Here’s how the all-new new JL Wrangler stacks up against the outgoing JK generation
The all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler The all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler is a thoroughly modernized version of the classic Jeep, made for today’s world and today’s customer needs. It comes in either two-door or four-door configuration and in four different trim levels: Sport, Sport S and Rubicon for the two-door and Sport S, Sahara and Rubicon for the four-door. Words & pictures by David Miller ▲
How it stacks up against the outgoing model This gallery showcases how the new JL Wrangler stacks up against the outgoing JK generation. That venerable model had an 11-year run, so there are many changes, as well as a lot of core elements that remain unchanged, all of which should make Jeep lovers happy. ▲
Its off-road capability is simply a given The 2018 model’s off-road capabilities have been improved with a 25-mm-greater (inch-higher) ground clearance and more than three-quarters of a metre (up to 30-inches) of water fording ability, but that’s simply expected. It has retained its rugged looks and traditional heritage throughout, but features improvements in every respect, from premium materials to lightweight construction to on-road smoothness and everything in-between. ▲
Choice of engines Wrangler owners have come to expect a 3.6-litre V-6 engine under the hood and that V-6 remains as the standard engine for 2018, with slight improvements upping its numbers to 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. However, for the first time, buyers have the choice of an optional turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder that produces 270 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The four is matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the V-6 can be had with a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. It’s worth noting that the manual no longer shakes and vibrates as if it was going through a major caffeine rush. ▲
eTorque technology For the 2.0-litre unit, Jeep employs what it calls eTorque technology, which replaces the conventional alternator with a motor/generator unit that can boost torque under acceleration and recoup energy through regenerative braking, as well as enable automatic stop/start technology. In other words, it’s a very mild hybrid system, like GM’s eAssist, although Jeep avoids use of the H-word. For some traditionalists, a 48-volt electric motor and battery pack fitted into a Wrangler may seem like blasphemy, but that added torque boost in the 2.0-litre is instantly felt on acceleration without any turbo lag. ▲
On-road dynamics Driving the new Wrangler is a night-and-day difference from the past iteration, thanks in large to improved torsional stiffness. Jeep’s engineers have focused on smooth power delivery, overall handling and a tighter turning radius, the latter thanks to a wider track and new electro-hydraulic steering gear. The steering still feels a bit ‘loose’, need ing correction at times, but it’s an improvement nonetheless. Road noise is still a thing, but that simply comes with buying a Jeep. ▲
Off-road chops To check out the new Wrangler’s capabilities we were turned loose on an off-road playground in Tuscon, Arizona. As one would expect, the hill climbs and drops were steep and terrifying. The new top-of-the-line Wrangler Rubicon with its increased ground clearance was able to easily climb and weave its way through some large rocks with help from its standard 33-inch tires. The fender flares are pushed forward 50 mm (2 inches) on the Rubicon to accommodate 35-inch tires if needed. If there was error to be made, it would be the fault of the driver as the Rubicon glided its way through every obstacle. ▲
4×4 systems changed for the better A new optional Selec-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case with four-wheel drive mode is offered, a feature more commonplace with SUVs for use in the winter months. The Sport and Sahara trims get a Command-Trac 4×4 system with a 2.72:1 low range for rock crawling, while the Rubicon offers up a premium Rock-Trac with a 4:1 low gear ratio that features stronger Dana axles at the front and rear, as well as electric front- and rear-axle locking differentials and a detachable stabilizer bar. ▲
Lightweight materials contribute to improved fuel economy One of the focal points for Jeep was fuel economy, a non-talking point for past Wranglers. This vehicle was designed with fuel economy in mind as aluminum and high-strength steel components are prominent throughout, in its doors, hinges, hood, fenders and windshield frame. Plus, there’s a magnesium swing gate! A total of 90 kg (200 lb) were shed from the outgoing V-6 model, helping improve fuel economy by 5-to-6 mpg (US) in the 2.0-litre and 4 mpg in the V-6. Canadian fuel-consumption numbers have yet to be released. ▲
