hooks
• All-new front fascia and available front and rear steel heavy-duty off-road winch-ready bumpers with removable end caps
• Industry-leading approach angle of 44 degrees, breakover angle of 27.8 degrees, departure angle of 37 degrees and ground clearance of 10.9 inches
• Aggressive available 17-inch off-road wheels; Rubicon models get 33-inch tires standard
• Up to 30 inches of water fording
• Up to 3,500-lb. towing capacity

Modern take on authentic Jeep Wrangler design
The all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler builds on a sculptural design aesthetic that is immediately recognizable with its traditional Jeep design cues. Wrangler’s new exterior design is bold and rugged with a wide stance and lowered beltline with larger windows for better outward visibility, especially out on the trails.

The Jeep design team gave the legendary seven-slot grille an updated look that now shows both of the outer grille slats intersecting with the headlights, paying homage to the Jeep CJ. The top of the keystone-shaped grille has been gently swept back for improved aerodynamics.
 
On Sahara and Rubicon models, available LED headlamps and fog lamps offer crisp white lighting and add to the Wrangler’s distinctive look. These models feature daytime running lights that now form a halo around the outside perimeter of the headlights, and standard LED forward turn signals are positioned on the front of the trapezoidal wheel flares. From behind, traditional square tail lamps feature available LED lighting.
 
Dozens of different door, top and windshield combinations allow for endless configuration possibilities. A new half-door design will be available starting in 2019.
 
The windshield’s rake has been optimized for improved aerodynamics and features a new four bolt design at the top of the windshield’s frame to allow the windshield to fold down quickly and easily. A new header bar now connects the A-pillars and stays in place even when the windshield is folded down. This allows the rearview mirror to remain in place even with the windshield folded.
 
Two-piece body-color fender flares with a black lower insert give a raised profile and are standard on Sahara and available on Rubicon models.
 
New lightweight, high-strength aluminum doors now feature the Torx bit tool size stamped directly onto the hinge to eliminate guessing which tool size is needed to remove the doors.
 
New for 2018, all Wranglers feature body-colored sport bars, which are welded to the body and feature integrated grab handles.
 
As the only true open-air 4x4 SUV on the market, an all-new easy-to-use Sky One-Touch powertop strengthens Wrangler’s promise of utility and adventure by allowing occupants to retract the full-length open canvas roof with a push of a button (available in the second quarter of 2018).
 
An all-new premium Sunrider soft top provides another easy open-air option and has been improved by adding two additional bows to manage the fabric. This new design helps to quiet wind noise and allows for easier access to partial and full open top positions. New for 2018, the soft top features retainers that slide into a track for easier rear passenger window removal.
 
Wrangler Sahara and Rubicon models share a body-color hardtop option (black on Sport and Sport S), offering a unique, premium appearance while a black three-piece hardtop, available on all models, offers even more options for open-air driving. Lighter Freedom panels and improved latches enable a quicker removal and installation of the hardtop.
 
Authentic interior design boasts premium features and technology
The new 2018 Jeep Wrangler’s interior combines authentic styling, versatility, comfort and intuitive feature use. Precision craftsmanship and high-quality materials are found throughout the cabin.
 
The heritage-inspired center stack features a clean, sculpted form that complements the horizontal dashboard design and sports a finish dictated by the model choice. A hand-wrapped instrument panel features a soft-touch surface with accent stitching on Wrangler Sahara models. Functional features, including climate and volume control knobs, media charging and connectivity ports and Engine Stop Start (ESS) control are all sculpted for quick recognition and are easily within reach of the front-seat occupants. Inboard and outboard circular HVAC vents are surrounded by a platinum chrome bezel for a precise and premium yet rugged appearance with full functionality.
 
Jeep functionality and versatility are celebrated in the center console and distinguished with metal-plated accents. A redesigned center console houses the gear shift selection, transfer case and parking brake. Real bolts featured on the shifter, grab handles and frame the infotainment screen highlight genuine construction methods.
 
A push-button starter, featuring a weather-proof surround, makes its debut on the 2018 Wrangler and is easily located within the driver’s reach.
 
