India-bound 2018 Jeep Wrangler: What to expect

Jeep has revealed the 2018 India-bound Wrangler ahead of the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show. This is the fourth generation of the American automaker’s iconic true and blue off roader and it is also being offered as a lighter door-less and roof-less-version after a long time. We have already spoken in detail about the basic details of the car and in this story we are looking at what to expect from the India-spec car when it is launched here in 2018.

Iconic design
Visually, there will be no changes made on the car for the Indian market as the design is iconic and instantly recognisable. The signature elements will include the seven-slat grille, headlamps, tail lamps and the over boxy design that has defined the vehicle since it was launched in 1987.

Engine options
The current Wrangler is offered with a 2.8-litre diesel or a 3.6-litre V6 petrol. The petrol has been carried over but the 2.8-litre diesel has been replaced with a 3.0-litre diesel which produces 260bhp/600Nm. Both engines will now be offered with an eight-speed AT as well as the whole off-roading package that Jeep has for its vehicles.

Heavy duty off-road capability
This package includes a full-time 4x4 system, two-speed transfer case, low range gearbox and locking differentials. The heavy duty Rubicon model gets an electronic sway bar disconnect system for even better navigation over big obstacles. As far as the visual approach and safety go, this car comes with a heavy duty winch, skid plates and approach angle of 44 degrees, break-over angle of 27.8 degrees, departure angle of 37 degrees and ground clearance of 276mm.

Feature loaded
The cars that will be offered in India will be top-of-the-line CBUs so they get all the options in the Jeep armoury. This lengthy list includes a touchscreen system, button start, digital display for instrument cluster, climate control, leather seats and many bits of shiny plastic to add to the premium factor.

We believe that this new Wrangler will launch here in 2018. Also, the prices may stay roughly the same as the current model to maintain the continuity and the relatively strong numbers that are coming from Jeep’s sales of its CBU models.