Improved visibility In the past, when the roof and windows were up, visibility in the Wrangler has been decent at best. For 2018, Jeep reconfigured its doors by making them larger – a trait uncommon with new vehicles – and lowered its beltline, all for the sake of better visibility for more confident driving. The same can be said for its larger rear window, while the spare tire was moved down for better visibility. ▲
Ease-of-use The new Wrangler far surpasses the outgoing JK-version in almost every respect when it comes to ease-of-use. Among thehe greatest improvements are the reduced labour involved in removing and reattaching its roof, doors and windshield. If you need the side panels off, they simply pop right off through a slide function, and there are no more zippers to deal with. ▲
New soft top technology The Wrangler comes with a range of roof options: a one-touch powertop, conventional hardtop or a premium soft top. Long-time Jeep customer may cringe at the new easy-to-use Sky One-Touch powertop technology, but opening the roof with a press of a button could bring in a different clientele to the Jeep family. This new soft top system offers the functionality of a hard top with a soft top construction. In total, there are dozens of different door, top and windshield combinations. ▲
Windshield and doors The new version has a raked windshield for a 9% improvement in aerodynamics, but it also can be taken out by loosening four internal bolts in about five minutes. This operation has been one of the more difficult aspects of past Wranglers which involved 28 confusing bolts to take out the windshield, forcing people to struggle, damage the paint job, or simply be too intimidated to try. In addition, the doors are made of aluminum and can now close properly like a normally-functioning SUV. They are also easier to remove and carry with an integrated lift handle on the inside. ▲
New front fascia Jeep has retained its iconic rugged, good looks with a longer hood and refreshed seven-slot grille that pays homage to the previous CJ models. Its chiseled grille is complemented by its signature round headlamps featuring a halo light and integrated turn signals. ▲
Stretched dimensions The 2018 Wrangler is longer than the previous generation, by more than 50 mm (2 inches) in the two-door and 75 mm (3 inches) in the four-door. Overall body width grows slightly, but more importantly, its wheelbase gets stretched to provide more rear space, especially legroom. ▲
Functional side vents aid aerodynamics Side vents not only play an aesthetic part, but a practical one. These new Wrangler side vents have been added for air to escape from the side of the vehicle to improve its aerodynamics. ▲
Relocated license plate Previous generations has seen the license plate hanging off the side, which could get caught in awkward situations both on and off the road. For 2018, Jeep has revised its license plate arrangement and relocated it to a more traditional setting, inside the back bumper on the left corner. ▲
Horizontal interior layout pays homage to predecessors Jeep has kept true to its heritage by keeping the horizontal interior makeup of the original Willys MB, as well as the CJ5 and YJ. The appearance retains a wider feel with added height. Additionally, circular vents and buttons are a throwback to the ways of the YJ. ▲
Modern touches to interior Plenty of improvement was needed to step up the premium feel of the Wrangler, as well as its technology. Front and centre is a standard 7-inch or optional 8.4-inch touchscreen unit that uses a fourth-generation Uconnect system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A new instrument cluster makes its look more refined with a standard 3.5-inch screen or an upper-tier seven-inch TFT customizable unit with full-colour graphics. It also has five USB ports and climate control functions for second-row passengers. ▲
Centre console space Interior storage space has been neglected in the past and Jeep has made sure to rectify the situation by increasing the centre console stowage space by 50%. The glove compartment was able to hold my DSL camera without issue, a feat that many SUVs cannot achieve. In addition, the cupholders van not only carry your drinks, but hold up to four mobile devices. ▲
Additional safety equipment In total, there are 70 new safety features in the new Wrangler. They includes Blind Sport Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, and a newly-available ParkView rear backup camera cleverly situated in the centre of the 33-inch rear tire. ▲
Available in the new year The all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler will start to hit showrooms in early 2018 at a starting price of $33,945 for the two-door and $41,745 for the four-door. Top-of-the-line Rubicons begin at $46,345 and $48,745, respectively. Expect a new 3.0-litre turbodiesel to be added to the lineup in 2019, a first for the North American market. ▲
Keyword: 19 ways the new Jeep Wrangler is better than the old one