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The 2026 Wrangler breaks cover: what's new?

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11K views 71 replies 22 participants last post by  Digger84  
#1 ·
Some early leaks about the 2026 Wrangler are out there now. Here's what is being reported?

* More Precise Steering: The 2026 Wrangler will have a more precise on-center feel, recalibrated steering rack, and mechanical and electronic enhancements.

* Improved Sound Insulation: The 2026 Wrangler will feature better door sealing, insulation in the hardtop and wheel wells, and improved materials in soft-top models to reduce outside noise

* Expect new color options like Gobi and Tuscadero, and potentially others

* a new plug-in hybrid powertrain with a more powerful electric motor and improved all-electric range, alongside enhanced technology and safety features

* a new transmission for the hybrid, that is much better integrated with it.

* Uconnect 5 infotainment system with wireless connectivity, a larger touchscreen, and a digital gauge cluster

* a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control

* Exterior Design: Expect a refreshed look with updated LED headlights and a refined seven-slot grille for better aerodynamics while maintaining the iconic Jeep aesthetic.

*80th Anniversary Civilian Jeep Anniversary Edition - details unknown

* 392 Final Edition - last year for the big V8
 
#2 ·
Need a bare bones Jeep and 2 door Gladiator For under 35k.

no amenities…Manual windows etc.
 
owns 2004 Jeep TJ Rubicon
#3 ·
@vanhalo I like your style.
Following the same trend I am searching for conversion adapters for my 2013 Jeep Wrangler to a carbureted Chevy 350 V8 (I'm not a fabricator), automatic transmission and transfer case or adapter. I'll rewire the entire Jeep........ just like the old Jeep conversions but w/ the 4 door JK. I betcha I could have the entire Jeep rewired to not run a PCM or whatever else supporting electronics within a month.

I have no doubt I could achieve upwards of 500+ hp w/ about the same mpg as LS conversions some 10 or 15 thousand dollars cheaper.
 
#12 ·
I was thinking; what a lot of people want is for Stellantis to sell Jeep to GM.
 
#16 · (Edited)
I think the manual transmission will soon be gone to meet emissions/CAFE. Crank windows are being pushed on us by bean counters. They don't leave the option for cheaper configurations and simply upcharge everyone. It becomes the new "basic" level. Just costs us more. That's why you have jeeps that cost over $100k. More soccer mom shit.
Unfortunately, it looks like the minimalist, utility off-road configurations are not profitable enough to sustain a product line.
 
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#17 ·
IF IM VERY LUCKY, I MAY BE IN THE MARKET TO REPLACE MY 2011. ID LIKE TO SEE ALL THE 3.6 RELIABILITY ISSUES FIXEDAND THE STINGRAY COLOR AVAILABLE OTHER THAN THAT I LOVE THE CURRENT JLU WILLYS AND WOULD LOVE TO HAVE A STINGRAY 26 JLU WITH 4.40 OR 4.56 GEARS THAT I COULD EASILY LIFT 2.5" AND RUN 35X12.50'S. BETTER CLOTH SEATS WOULD BE NICE TOO ALSO JEEP NEEDS AC SEATS FOR THE JLS SOLD IN THE SOUTH RATHER THAN HEATED SEATS THAT ARE ONLY USED 5 DAYS A YEAR









'
 
#19 ·
Some early leaks about the 2026 Wrangler are out there now. Here's what is being reported?

* More Precise Steering: The 2026 Wrangler will have a more precise on-center feel, recalibrated steering rack, and mechanical and electronic enhancements.

* Improved Sound Insulation: The 2026 Wrangler will feature better door sealing, insulation in the hardtop and wheel wells, and improved materials in soft-top models to reduce outside noise

* Expect new color options like Gobi and Tuscadero, and potentially others

* a new plug-in hybrid powertrain with a more powerful electric motor and improved all-electric range, alongside enhanced technology and safety features

* a new transmission for the hybrid, that is much better integrated with it.

* Uconnect 5 infotainment system with wireless connectivity, a larger touchscreen, and a digital gauge cluster

* a comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control

* Exterior Design: Expect a refreshed look with updated LED headlights and a refined seven-slot grille for better aerodynamics while maintaining the iconic Jeep aesthetic.

*80th Anniversary Civilian Jeep Anniversary Edition - details unknown

* 392 Final Edition - last year for the big V8
you forgot one thing...it will cost;
Image
 
#26 ·
That and a healthy dose of quality and reliability would be nice. :LOL: Not much chance of that happening. Jeeps never won the award for quality and reliability. Never will, apparently.

I was talking with my brother, a lifelong jeeper. He noted that Jeep really hasn't made their own engines, going way back. They never really had jeep specific engines. In the last 50-60 years they've had Buick, Rambler AMC, Chrysler, and Fiat engines.
 
#21 ·
From Chat GPT

⚙ Hybrid Powertrain Upgrade (4xe)
🔧 Design & Package Enhancements
🛻 Performance & Off-Road
🛡 Safety & Convenience
  • Broader inclusion of ADAS features: forward collision warning, AEB, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping and adaptive cruise allcars-usa.com.
  • Interior comfort upgraded: improved seating, heated & ventilated options, 360° sensors, more USB‑C ports—all trims now more tech-friendly .
📅 Pricing & Release Timeline
🗣 What Jeep Enthusiasts Are Saying
Reddit community notes common expectations:
“My guess is the Wrangler and Gladiator will get the new Gen 4 ZF 8‑speed next year … 215 HP”revolutions2040.com+13reddit.com+13reddit.com+13
“Most Jeep people also want Stellantis to sunset the 3.6 in favor of the Hurricane I6” allcars-usa.com+10reddit.com+10reddit.com+10
So while the 6‑cylinder V6 isn't going completely obsolete yet, fans are seeing the shift towards more efficient 4‑cyl and hybrid setups.
 