Cloth or leather-contoured seats feature accent stitching, and now feature adjustable bolster and lumbar support. Available comfort features include heated front seats and steering wheel.
 
The driver and front passenger vinyl-wrapped door trim panels are soft to the touch, and the arm rests have been lengthened for better comfort. New Lift-Assist handles under each door armrest feature an integrated pull-cup design that makes door removal quicker and easier than ever. Convenience features include passive entry with Keyless Go.
 
The instrument cluster features a 3.5- or an available 7-inch thin-film transistor (TFT) information LED display. The 7-inch LED display allows the driver to configure information in more than 100 ways including current media being played, tire pressure, or digital speed readout. Integrated buttons on the steering wheel control audio, voice, and speed functions and allow the driver to keep their hands on the wheel at all times.
 
A 7.0- or an available 8.4-inch touchscreen – the most advanced and largest display Uconnect system display ever offered on Wrangler – houses the fourth-generation Uconnect system and now sits prominently atop the center stack. The fourth-generation Uconnect system enhances the user interface and system performance with quicker start up times and improved screen resolution. A 5.0-inch touchscreen is standard on Wrangler Sport. Directly below the touchscreen are functional features such as climate and volume control knobs and media connectivity ports.
 
Two USB ports up front and two in reach of occupants in the back seat connect to the media center. Standard 12-volt accessory outlets are located throughout the all-new Wrangler and a 115-volt AC outlet is available to power select three-pronged home electronics.
 
Clever storage solutions are found throughout the 2018 Wrangler, including durable mesh pockets that extend the entire length of the doors and numerous phone storage areas. 
 
The available subwoofer is now located on the right side of the rear cargo area allowing for even more storage space. An under-floor storage area behind the rear seat provides room to secure small items out of sight. The glove box is now damped and like the center console, can be locked to safely secure valuables when the top is down. The available all-new Trail Rail cargo management system allows easy access to the contents in the cargo area and provides additional storage options to organize and secure cargo.
 
Proven body-on-frame design is the foundation for legendary Jeep capability
The 2018 Jeep Wrangler receives a multitude of improvements to optimize ride, handling and sound characteristics, while reducing weight and improving fuel economy. Utilizing a body-on-frame design, and featuring a superbly engineered five-link suspension system, Wrangler delivers even more capability, with improved on-road driving dynamics and passenger safety.
 
To protect critical vehicle components while on the trail – including the fuel tank, transfer case and automatic transmission oil pan – Wrangler employs four skid plates and bars. Rubicon models benefit from the use of heavy gauge tubular steel rock rails to curtail potential body damage inflicted while out on the trail.
 
The use of lightweight, high-strength aluminum closures, including the doors, door hinges, hood, fender flares, windshield frame and magnesium swing gate, help reduce weight and boost fuel economy. Other ways the Jeep engineering team looked to reduce weight included using hollow track and stabilizer bars, aluminum engine mounts and steering gear, and a larger, lighter master cylinder.
 
For 2018, Wrangler continues to utilize the proven five-link coil suspension configuration. Wrangler’s front suspension features a lateral control arm and four longitudinal control arms. Full-width track bars made of forged steel control lateral movement of the axle with minimal angle change during suspension travel. The roll center height has been raised and the spring rates have been retuned to provide a comfortable ride when traveling around town.
 
The five-link rear suspension features two upper and two lower forged steel control arms for longitudinal control, and a track bar for lateral axle control. The control arms are located outside of the frame rails while the rear shocks are splayed (angled inboard at the top) to provide consistent damping.
 
The shocks have been retuned and demonstrate optimum balance between on-road handling and legendary off-road capability. Ride comfort, body-roll control, and handling is significantly improved with new shock tuning, hard points, and body mount strategy.
 
On Wrangler Rubicon models, an electronic front sway-bar disconnect is featured to provide additional wheel travel when the terrain calls for it.
 
A best-in-class approach angle of 44 degrees, breakover angle of 27.8 degrees, departure angle of 37 degrees and a ground clearance of 10.9 inches allows Wrangler to go anywhere.
 
