2018 Jeep Wrangler Prototype Captured Testing

May. 03, 2016 By Josh Burns, Photos by Brian Williams

Although under heavy cover, this is the first time we’ve seen the new 2018 Jeep Wrangler in action. Photographers were able to capture some images of a four-door version of the new Jeep testing just outside of Auburn Hill, Michigan.

Although it is covered with a significant amount of camouflage, this is the first look at what we can expect in the next-generation Wrangler. There have been talks that the new Wrangler will have improved aerodynamics compared to the current JK model, and the more angled windshield that is less vertical points to this concept. The front end also appears to be slightly longer as well.

MORE: 2018 Jeep Wrangler Prototype Gallery

One of the more notable changes even under the heavily camp is the fact that the wheel wells appear to bulge out farther over the tire reminiscent of the Baja bug styling.

Weight reduction is also something we’ve been told to expect, though we expect Jeep to retain steel construction throughout most of the body even though aluminum pieces will ne used in areas to reduce weight. We expect the  Pentastar V6 to still be the main power plant on the next-gen Wrangler though it will likely be paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. We also except to see the 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel as an optional engine, as the engine is already employed on the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Ram Ecodiesel. There’s also been speculation regarding a hybrid powertrain as well, but Chrysler representatives have refused to comment on this.

We expect to see the Wrangler sometimes early next year, with an on-sale date near the summer of 2017.


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