2012 Jeep Wrangler Mw3 X on 2040-cars

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Jeep Comanche Moab Concept: Hell yeah!

The moment I saw the Jeep Renegade I knew it was a winner, at least in terms of styling. The Renegade's "face" is exactly what small 21st-century Jeeps should look like. It has loads of Jeep's visual heritage DNA – important! – that has been brought up-to-date in the best possible way. (Now if only they could graft that face on to the new-ish Cherokee...). Where the Renegade falls short is what's under the skin. Thanks to misguided marketing, it is saddled with a rather unremarkable USA-spec 2.4L four, undersized tires, so-so ground clearance, an iffy 9-speed automatic, and a questionable (available) low range. I don't mind the independent suspension; in fact I embrace it, as IFS/IRS is the future in terms of off-road suspension design. So, for me, the Renegade is a close-but-no-cigar vehicle, at least as it currently stands. This new Comanche, however, shows how the Renegade can evolve; both as a 4-door SUV, and in terms of how spin-off models can be developed. Big beefy tires, flared out fenders, and great ground clearance are the main ingredients that make this work visually. Still wish for a 3.6L V6 under the hood, but the 2.0L diesel isn't a bad alternative. Anyway, I think a Comanche pickup makes more sense than the predicted Wrangler-based pickup. Why? I'm not big on retro-vehicles in general. Rarely do they survive long term. Besides, the Comanche would be far more civilized and livable. I could see this Comanche pickup as a daily driver much more so than a Wrangler-based pickup. Yeah, I like and value creature comforts over ultimate off-road ability. I think most pickup buyers would agree. Finally, while there is a large devoted Wrangler following who would love a Wrangler-based pickup, I bet this Renegade-based Comanche would bring more new customers into the Jeep tent – especially over a much wider age demographic. Related Video: Image Credit: FCA Jeep jeep comanche open road

Jeep Wrangler plug-in hybrid confirmed for 2020

The Jeep Wrangler will get a plug-in hybrid electric model in 2020, brand head Mike Manley confirmed this week at the Los Angeles Auto Show in a move he says is "future proofing" the legendary off-roader. "A full plug-in electric Jeep Wrangler will be available in 2020, furthering our commitment to all those who value the responsible, sustainable enjoyment of the great outdoors and very importantly, future proofing this Wrangler for generations to come," he said after the reveal of the 2018 model. It was reminiscent of a Steve Jobs 'One More Thing' moment from an Apple event. Manley explained the details of the new Wrangler, codenamed JL, and then dropped the EV nugget near the end of the press conference in Los Angeles. He didn't offer up further details like range or power. The plug-in hybrid will join a now-expansive powertrain lineup for new generation of the Wrangler. Jeep will offer a mild hybrid next year with its 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine. Called eTorque, the hybrid adds regeneration, stop-start and electric power assist. This system makes 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. In 2019, the Wrangler will get a 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel engine rated at 260 hp and 442 lb-ft. The tried-and-true Pentastar V6 with 285 hp and 260 lb-ft also continues. In an exclusive interview with Autoblog in January, Manley previewed the Wrangler's electric plans at the Detroit Auto Show. "The hybridization could actually help Wrangler," he said, noting it could improve torque distribution, a critical element for four-wheel drive vehicles." He added, "Electrification, absolutely. I could see Wrangler being a form of electric." The 2018 Wrangler goes on sale in January featuring a raft of improvements. It is about 200 pounds lighter thanks to the use of aluminum. There are also new engines, updated styling features and a nicer interior. Related Video: Featured Gallery 2018 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon View 80 Photos Green LA Auto Show Jeep SUV Off-Road Vehicles confirmed 2017 LA Auto Show

Everything we know about the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL

The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL is perhaps the most highly anticipated SUV in America. The next-gen Wrangler is expected to get a host of updates that include new front and rear end designs, as well as an all-new pickup truck variant. Here's everything we know about the next version of Jeep's iconic SUV. November 7, 2016: JL Wrangler Forums released renderings of the 2018 Wrangler, and the SUV will generally stay the course. Compared with the current Wrangler, the new one will likely have slightly more aerodynamic bodywork and LED lighting, and the truck version's bed will carry traditional Wrangler design cues. The renderings also visualize what a Wrangler without a fully removable top could be like. The loss of the removable top is currently a rumor, and FCA's well-camouflaged prototypes have not given up the secrets of the roof. View 6 Photos October 18, 2016: Images of the upcoming Wrangler JL from a supposed Jeep dealer meeting surface, revealing the SUV's updated front and rear end design. The renderings point towards the next-gen Wrangler maintaining a seven-slot grille and round headlights. The SUV, though, will obtain LED light bars on the front fenders, while the taillights get a similar design to the units found on the Renegade crossover. Overall, the renderings display a smoother shape than ever before. September 16, 2016: A report from JL Wrangler Forums indicates that the next-gen Wrangler JL would utilize aluminum on the hood, as well as on the front and rear doors. The report claims the Wrangler will get its aluminum from supplier Alcoa, in the form of the company's C6A1 high form alloy, 6022 alloy sheet, and A951, which is the company's sheet bonding technology. View 30 Photos July 20, 2016: The first images of the Wrangler pickup truck hit the web. The pickup truck appears to be riding on a long-wheelbase Wrangler and flaunts a decently sized bed. From the overhead photos, we can see that the pickup truck will have a seven-slot grille, large rear taillights that mimic ones found on Ram's trucks, and be about the same size as a Chevrolet Suburban. Oh yes, the Wrangler pickup truck does exist and it's coming. July 10, 2016: A report from Automotive News claims that the Wrangler JL will continue to have its iconic, boxy shape, but changes have been made to ensure that the SUV is better off in terms of fuel economy. What Jeep has done to improve the next-gen Wrangler's fuel efficiency, though, is still a mystery.