Building on its blue-chip legacy with the confidence of a company very much at the top of its game, Jeep has finally revealed its significantly upgraded 2018 model year Wrangler.
“Jeep has always represented the ultimate in capability and open-air freedom, and our all-new 2018 Wrangler protects that important legacy and takes it into the future,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global.
“The all-new Wrangler is instantly recognizable as a Jeep, staying true to the original, yet it is better in every way – delivering even more rugged capability, more ride comfort, more fuel efficiency courtesy of several advanced powertrain options, more interior comfort, more safety and more technology.”
AT the official launch (at the Los Angeles Auto Show) in late November last year Jeep confirmed that the new two-door Wrangler will be available in three different trim configurations, Sport, Sport S and Rubicon, while the LWB four-door models will be available in four, Sport, Sport S, Sahara and Rubicon.
For the first time in Wrangler’s history, a two-speed transfer case with full-time four-wheel drive and a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio will be available on Sahara models. This new Selec-Trac full-time two-speed transfer case is intuitive and the system comes complete with solid Dana front and rear axles with a 3.45 rear axle ratio.
On Wrangler Rubicon models, a Rock-Trac 4x4 system features heavy-duty Dana 44 front and rear axles with a “4LO” ratio of 4:1. A 4.10 front and rear axle ratio is standard as are Tru-Lok locking differentials.
Wrangler Rubicon models also offer improved articulation and total suspension travel versus the previous generation with help from an electronic sway-bar disconnect. With the standard six-speed manual transmission, Wrangler Rubicon has an improved crawl ratio of 84.2:1, while with the new eight-speed automatic it is 77.2:1, making scaling any obstacle on the trail.
While immediately recognizable with its traditional Jeep design cues the new Wrangler gets a lowered beltline with larger window area while the top of the keystone-shaped grille has been gently swept back for improved aerodynamics.
The windshield’s rake has also been optimized for improved aerodynamics and features a new four bolt design at the top of the frame to allow the windshield to fold down quickly and easily.
A new header bar now connects the A-pillars and stays in place even when the windshield is folded down, allowing the rearview mirror to remain in place even with the windshield folded.
Dozens of different door, top and windshield combinations allow for endless configuration possibilities, and a new half-door design will be available starting in 2019.
While there is no word – yet – on either engine options or even indicative NZ RRPs, first deliveries are expected in the fourth quarter.
To read every story in the February 2018 issue of NZ4WD go to Zinio.com (Jan 20) or purchase your own hard copy at the Adrenalin store.
