The dots are starting to connect, I think this might play into how they're limiting the ways we can 'undress' the Wrangler, compared to the current and previous generations, probably one of many ways to help cut weight and overall to get better MPG's.
Next Jeep Wrangler To Get 300 HP Turbo 4 Hurricane?
Sources have recently told Automotive News that Fiat Chrysler’s new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine could make an appearance in the next gen Jeep Wrangler, also known as the Wrangler JL.
They were told the 2.0-liter aluminum-block engine, named the Hurricane internally, may be able to produce around 300 horsepower thanks to its use of direct fuel-injection, variable valve timing, and a twin-scroll turbocharger.
If this engine is indeed going to show up under the Wrangler JL’s bonnet, what transmission will it be paired with?
Way back in 2014, in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission, FCA revealed their plans to use the ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and CEO Sergio Marchionne himself has made a similar hint. This pairing would significantly increase fuel economy and become the fuel saving engine option in the next generation Wrangler.
Currently, the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 Wrangler paired with a five-speed automatic transmission is able to 285 horsepower with an EPA rating of 17/21 mpg city/highway. The new Wrangler JL will be an improvement in both power and fuel economy.
Once development of the engine is complete, it will most likely be produced in FCA’s Trenton Engine Complex which has been allotted a $75 million investment last month.
