2018 Jeep Wrangler JL: Changing Everything Without Changing Anything

The designers and engineers who were tasked with creating the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL had a very difficult job. They had to update a vehicle with an extremely large and loyal following, made up of fans who love the vehicle just the way it is.

But the new Jeep Wrangler could not stand still. It had to keep up with increasingly strict safety and fuel economy standards. The Jeep Wrangler team was given simple marching orders: Don’t screw it up!

The result is the new 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL (the previous generation Wrangler JK will continue in production through March 2018). While it is all new, inside and out, the Wrangler JL has preserved that original Wrangler DNA. It has evolved into a rugged but modern vehicle that meets the needs of both die-hard Wrangler fans and first-time buyers.

Outside, It’s The Same But Better

A variety of subtle tweaks to the 2018 Wrangler JL’s body have improved its aerodynamics, which was never one of its strong suits! There is a small bend in the front grille, about two-thirds of the up from the bottom. This alone has improved aerodynamics by about nine percent. The windshield has also been raked back for better aero performance. Other aero aids include a lip spoiler at the rear of the roof, and a slight tapering of the roof towards the rear.

The windshield still folds down, but a new header bar remains in place, creating a full roll cage-type structure around the cab. The doors and top are still removable, allowing for the traditional open-air Wrangler driving experience. Both two-door Wrangler and four-door Wrangler Unlimited versions will continue to be available.

Now There Are Three Wrangler Engines To Choose From

In addition to the Wrangler’s previous 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine with 285 horsepower, there are two new engine options for the Wrangler JL. An all-new 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 270 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2.0L has 35 lb.-ft. more torque than the Pentastar, while only giving up 15 horsepower. A 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine with stop-start will available next year, in the 2019 Wrangler JL. It is rated at 260 horsepower and a whopping 442 lb.-ft. of torque!

For 2018, Wrangler JL transmission options are a new six-speed manual transmission, or an eight-speed automatic. The 3.0L EcoDiesel is available only with the automatic.

More Tech Inside The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL

The all-new 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL is the first Wrangler to offer the new, fourth-generation Uconnect systems. You get easy-to-use features, enhanced processing power, faster startup times, and high-resolution touchscreens. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are also included. A full-color LED instrument cluster is available.

Standard safety equipment consists of four air bags, ParkView rear backup camera with dynamic grid lines, and electronic stability control with electronic roll mitigation. Available driver assistance features include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross path detection.

Should You Lease A 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL?

Absolutely! The 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL is a capable, yet fun vehicle that you can enjoy both on and off the road. There should be competitive leases available, too. We would recommend that you invest in wear-and-tear insurance if you plan to do any serious off-roading!