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2018 Jeep Wrangler four-cylinder could be incredibly potent

Update: We hear the 368-hp rating in the NHTSA documents isn't accurate. The story has been modified to reflect that. Update 2: The document has been removed from NHTSA's website. We already knew that the next-generation Jeep Wrangler would offer two engines this time around, a V6 and a new turbocharged four-cylinder. Documentation from FCA to NHTSA that JL Wrangler Forums discovered suggests the V6 will become the entry-level engine with the same 285 horsepower as the current one, while the turbo 2.0-liter inline-four takes the top spot with 368 horsepower. However, we're now hearing that figure isn't accurate. That's an all-around impressive four-cylinder – and obviously likely too good to be true. Besides making about 80 more horsepower than its bigger V6 cousin, it would also be the second most powerful four-cylinder available in the United States. It would only be 7 horsepower shy of the current four-pot power champ, the Mercedes-Benz CLA45, which makes 375 horsepower. It's also 18 horsepower ahead of the next closest engine, the turbo four in the Focus RS that makes 350 horsepower. If you do decide to pick up a 2018 Wrangler with the four-cylinder, you'll have to settle for an automatic transmission. Only the V6 will be available with both an automatic and manual transmission. Both engines should be available at launch, which we expect to come shortly after an expected reveal at the Los Angeles auto show. The FCA documentation also suggests that the four-door model will be the first body style available, with the two-door arriving slightly later. Related Video: Featured Gallery Jeep Wrangler Spy Shots View 28 Photos News Source: JL Wrangler Forums / FCAImage Credit: KGP Photography Jeep SUV Off-Road Vehicles jeep wrangler unlimited

2018 Jeep Wrangler owner’s manuals leaked, and they tell us much — but not all

If you're looking for some light reading to start your week, we have a suggestion for you. The " Owner's Manual" and the " User Guide" for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler have leaked, and have been posted on the JL Wrangler Forums. They appear to be the real deal. There's a ton of information, and many pages to pore over, but here's a little bit of what we've gleaned so far. The documents (assuming they're not just some very elaborate and convincing hoax) confirm the power sliding top, which is not removable, though the rear quarter windows are. We're not seeing any mention of a power soft top, though. There are instructions on door removal, as well as folding down the windshield. The manuals also confirm a 4WD Auto mode that shifts power between the front and rear axles as needed. What we don't appear to have yet are complete specifications. The manuals mention the 2.0-liter and 3.6-liter engines, but not their output figures. The 2.0-liter recommends premium fuel, while the 3.6-liter only needs 87 octane. Towing capacity for the two-door models is 2,000 pounds, while the four-door versions are capable of 3,500 pounds. The manuals also provide a lot of images, if you're interested in seeing the nitty gritty details of the Wrangler's various functions. Take a look, and make sure to post any interesting findings in the comments section, below. Related Video:

Gilles defends 2014 Jeep Cherokee design as "very contemporary"

Following the forced-hand introduction of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, there has definitely been a mix of responses revolving around everything from its design to the return of the legendary nameplate. As evidence of this, just check out the 1,000+ comments in our article last week and some of the many opinions that were voiced. Following this not-too-warm reception, Ward's Auto had a chance to talk to Chrysler designer chief - and SRT president - Ralph Gilles, who shed a little more light on the styling direction of the new Cherokee.
Rather than looking to previous models for inspiration, Gilles says that the Cherokee has been designed to be more contemporary, with Mark Allen, head of Jeep design, adding that a main goal was to make sure the design still looks modern five years from now. Interestingly, Gilles does point out that one of the design elements incorporated on the new Cherokee that pays homage to past Jeeps is the sharply downward angle for the leading edge of the beltline, which he notes is meant to mimic the look of the old YJ and TJ Wrangler models fitted with half doors. Of course, the squared-off wheel openings - a signature Jeep cue - are still used.
This is probably a design that will need to be seen on the street in actual daylight to properly assess, but in the meantime, we'll bring you full images and impressions when the Cherokee debuts at next month's New York Auto Show.