The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL is probably the most anticipated SUV in America. Dubbed the Wrangler JL, it’s supposed to be the next-generation Wrangler, featuring an array of visual and mechanical changes, including a new pickup variant. Not a lot is known, and details are scarce, but I’ve gathered every piece of information leaked so far, and compiled it into this article. Following is what I know, and what I expect the JL to be.
Spy shot of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL
General design of Jeep Wrangler JL won’t change
First off, don’t get worried, the general design and direction of the new Wrangler won’t chance drastically. Compared to the current one, the new Wrangler will have more aerodynamic bodywork, LED lights, and a traditional Wrangler design in the pickup edition as well. The few prototypes I was able to see were well camouflaged, not giving any hints on whether the Wrangler will feature a removable roof or not. I suspect it’s the former, but only time will tell.
Although the design will remain largely the same, with the same seven-slot grille and the same round-shaped headlights, the actual materials will be drastically better. The hood is expected to utilize aluminum, just like the doors, both front and rear. Alcoa will probably supply the aluminum (6022 alloy sheet and A951) and the sheet bonding technology.
Jeep Wrangler JL prototypes have hit the street
The first images of the prototype in action look promising. The FCA camouflaged heavily both the pickup and the SUV editions they were testing out, but a few things were noticeable straight away. First of all, the Wrangler pickup appears to have a rather long wheelbase and a relatively large bed. It’s around the same size as the Chevrolet Suburban, making it more than a match for the competition. The SUV on the other hand, hasn’t deviated from the norm a lot. It’s still got the legendary, boxy shape, but changes were implemented to make sure it gets better fuel economy and to boost overall performance.
Spy shot of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL
The jury is still out on the engine choices
It’s too soon to say what engine choices it will offer, but photographers taking the first shots of the prototype claim it had a distinctive diesel sound. This could indicate that the EcoDiesel V6 is lurking beneath the hood, but that doesn’t really surprise us. It was bound to be a great match for the off-road capable Wrangler, with an eight-speed auto ZF transmission completing the entire package. Four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engines will most probably make an appearance, but how many variations no one knows just yet.
The SUV, traditional-looking Wrangler JL is expected to make an appearance first, with the pickup version debuting shortly after. We’ll know more once we get to see them in person, as well as once official details are announced. I’ll do a review on the Wrangler and report back once I get a chance to drive it, but I expect it to be rather good. Excited? You should be. I know I am.