Next-Gen Wrangler Rumored to get a 300-Horsepower Four Banger

2016 Jeep Wrangler Backcountry (Credit: © Jeep)

The next-generation Wrangler is scheduled to arrive for the 2018 model year, but FCA has remained relatively mum on it so far. The consensus agrees that the new Wrangler will have a focus on fuel economy, which has been a serious sore spot for the rugged SUV thus far. Today, a new report from Automotive News claims that FCA could be working on a high-output four-banger that’ll help with the miles per gallon without affecting performance.

This new engine, which FCA has codenamed the Hurricane, is rumored to be a 2.0-liter unit that churns out nearly 300 horsepower. The report claims that this engine will carry all the latest fuel-saving and power-enhancing tech bits like direct fuel injection, variable valve timing, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and an aluminum block.

Now, before Wrangler fans lose their mind at the return of a four-cylinder to their favorite SUV, it appears as if this will be an optional powerplant to the standard V-6 unit. Plus, with nearly 300 horsepower and advanced turbocharging, this four-pot should have plenty of torque to handle tossing around this off-road beast. So, this will not be the wheezy four-banger that they remember from previous generations.

The report goes on to claim that this engine will mate to an eight-speed auto transmission that’ll help enhance its fuel economy well beyond the current model’s 17 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.

We’ll continue monitoring this developing story and bring you updates as they become available. Stay tuned for more.