Taken from the factory floor, it seems.
A leaked image has appeared online claiming to depict the 2019 Jeep Wrangler in all its glory, uncovered and proud in bright red. While the sole image is not the most flattering angle, it does help confirm some speculated details of the ‘JL-series’ Wrangler that will replace the current model.
The most visible detail from this view (provided by JL Wrangler Forums) is the front fender vent, something that observers have long speculated will be a prominent feature in the new Wrangler lineup to help improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Moving further back, it’s visible that the fender flares have been given a more streamlined look, along with reprofiled “hood bumpers” (small rubber stops for the windshield to rest on, if it’s opened and folded forwards).
*speculative renders of the next-generation Wrangler, courtesy of JL Wrangler Forums
Additionally, the Jeep seen here shows off new door hinges, redesigned doorhandles (that will integrate keyless entry technology), a higher-set glasshouse, and a noticeable character line that runs the length of the Wrangler. The biggest nugget of info from these photos comes from the roof: a black canvas top, an optional extra that will be offered with this series of Wrangler, which could also be motorised in its operation. Riveting stuff.
Sources have communicated that the Wrangler will offer no less than six engine variants. Two differently-tuned versions of the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 will feature, along with 3.0-litre and 2.2-litre turbodiesels, as well as a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-pot in two states of tune. This largely lines up with information that’s been gleaned earlier this year, where a 2018 Wrangler Rubicon was spied with a diesel motor, as well as chatter that a 224kW turbo-petrol 2.0-litre will be joining the Wrangler lineup.
Details on the offered body styles were also offered, which detail the “typical two- and four-door configurations,” as well as a ute setup that we’ve spied before. The roof should see several options, including black or tan soft tops, a black or body-coloured hard top, and a power-retractable roof. While all-wheel drive is a given, along with an automatic gearbox, it still remains only a rumour that the next-generation Wrangler will be offered with a manual gearbox.
While there’s little doubt that the V6 engines will dominate North American sales and the diesels will sell healthily in Europe, the question of which engines will be offered for our market remains. A healthy mix of the petrol and diesels (3.0-litre oiler, 3.6-petrol, and 2.0-litre four-pot maybe?) should win over buyers here, though it remains anyone’s guess as to what will eventually play out.
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