In today’s ever-shrinking, internet-based world, no secret goes unshared, especially when it’s the user’s guide for the next-generation Jeep Wrangler, which has been leaked, and reveals the new 4×4’s equipment including push-button start and a power sliding top among others.
The new Wrangler, who’s goodies were revealed by a fan site called JL Wrangler Forum, is set to roll down Fiat Chrysler’s revamped assembly line in Toledo, Ohio, beginning next month. Perhaps the most identifiable Jeep on the planet, the Wrangler boasts off-roading fans as well as open-air mavens around the world.
The go-anywhere ute used to be a bare-boned beast, but over the years, more and more convenience features crept into the truck. The push-button start and power top are new for this iteration, but other niceties will include keyless entry, blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors and a backup camera, according to the newly — albeit unceremoniously — debuted user’s guide.
Other options available on the new model include: automatic all-wheel drive with a five-position transfer case, new off-road pages for the Uconnect infotainment system and paddle shifters. It will also have built-in customizable auxiliary switches for aftermarket accessories.
(Jeep Wrangler named “most American vehicle.” What does that mean? Click Here to find out.)
Looking through the guide reveals that the new model will offer a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The powerplant features stop/start to improve fuel economy.
There are two engines, according to the guide: a 2.0-liter engine and a 3.6-liter engine. However, it’s likely the smaller displacement model is a turbo-charged four-cylinder, rumored to be the Hurricane, while the other is the 3.6-liter is the tried-and-true Pentastar V6 already used in the current model.
Motor Trend also noticed “a coolant reservoir for a ‘motor generator unit,’ which confirms the available mild hybrid system.”
(Click Here for details about the 2018 Jeep Wrangler.)
Unsurprisingly, two- and four-door models will be available in the new model. When it’s time to head off the tarmac, there are four modes on the selector: two-wheel-drive high range, four-wheel-drive high range, neutral, and four-wheel-drive low range.
There is also a version with a five-mode transfer case, which includes a four-wheel drive auto high range and a four-wheel drive part time high range. A four-wheel drive Auto mode engages the front axle but directs the vehicle’s power to the rear wheels until the situation calls for four driven wheels, MT noted.
Fiat Chrysler has spent much of the last 18 months preparing for the new Wrangler, shifting product of the Cherokee from Toledo to its Belvidere, Illinois, assembly plant to allow for more Wranglers — and Wrangler-based Jeep truck — in Ohio.
(Click Here to check out this year’s crop of Jeep concepts from the annual Moab safari.)
The automaker hasn’t revealed the new Wrangler, but says it’s coming to dealership early next year. In the meantime, production of the current Wrangler continues through the first quarter of 2018 before its production line in Toledo is converted to produce the aforementioned Wrangler-based pickup.