#29 ·
This came off Copilot today. Improvements in steering and road noise would be epic, if they happen.


The 2026 Jeep Wrangler is shaping up to be a compelling evolution of the iconic off-roader, with updates that enhance both its rugged capability and everyday comfort. Here’s a breakdown of what’s new:
⚙ Powertrain & Performance
  • Upgraded 4xe Plug-In Hybrid: Now features the ZF 8HP80PH transmission, delivering 215 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque from its electric motor—up from 134 hp and 181 lb-ft2.
  • Improved Electric Range: Up to 31 miles of all-electric driving and speeds up to 74 mph without engaging the gas engine.
  • Last Call for V8: The 392 HEMI V8 (470 hp) returns as a limited edition with special badging and interior accents.
🧭 Off-Road Enhancements
  • Rubicon Trims: Continue to offer locking differentials, disconnecting sway bars, and all-terrain tires.
  • More Precise Steering: Recalibrated steering rack and electronic power assist for better on-road feel.
🎨 Design & Comfort
  • New Colors: Gobi, Tuscadero, and other unique shades join the palette.
  • Improved Sound Insulation: Enhanced door seals, wheel well padding, and active noise cancellation—even on soft-top models.
  • Interior Tech: All models now feature a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
🛡 Safety & Convenience
  • Available features include:
    • Forward collision warning
    • Adaptive cruise control
    • Blind-spot monitoring
    • Rear parking sensors
If you’re eyeing a Wrangler, 2026 might be the sweet spot—especially if you want the final V8 or a more refined hybrid. Want help comparing trims or figuring out which model suits your lifestyle?
 
#32 ·
  • Last Call for V8: The 392 HEMI V8 (470 hp) returns as a limited edition with special badging and interior accents.
that is what they said last year as well. SO those that bought the Final edition? get the screw? jeep is dead to me never touch a new one again. Had one since the 70s. last one is the 2012 jkr i have now and will trail jeep it to the ground and then junk it. i need another 4x4 off road vehicle ill buy a used buggy.
 
#37 ·
Does Jeep have a history of releasing models at a particular event?

Otherwise the LA Auto Show in November seems like a likely date. The Detroit Auto Show is in January, which would be pretty late for a vehicle that is already in market and will be on sale in 2026.

The Jeep JL was originally announced at the L.A. Auto Show on Nov 29, 2017, for instance.

The 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show is scheduled for November 21 through November 30, 2025, at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

Image
 
#39 ·
From chatgpt today:

As of July 2025, here are the expected 2026 Jeep Wrangler changes based on industry sources (not internet forums), including manufacturer trends, supplier data, regulatory expectations, and recent Jeep product cycles:
🔧 Mechanical & Powertrain Updates
  • Plug-in Hybrid (“4xe”) Enhancements: Jeep is expected to further refine the 4xe system for increased electric-only range and improved fuel economy. Targeted EV range may increase from ~22 miles to about 30 miles via software tuning and battery optimization.
  • Turbocharged 2.0L Inline-4: Likely retained with mild tweaks to emissions and efficiency; some reports suggest the V6 may be phased out in some trims.
  • No Diesel Option: The EcoDiesel was already discontinued after 2023 and will not return.
🧠 Technology & Safety
  • Uconnect 5: Standard across all trims with improved processing speed and interface. Larger screen options (up to 12.3") expected to be standard or optional, depending on trim.
  • Advanced Driver Assistance (ADAS): Expect optional Active Driving Assist (hands-on Level 2) for higher trims; standardization of lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and auto emergency braking across more models due to regulatory pressure.
  • Over-the-Air Updates: Expanded OTA functionality for both infotainment and powertrain systems.
🛠 Exterior & Interior Changes
  • Mild Design Refresh: Subtle grille and lighting tweaks likely, building on the 2024 facelift. New LED signature lighting and potentially new color/trim packages.
  • Windshield & Roof Improvements: Continued focus on reducing wind noise and increasing insulation; further streamlining of Freedom Top modularity possible.
🌎 Sustainability & Electrification Push
  • Jeep is heavily promoting its "Zero Emission Freedom" strategy. Expect new branding for electrified models, and possibly expanded charging features like bi-directional charging or trail recharge kits for 4xe.
📦 Trim & Package Adjustments
  • New special editions (e.g. Willys, Rubicon X, or High Altitude variants) may appear or be rebranded.
  • Rubicon trims will likely include more standard off-road gear to compete with the Ford Bronco Raptor and Toyota Land Cruiser.
 
#40 · (Edited)
From chatgpt today:

🌎 Sustainability & Electrification Push
  • Jeep is heavily promoting its "Zero Emission Freedom" strategy. Expect new branding for electrified models, and possibly expanded charging features like bi-directional charging or trail recharge kits for 4xe.
LOL

Hey Stellantis, Biden is no longer president --- you can stop beating that dead EV unicorn already.

📦 Trim & Package Adjustments
  • Rubicon trims will likely include more standard off-road gear to compete with the Ford Bronco Raptor and Toyota Land Cruiser.
Because too much is NEVER enough!