Wrangler also benefits from up to 30 inches of water fording and up to 3,500-lb. towing capacity with the available towing package.

Advanced fuel-efficient powertrains
The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 and all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engines join the Wrangler lineup, while the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is upgraded for 2018.
 
2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine
The all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine with eTorque technology is rated a best-in-class 270 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque and mated to a new eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder (I-4) engine’s torque output surpasses that of the V-6 engine offered in Wrangler. The all-new eTorque system improves fuel economy, launch performance, and driver comfort during start/stop operations.
 
The eTorque system’s hybrid functions include auto stop/start, electric power assist, extended fuel shut-off, transmission shift management, intelligent battery charging and regenerative braking. Both the engine and fuel flow may be turned off during stops, coasting or when the engine is decelerating.
 
The all-new 2.0-liter I-4 engine features a twin-scroll, low-inertia turbocharger with an electronically actuated waste gate for exceptional responsiveness and performance, even while traversing over difficult terrain. The turbo is mounted directly to the cylinder head to improve durability. A dedicated cooling circuit lowers the temperature of the intake air, throttle body and turbocharger.
 
Direct injection, coupled with turbocharging, enables more efficient combustion and increased performance. The 2.0-liter I-4 engine’s fuel pump supplies the engine’s 2,900-psi high-pressure common-rail injection system. These high pressures produce better fuel atomization and allow for more precise fuel delivery than port fuel-injection systems, which in turn improves both performance and efficiency.
 
The 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine is part of the Global Medium Engine architecture family and features Double Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), dual independent camshaft timing, and a cooled exhaust gas recirculation (C-EGR) system. This is the first time that the combined use of a twin-scroll turbocharger, C-EGR system, Central Direct Injection and the independent liquid cooling intake of air, throttle body and turbo have been employed together. This combination of technologies enables the high levels of performance and reduces fuel consumption.
 
3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine
The FCA US 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine delivers 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque and now features Engine Stop-Start (ESS) as standard equipment. It is engineered to provide a broad torque band with a focus on low-end torque – an essential trait needed for extreme off-roading.
 
An all-new six-speed manual transmission is standard on all Wrangler models equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6, and a new-to-Wrangler eight-speed automatic transmission is optional.
 
Known for its refinement, power, efficiency, and adaptability, there are more than five million 3.6-liter V-6 Pentastar engines on the road today. The 2018 Jeep Wrangler benefits from the popular V-6 engine’s low-range torque, which is needed when out on the trails or whenever the conditions call for it. 
 
3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine
The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine will be available starting in 2019. Wrangler 4-door models will offer the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 engine, rated at 260 horsepower and 442 lb.-ft. of torque, with Engine Stop-Start (ESS) standard. A new eight-speed automatic transmission is standard and is designed to handle the increased torque output.
 
FCA US engineers adapted the engine – manufactured by FCA-owned V.M. Motori – to meet the NAFTA region’s regulatory requirements.
 
Starting in 2019, the EcoDiesel V-6 engine implements new turbocharger technology with a low-friction bearing designed for low end and transient performance. The upgraded EcoDiesel V-6 engine now also features low-friction pistons to improve fuel economy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide an enhanced combustion system – new injector nozzle, piston bowl, and glow plug with integrated combustion pressure sensor to optimize combustion.
 
Class-exclusive eight-speed automatic transmission
The new 2018 Jeep Wrangler offers an eight-speed automatic transmission, enabling the vehicle to optimize engine output while on the trails or enjoying smooth, efficient power delivery at highway speeds. The eight-speed automatic is available on all Jeep Wrangler models.
 
Wrangler’s eight-speed automatic transmission offers a responsive driving experience. Whether commuting during the week or rock crawling on the weekend, customers will enjoy a smooth, linear power delivery and improved fuel efficiency.
 
A unique set of two overdrive ratios improve highway fuel economy and reduce overall noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels.

Uniquely suited to the requirements of the Wrangler Rubicon model, the eight-speed automatic transmission delivers a 77.2:1 crawl ratio. The improved 4x4 performance benefits from a 4.7:1 first gear ratio coupled with a 4.1:1 final drive delivers unmatched capability.
 
