Jeep's 2018 Wrangler Rubicon on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Photo by Paul Clinton.

Jeep's 2018 Wrangler Rubicon on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Photo by Paul Clinton.

Jeep revealed its newly designed 2018 Wrangler at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The two-door model is available in three different trims: Sport, Sport S, and Rubicon. Wrangler four-door models are offered in four trim configurations: Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon.

The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 and all-new 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engines join the Wrangler lineup. The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is upgraded for 2018; it delivers 285 horsepower (hp) and 260 pound-feet (lb.-ft.) of torque and now features engine stop-start as standard. The new 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with eTorque technology is rated at 270 hp and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. And the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine delivers 260 hp and 442 lb.-ft. of torque.

The new eTorque system improves fuel economy and launch performance. The system’s hybrid functions include auto stop/start, electric power assist, extended fuel shutoff, intelligent battery charging, and regenerative braking.

A new six-speed manual transmission is standard on all Wrangler models equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6. A new-to-Wrangler eight-speed automatic transmission is optional.

When it comes to safety, the new Wrangler offers more than 75 available active and passive safety and security features, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross path detection, ParkView rear backup camera with grid lines, electronic stability control with electronic roll mitigation, and four standard air bags.

The 2018 Wrangler delivers off-road capability with two 4x4 systems. The Command-Trac 4x4 system offers a two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio and Dana front and rear axles. On the Wrangler Rubicon, a Rock-Trac 4x4 provides heavy-duty Dana 44 front and rear axles. Both 4x4 systems provide full-time torque management.

Production of the 2018 Wrangler has started at the company’s Ohio assembly plant. The new model is expected in showrooms early next year.

Originally posted on Automotive Fleet

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