I also saw that article, I think Motor Trend is a little confused on the release date and year of the New Wrangler. All the info. points to a Summer 2017 Release Date, for the 2018 Model year Jeep Wrangler which is the new version. The 2017 Jeep Wrangler would be released in summer of 2016. Of course maybe Jeep has decided to push the release date of the 2017 to mid 2017 as a 2017 model.
In short the 2018 model year is the new model, not the 2017.
I think you are right. MT is off base. All press has been about a 2018 model release in early in 2017 maybe April -May which was then delayed to the more typical August-September of new model years.
Larry P. Vellequette Automotive News September 28, 2015 - 12:01 am ET A pair of Jeep Wrangler powertrain mules caught testing this month show the extended chassis needed to convert the off-roader to an eight-speed automatic transmission from its five-speed gearbox. Visible on the two-door Wrangler and four-door Wrangler Unlimited test vehicles are extensions of about 10 inches in front of the A-pillar to accommodate the longer eight-speed. The mules also show changes in the Wrangler's suspension geometry, including a redesigned rear axle and rear differential, and excluding a rear track bar. The next-generation Wrangler is expected in 2017 for the 2018 model year.
You can clearly see where they lengthened the bodies to fit the 8-speed for testing, but why did they cover the grille? Is there a diesel intercooler in there?
Yup, there's been a bit of discussion over that. I almost wonder if they don't go to the same design as I had on my '95 Geo Tracker (Suzuki Sidekick). The Isuzu Rodeo Sport (Amigo) had a similar design. You can still run a soft top, but the hard top would be a two-piece affair. The best part about that was that the rear windows were sliders (with screens).
Guys, I think that panel is deception. If you look at the current JK/JKU, the one in the photo does not appear to have an increase in the distance between the end of the flare and the front door. After all on a JK/JKU that is where you find the stickers denoting trim and in the case of the unlimited the word "Unlimited".
Agreed. Its not to say it wont change on the new body style, but i think added for confusion.
If the radiator is moved forward 2", the rear axle back 2" (looks like it) with some optimisation of the packaging i am sure 5-6" is achievable without changing propoortions massively.
Read the reports, its to comply with impending roll over legislation for convertibles.
Maybe there would be more chance of keeping the bar if they got rid of the solid axles and the heavy frame.
I am sure fiat want to invest the minimum and retain as many sales as possible, so its unlikely they are changing things just to keep engineers in jobs.
I read the report, but as someone else on here has said, they cant keep the Wrangler a real convertible, but they can make a Chrysler 200 a convertible? Sounds like picking and choosing to me.
All the more reason to vote out these jokers in office. Again like others have said, how can we continue to have motorcycles, if a convertible is to dangerous? As a rider, I accept the responsibility for my actions...
It sounds like the sport bar will just no longer be bolted to the body but rather integrated into the body. The only difference will be that the sport bar would not be easily removed, but this should not affect the Wrangler's ability to be a convertible.
Man I hope you are correct. I have no issues with the sport bar being welded in instead of bolted, but if it adds exterior sheetmetal (like the Sidekick, Amigo or 2nd Gen Broncos) its a no go to me. I was basing my comment on the fact some articles have stated the traditional soft top AND sport bar is gone and its more about removable panels - you know kinda like removable windows.
Is that really the gas tank hanging down that much?
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