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Next Jeep Wrangler spotted with 8-speed and EcoDiesel

Although it may not look like it, there are big changes coming to the next-generation Wrangler. The 2018 model will use aluminum for weight savings, spawn a pickup version, and offer new engines. This latest set of spy images brings confirmation of two new powertrain items. The spy photos below show a Wrangler mule with the current interior and an eight-speed automatic shifter fitted in place of the old five-speed unit. (There's a comparison photo in the gallery.) The shifter design matches that of the refreshed Dodge Charger and Challenger; the final Jeep version is likely to differ, but this clearly indicates what kind of transmission is underneath. Chrysler builds eight-speed automatics from a ZF design and also uses some transmissions built by ZF. View 4 Photos While it's not visible in the photos, the unmistakable sound of a diesel was heard coming from this Jeep. The EcoDiesel V6 is expected to be available alongside a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is rumored to have the code name "Hurricane." The turbo four may completely replace the current gas V6 or be offered in addition. There's a good chance the eight-speed will also be paired with the Hurricane engine, since improved fuel economy is a goal for the new model across the board. We don't yet know whether a manual transmission will be offered again, but it's a pretty good bet for one of the gas engines since many diehard off-roaders prefer the ultimate control. Related Video: Featured Gallery 2018 Jeep Wrangler Detailed Spy Photos View 18 Photos Spy Photos Jeep SUV Off-Road Vehicles jeep wrangler unlimited

Stop waiting for the official Wrangler pickup and buy one of the last AEV Brutes

We're eagerly anticipating the launch of Jeep's official pickup truck. If you have the means, though, you can have a Wrangler pickup right now. American Expedition Vehicles (AEV) still builds its Wrangler-based Brute Double Cab. But if you want one, you'll need to order it soon. This is the last year AEV will build the truck, and it will only take orders until March 31. There is a reason we mention needing the means to purchase one of these Brutes. They're really expensive. The conversion starts at $41,665. And that doesn't include the cost of the Wrangler Unlimited to be converted. You do get an impressive piece of kit for the money, though. AEV obviously adds the composite bed and lengthens the frame a total 39 inches to make it fit, but the company also adds a suspension lift, 35-inch tires, a Warn winch, skid plates, and off-road lights. AEV will even replace the standard 3.6-liter V6 with a 5.7- or 6.4-liter Hemi V8 if you want. Of course, that will obviously cost extra. If you're interested in placing an order, you can call 248-926-0256, or find dealer contact info at this link. If you can't afford one but still want to know more, you can check out our quick review. Our tester only had the 3.6-liter V6, but it was still pretty sweet. Related Video:

BMW M850i Convertible, VW Tiguan and Easter Jeep Safari concepts | Autoblog Podcast #669

In this week's Autoblog Podcast, Editor-in-Chief Greg Migliore is joined by Consumer Editor Jeremy Korzeniewski. This week, they've been driving the BMW M850i xDrive Convertible and VW Tiguan. In the news, Peugeot isn't coming to the U.S. after all, Harley-Davidson has a CPO program, Jeep teased some Easter Safari concepts and Kia's got a big fire problem. Finally, they help a listener choose a replacement for a Nissan 350Z in the "Spend My Money" segment. Autoblog Podcast #669 Get The Podcast iTunes – Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes RSS – Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator MP3 – Download the MP3 directly Rundown Cars We're Driving 2021 BMW M850i xDrive Convertible 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan News Peugeot's U.S. return officially canned as Stellantis doubles down on Alfa Romeo Harley-Davidson launches CPO program to entice younger buyers Jeep teases 'Magneto' and other concepts for Easter Jeep Safari Kia tells 380,000 more owners to park their cars outside due to fire risk Spend My Money Feedback Email – Podcast@Autoblog.com Review the show on iTunes Autoblog is now live on your smart speakers and voice assistants with the audio Autoblog Daily Digest. Say “Hey Google, play the news from Autoblog” or "Alexa, open Autoblog" to get your favorite car website in audio form every day. A narrator will take you through the biggest stories or break down one of our comprehensive test drives. Related Video: Green Podcasts BMW Jeep Kia Peugeot Convertible Coupe Crossover Motorcycle SUV Concept Cars Electric Luxury Off-Road Vehicles Performance