The Jeep Wrangler Gets a New Heart for 2012

The Wrangler is easily the most iconic and capable Jeep product in their current line-up and for 2012, that capability will expand even further.  While the exterior will remain the same (with the exception of a few different color combinations), changes will be made under the hood.  Replacing the old, Chrysler LLC 3.8 liter iron-block V6 in all trim levels of the current generation JK Wrangler will be the award-winning new corporate engine: the 3.6 liter Pentastar V6.

“Our new 3.6-liter V-6 engine gives the ever-capable Wrangler a completely new, more refined on-road driving experience – complete with more fuel efficiency, power and torque,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO for Jeep Brand.  In Wrangler trim, the Pentastar produces 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.  That’s a 40 percent increase in horsepower and 10 percent increase in torque compared to the 3.8 liter.  Not only will the 2012 Wrangler be more powerful and faster, but it will also be much more efficient.  Behind the higher output engine will also be an updated five speed automatic, replacing the previous four speed unit.  With this new combination (essentially the same found in base Grand Cherokees), the 2012 Wrangler will average up to 21 mpg.  This will also be the first time the Pentastar gets matched with a manual transmission: the German produced six speed.

Refusing to blend-in with a modern world, the Wrangler is still a forever capable, off-road machine.  Available with a 4.10 rear axle ratio, Dana 44 and Dana 44 front and rear axles, Rock-Trac NV241 two-speed transfer case with 4.0:1 low range, electric front and rear lockers, front sway bar disconnect and 32 inch all-terrain tires, the Wrangler Rubicon can pretty much travel where ever it pleases.  Add in the new found power and torque of the Pentastar, and the Wrangler can now travel to the trail without getting left behind on the freeway.  Acceleration has improved as 60 mph can now be found in 8.4 seconds.[via : Jeep]