Refreshing or Revolting: 2018 Jeep Wrangler

After releasing the first official photos of the Wrangler at SEMA this year, Jeep chose to officially reveal the JL Wrangler at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show. It’s supposed to be lighter and more efficient, offer more features and technology, and still maintain its position as one of the most capable street-legal off-roaders you can buy new. Alongside the 3.6-liter V-6, you’ll also be able to get your JL with a turbocharged four-cylinder or a turbodiesel V-6. Plus, Jeep says it plans to offer a plug-in hybrid option, as well. It’s definitely still got that classic Wrangler look, but how does the new design compare to the previous one?

Up front, there are a few things Jeep definitely couldn’t mess with. As a result, the seven-slot grille and round headlights are still there, just like they should be. But there have been plenty of more subtle changes, like taking the Jeep badge off the grille, adding LED headlights and “halo” running lights, and using narrower fenders and bumpers. If you spring for the Wrangler Rubicon, the fenders are also mounted higher. Like the front end, the side view is also still classic Wrangler, with only minor tweaks here and there. One of the most important additions is the vent on the side that Jeep says will eliminate the hood flutter that Wranglers are known for.

Out back, Jeep gave the redesigned Wrangler new LED taillights to go with its LED headlights. A backup camera comes standard now, too, and it’s mounted to the center of the spare tire. But even with new taillights, the JL is still instantly recognizable as a Wrangler from the rear. If you ask us, we think it’s a tasteful update to a classic design that will age well.

Inside, Jeep now offers three different infotainment screens, including one touchscreen that measures a massive 8.4 inches. Regardless of which one you choose, though, the cabin is still completely waterproof. And when the terrain gets rough, there are still plenty of grab-handles to help passengers hang on for dear life. The Wrangler might offer more modern features like USB ports and push-button start, but it’s still far from civilized.

Jeep has yet to confirm when the Wrangler will land on dealer lots or what it will cost when it does, but expect to hear more in the near future. When deliveries do begin, the V-6 is expected to go on sale first, followed by the four-cylinder a little later. Assuming it passes emissions testing, the 30-mpg diesel version will arrive third, with the plug-in hybrid option getting here in 2020.

 

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