The 2018 Jeep Wrangler has been at the center of the automotive world's attention for some time now as it is getting an all-new redesign and updated components, making it an all-new Jeep when compared to the 2016 JK Wrangler.
One of the largest changes is the switch to aluminum body panels for the '18 Wrangler, which will shave weight while remaining rugged and strong for the trail.
Swapping out the steel body panels of the JK for aluminum ones will boost fuel efficiency considerably while also making the new Wrangler lighter and more nimble on the trail.
But that's not the only big change Jeep has planned; checkout what's different between the 2016 & 2018 Wrangler in the image above and read about the changes below!
2018 Jeep Wrangler Axles
The outgoing JK Wrangler utilized a Dana 44 for many years, but it appears that they are changing things up with an entirely new axle assembly. There has been some speculation that the new axle is actually a lighter version of the existing Dana 44, just re-engineered to save weight and subsequently increase fuel efficiency.
Although the unrecognizable differential shape has raised a few eyebrows amongst Jeepers, one can have peace of mind knowing that the axles have always been a key feature of the Jeep Wrangler — something that will be no different in 2018.
2018 Jeep Wrangler Engine Options
The 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine has worked as the heart powering the Jeep Wrangler for year and it looks like it will continue to power the 2018 Wrangler; no word yet if it will receive a power bump or continue producing 285 HP & 260 TQ. However, the ’18 Jeep Wrangler will have some other options to choose from including a 300 HP turbo 4-cylinder called the "Hurricane" and a diesel engine.
A long requested power plant, a diesel engine would be perfect for off-roading with its low-end torque and a 4-cylinder would be ideal for the more fuel-focused enthusiasts; pictures of the Hurricane engine have already surfaced online. When it comes to the 2018 Jeep Wrangler engine, it appears there will be options for every type of Jeeper.
2018 Jeep Wrangler Transmission
For 2016 you could get a Wrangler with either a 6-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, but things are changing for 2018. While there was early speculation and rumors that there would be no manual transmission for the 2018 JL Wrangler that were fueled by FCA asking customers how they would feel about not having a manual option, we now know there will be a manual transmission in the '18 Jeep Wrangler.
Jeep has been promoting their new 8-speed ZF-sourced automatic transmission, which looks like it will be offered with every engine and trim option for the new JL Wrangler. The extra gearing should help improve the next-generation Wrangler’s fuel-mileage, while still retaining its off-road prowess.
2018 Jeep Wrangler Top
A design highlight amongst Jeepers has been the Wrangler’s soft top design that has been a key feature of from the early days of Jeeps up to the outgoing JK. For 2018, it appears that the new Wrangler is going to be receiving some design changes in an effort to improve chassis rigidity and stiffness.
There have been strong rumors of three different top options being available for the JL Wrangler, such as a glass top, power soft top, and true 3-piece hardtop The 2018 Jeep Wrangler will reportedly have a modular top that can be removed in sections, allowing you to still open up your rig to the world.
2018 Jeep Wrangler Interior
The 2016 JK Wrangler had the most refined yet rugged interior of any Wrangler to date and it appears that they are going to continue the interior for the 2018 Wrangler. Although details have been sparse, it looks like the next-gen Wrangler will offer increased leg room as well as a generally more spacious cabin.
While it has been confirmed that the new Wrangler will have a fixed windshield, unlike the JK's removable one, there has been no comment if the doors will be removable.
2019 Jeep Wrangler Pickup Truck
One of the biggest changes coming to the Jeep lineup is the addition and reintroduction of a Jeep Pickup Truck. Borrowing design cues from previous Jeep Trucks, the 2019 Jeep Pickup will be an off-road focused truck, with the Wrangler’s DNA powering it.
Featuring the classic lettering style and looks, the new Jeep Pickup looks to offer a mix of utility and play that will be sure to garner the interest of Jeep and Truck enthusiasts alike. We have already seen some spy images of the 2019 Jeep Wrangler Pickup Truck testing off-road, only making us more excited for what is to come!
Words and photos courtesy of AJOR vendor http://www.extremeterrain.com
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2018 Jeep Wrangler Changes
