Without any further waits, Jeep have unveiled the all-new Wrangler at Sema. Jeep are calling the 2018 JL Wrangler it the ‘most capable SUV ever’, which going by the pedigree of previous models, could well be true. The Wrangler has always been a weapon at technical, cross-country and low-speed terrain; and by the looks of things, nothing will change in that regard.
There isn’t any more artist’s impressions or spied vehicles to look at anymore; this is it. There isn’t much official information, aside from the fact it’s business-as-usual for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler, and there is a tonne of Mopar bolt-ons and mods coming as well.
There will be two-door and four-door versions of the JL Wrangler once again, a tradition starting with the JK that gives it much more appeal and practicality for buyers. Along with a frugal diesel engine, the JK Wrangler has been used by many as a touring 4X4, like this one.
Jeep hasn’t dared changed the basic formula that makes the Wrangler what it is today. Aside from all new engine, gearbox and diffs underneath, it looks like the suspensions setup and overall look will be much similar. The grille is slightly tweaked with an 80’s spec bend in it, and so are the dimensions. But it’s still all undeniably Wrangler. Which is good; there won’t’ be riots.
The ‘Sahara’ brand is the Wrangler’s top-spec version, with chrome bits, a full roof and flashy interior. You can expect leather and lots of tech and electric controls in this model, and decent comfort for two rows of adults. The headlights look like they are LED, and the wheelbase might be a bit longer than the current JK Unlimited.
The two-door version here is the Rubicon, Jeeps all-out capable version. We don’t have details on specific off-road goodies at the moment, but considering the JK Rubicon was fully locked, with awesome transfer case reduction gears and swaybar disconnects, this will no doubt be a very capable 4X4 in rough terrain.
It’s interesting to note here the inclusion of BF Goodrich all-terrains from factory, and the fold-down windscreen. The flares look like they are screaming for some taller rubber already, and the bumper is much less obtrusive than the current model (with the obligatory Jeep red tow-bar on the front, insert breakdown jokes here).
In any case, we’re excited. There’s a new 4WD coming to Australia with genuine off-road capability and good potential for touring. The Wrangler ute is definitely exciting as well, and should give the Wrangler even more suitability for Australian 4WDers.
What do you think? Will you be having a closer look at the 2018 Jeep Wrangler?
