Jeep by Chrysler

 

In 2018, Jeep decided to release the fourth generation of the Wrangler with the product code JL, and it was unveiled at the LA Auto Show in November 2017. The Jeep Wrangler JL was available in two different body styles like its predecessor. 

Both the three-door regular Wrangler and the extended five-door version (again called Unlimited) come with different roof variations; fixed but also removable roof as the hardtop and a fabric top as the soft-top. 

The Jeep team in Auburn Hills, Michigan, completely renewed the iconic Jeep Wrangler for the JL series while still ensuring that it stays true to legendary off-road capabilities and authentic Jeep design coupled with advanced technologies.

The result is the most capable Wrangler to date thanks to technical components such as the Command-Trac, Rock-Trac, electric Tru-Lock front and rear axle locks, Trac-Lok limited-slip differential, and electronically separable front axle stabilizer.

The new Wrangler JL feels at home on the most demanding terrain as well as on city boulevards or long stretches of highway. Combined with more open-air freedom and advanced technologies for safety and connectivity, it utilizes a modern design that is true to the original. 

The fourth generation of the Jeep Wrangler is available today in three configurations: Sport, Sahara, and Rubicon - each with two or four doors - and optionally with the new, high-quality Overland package for the Sahara version.

 

Body

Jeep by Chrysler

 

The classic seven vertical struts in the radiator grille, called the iconic seven-slot grille, have, of course, remained in the new generation. However, they are now framed in contrasting black, making the front appear more robust. Also, the grill and windshield are tilted back a little this time around for better aerodynamics. 

The length of the Jeep Wrangler has increased by 4,3 inches to 14,2 ft for the 3-door version and 5,1 inches to 16 ft for the 5-door version in the long wheelbase. The ground clearance is a whopping 10 inches. 

The new Jeep Wrangler JL utilizes a hardtop, soft, and dual top as roof variants. A soft top is integrated into the dual top, which can be opened at the push of a button. Especially with the complete soft top, Jeep has reduced wind noise while driving. And even with the top open, you can easily drive at 45 mph without causing any significant wind noise. 

The hardtop can still be removed; the two front parts are easy to unlock and remove. The rear part, however requires the use of tools and screws. The doors can also be removed, and the windscreen folded away to the front. 

The use of aluminum has made the new Jeep Wrangler a good 220 lbs lighter. It is equipped with 17 inches for Sport and Rubicon or 18 inches for the Sahara. In addition, the headlights and the brake lights are now available as standard LED technology for Sahara and Rubicon.

 

Interior

Jeep by Chrysler

 

The interior of the new Wrangler JL offers many precise details. The dashboard is arranged completely horizontally, and the operating units are then arranged vertically at a 90-degree angle. 

The seating positions is very upright and extremely high, so you have a good overview. The doors are also very narrow, which allows an excellent side view of potential obstacles, especially off-road.

This time around, the quality of materials in the interior has deeply improved. You can find clever details such as parts that are visibly fixed with actual screws. Some elements are rather practical, but there is a lot of hard plastic. 

The basic entry version comes with cloth seats and the doors are covered with imitation leather. Attractive fabric seats with red contrast stitching are available for the Rubicon. The Overland trim level available for the Sahara, comes standard with 18-inch rims and leather seats. 

The cockpit is 3.5 inchesand the central infotainment system is 7 inches in basic version or optionally 8.4 inches in higer trim levels. That infotainment system now have a faster processor and Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are supported as standard in both versions. 

There is enough legroom and headroom for tall adults on four seats both in the five-door and in the three-door. The folding mechanism of the seats can be reached from both the rear seats and the trunk. 

The trunk itself is quite square but not fully utilized in width. But the rear seats fold very well, creating a wonderfully flat loading area in the five-door. In the three-door, one step remains when the seat is folded down.

 

Technology

Jeep by Chrysler

 

The new Jeep Wrangler JL & JLU comes with 4 different engine options. The smallest and therefore the most economic gasoline version is the four cylinder in-line 2.0 liter engine with 271 hp outcome. 

The second gas option is the 3.6 liter V6 with 290 hp. This is the biggest engine option so if you want to drive your Wrangler fast, that’s the best available engine for you. It also is probably the best engine for tough off-road conditions. 

The diesel engine options  are 2.2 liter in-line engine with 200 hp and 3.0 liter V6 engine with 264 hp. They both have the capability of creating huge torque numbers and the smaller one has great fuel economy.

 

Jeep by Chrysler

 

The large gasoline engine comes with a 6-speed manual transmission and optionally with an 8-speed automatic transmission, all other engines come with the 8-speed automatic transmission from ZF, taken directly from the Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2. 

In mid-July 2020, Jeep presented the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept , a study with the 6.4-liter Chrysler HEMI V8 engine. Jeep presented the 470 hp monster series model in November 2020 to only be sold in North America.

A version called 4xe with a plug-in hybrid drive was presented in early September 2020. A two-liter gas engine in combination with an electric motor achieves a system output of 280 kW (381 hp). Jeep specifies the electric range as 25 miles.

 

Protecting a Jeep Wrangler JL & JLU

 

The new Jeep Wrangler JL remains true to itself, is drawn a little more distinctively and has increased quality in every aspect. As a five-door vehicle, it offers a lot of space and generally a lot of unmistakable features on the exterior and interior. As a three-door vehicle, it is more manoeuvrable and suitable for city use, but the loading space is clearly limited. 

As with all Wrangler series the Wrangler JL is a special car to drive and special cars need special attention. You are going to need to protect your open top off road machine with everything you can. Otherwise, your joy might end prematurely and you might face substantial repair bills. 

As a company Jeep is well aware of Wrangler’s need for high maintenance and they are not afraid to say it. That’s why they officially partnered up with Coverking, which is the best cover company in USA. This partnership is ready to take care of everything for you and your vehicle.

 

 

Coverking should be your go-to manufacturer if you drive a Jeep Wrangler. They have a great selection of custom Jeep parts and you will be amazed to see what you can get for your off-roader. 

They even have an equipment that will turn your vehicle into an Overlanding machine with a bed. Check out this Jeep JLU bed and see it for yourself! Also, this Topliner and this SoundBar cover are both a must have for a Wrangler driver.

As a convertible vehicle, the Jeep Wrangler must be covered up if you are going to park your car for a longer period than a couple days. We sincerely recommend Moving Blanket Car Cover as indoor and Autobody Armor Car Cover as outdoor covers.

 

Resources

 

Coverking Links

 

Tankut Basar

Tankut Basar is an ARA (American Rally Assoc.) Racing Driver and an FIA Bronze Category License Holder. His passion for driving began with karting like most racers. He started racing internationally at the age of 22. Tankut loves everything car-related and will keep enjoying the drive until the end.

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