Visual proof that the next Wrangler will have a four-banger.
This is the visual proof of what’s been widely rumored: In 2018, Jeep Wrangler will feature a turbocharged four cylinder engine along with its 3.6-liter V6. The engine, which is shown here in Wrangler prototype form, is believed to be 2.0 liters in displacement and will be called “Hurricane.”
The various induction hoses running from the front to the back of the engine bay are clues that this engine packs turbo-power. It is also obvious that this engine block is an inline one, and not the V6 found in today’s Wrangler. The oil filter cartridge, as on all four-cylinder Fiat Chrysler engines, is located at one end.
A turbo-four engine will help the 2018 Jeep Wrangler achieve higher fuel efficiency and increase the Jeep brand’s Corporate Average Oil Economy rating. According to earlier reports, the engine will be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Hurricane mill will use a twin roll turbo and an aluminum block. Peak power is estimated at around 300 horsepower.
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has also revealed that the Wrangler will include diesel as well as hybrid powertrains throughout its lifetime. A revised 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 will be the standard engine. It will also be mated to an 8-speed automatic, instead of the current five-speed.
Sergio Marchionne, CEO of the company, has announced that the 2018 Jeep Wrangler will be available next year with a “mixed material” construction strategy. Some but not all parts will be made from aluminum.
Rumours that the entire bodywork would be made of aluminum have been dispelled. The Wrangler’s new generation will be lighter than the previous one, but it will still have the same body-on-frame design. Jeep plans to continue building the Wrangler’s current version for a few more months, in order to overlap with the new Wrangler. And eventually, Jeep may launch the long-rumored Wrangler pickup trucks.