Next-Gen Jeep Wrangler Pickup: Diesels and Hybrids are Coming [News]

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According to reports, the next generation of the iconic Jeep Wrangler will eventually be offered with diesel and hybrid powertrains, as well as the much anticipated Wrangler-based pickup. Although gas prices are currently low, Jeep is looking to the future (and keeping regulators happy) by offering these new variants, which should offer savings at the pump. To further increase fuel economy, the new Wrangler is said to utilize aluminum construction.

Which diesel engine the new Wrangler will feature has not yet been announced, but it’s likely it will be the 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel that is being offered in the Ram EcoDiesel pickup. In that setting, the engine puts out 240 horsepower and 420 lb-ft of torque. That would make for one mean Wrangler. The hybrid in question is described as “a mild hybrid”. Of this powertrain we are slightly more skeptical, as hybrid systems on blocky vehicles have yet to yield significant advantages relative to their extra cost. The new hybrid system will also be available in the Ram.

If current gas prices remain low, Jeep is poised to continue achieving staggering sales figures for the Wrangler. But when prices go back up (and they will), these new powertrain options should help Jeep to keep selling the Wrangler like hotcakes. Look for the next-gen Wrangler in 2017. The alternative powertrains will debut after the gas model, although timing has not been announced.

Brian Waring
Brian is an engineer by trade but his true passion is anything automotive. He wakes up every morning to search the web for the latest industry news. He enjoys taking his Tacoma 4×4 off-road in the mountains of Colorado where he spends his free time hiking, biking, and snowboarding with his wife and dogs near their Rocky Mountain home.