Six-speed manual transmission
All-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler models are equipped with the new standard six-speed manual transmission. This transmission features a unique design that employs new gear ratios for improved crawl ratio performance, a new gear pattern, and a cable-operated design, which eliminates shifter vibration and improves sound isolation.
 
The revised shift pattern features improved shift accuracy, a more comfortable shifting position and 50-percent shorter shifter throws than that of the outgoing Wrangler model.
 
A 4.41 ratio spread offers improved fuel efficiency at faster speeds and delivers quick acceleration with smooth, precise shift quality.

Fourth-generation Uconnect system delivers advanced technology
The all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler offers three new Uconnect systems - Uconnect 5-, 7- and 8.4NAV, delivering communication, entertainment and navigation features drivers and passengers desire, including a full-color LED instrument cluster. 2018 marks the first-time Wrangler offers the new, fourth-generation Uconnect systems.

The new Uconnect system includes easy-to-use features, enhanced processing power, faster startup times, and touchscreens that display high-resolution graphics.
 
New Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features
The all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with the Uconnect 7.0 or 8.4NAV systems and includes the new Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features.
 
Apple CarPlay
Seamlessly integrates an iPhone with the vehicle’s built-in display and controls in addition to featuring Siri Voice control. iPhone-equipped drivers can make phone calls, access music, send and receive messages, and receive voice-guided navigation optimized for traffic conditions and more, while staying focused on the road.
 
Android Auto
System shares useful information when driving and makes it easy to access the best of Google technology. Featuring Google Maps with free voice-guided navigation, live traffic information, lane guidance; on-demand access to 30 million songs with Google Play Music; plus the ability to place phone calls or send and receive messages while keeping hands on the wheel; and ask Google search any question. Android Auto also makes it easy to access popular apps and content from the Uconnect system’s touchscreen.
 
Drivers and passengers also have an abundance of infotainment features at their fingertips with SiriusXM Radio, Travel Link, Traffic and Guardian Connected Services that provide real-time information.
 
More than 75 available advanced safety and security features
Safety and security were paramount in the development of the all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler, which offers more than 75 available active and passive safety and security features. Available features include: Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection, ParkView rear backup camera with dynamic grid lines, electronic stability control (ESC) with electronic roll mitigation and four standard air bags.

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[G. David Felt]

Sharp, I love the look of that Rubicon!  

Interesting 48 Volt Hybrid electrical system, did they rent it from MB? 

[Stew]

1 hour ago, dfelt said:

Sharp, I love the look of that Rubicon!  

Interesting 48 Volt Hybrid electrical system, did they rent it from MB? 

My guess is that it is an evolution of the hybrid system in the Pacifica. 

 

I am really interested in that hybrid turbo 4, instant torque.  C&D had numbers on the updated ecodiesel as well and it jumps to 262 HP and around 444 pd ft of torque I believe. 

[daves87rs]

I like......pricing is going to be crazy, but worth it...

[smk4565]

I'd like to see fuel economy on both, I read the V6 was better than the old one, like 17/23 maybe, but I am guessing the Turbo 4 has faster acceleration and better gas mileage than the V6.  So I am not sure what the point of the V6 is.

[G. David Felt]

2 hours ago, smk4565 said:

I'd like to see fuel economy on both, I read the V6 was better than the old one, like 17/23 maybe, but I am guessing the Turbo 4 has faster acceleration and better gas mileage than the V6.  So I am not sure what the point of the V6 is.

Easy, people who fear Hybrids and 48 volt electrical systems like Ocnblu.  

[ocnblu]

6 hours ago, dfelt said:

Easy, people who fear Hybrids and 48 volt electrical systems like Ocnblu.  

ooo I'm so scurred... or it could be ppl who want something simple, reliable and authentic... you know... like a Jeep Wrangler. 

[Robert Hall]

Looks sharp, looks like a Wrangler.  Like the interior upgrades and subtle exterior changes. 

[caddycruiser]

How to do things right and keep raking in the cash...