Jeep Wrangler is a vehicle that many off-roading fans like. However, the power wasn’t always enough and didn’t really fit the name. Fortunately for Jeep Wrangler enthusiasts, the manufacturer has decided to offer V-8 power that will take this car to a new level.
Speaking about the history, Jeep did offer a V-8 many years ago, in 1981 for the CJ. But in 1986 it was replaced with a 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine with 117 hp. Later, Jeep was sold to Chrysler, the 4.2 was replaced with 4.0-liter. In 2007 the new Jeep was given a 3.8-liter engine with 202 hp. The torque went up to 237-pound feet, which was a slight improvement. And in 2012 3.6 liter Pentastar engine was introduced.
For many years, Jeep Wrangler owners hoped that the manufacture will in introduce the V-8 engine. Meanwhile, some of them were replacing 4 and 6 cylinder engines themselves, which is not the best solution and can influence the performance.
Looking at the competitors, such as Ford Bronco, Jeep had to do something about it to be up to par. Many European manufacturers have also been upgrading their vehicles with engines that provided better performance. Recently, the new Ford Bronco has offered a 6-cylinder engine with 310 hp, and it is likely more upgrades will be made. This is a direct competition for Jeep Wrangler.
So, Jeep Wrangler finally introduced the 6.4-liter Hemi – a V8 engine. The new engine is just amazingly powerful. It provides impressive 470 pound-feet of torque and 470 hp. This engine makes Jeep Wrangler a leader in the off-roading class. The acceleration Jeep claims is 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
Some changes are made in the new Jeep Wrangler Rubicon to fit the new engine. It sits two inches higher to fit the Hemi. This also improves clearance. Jeep Rubicon will be able to drive through 2.7 feet of water, which is very important for off-roading. Jeep also installed an electronic sway bar disconnect which helps overcome obstacles such as big rocks.
Not only the Rubicon will get a new engine, but there are some other functional new features. Wrangler offers a hood scoop air induction system and a higher-flowing grille. There is also a tri-level ducting system that will separate air from water, which is especially helpful when crossing rivers or during torrential downpours. There is also eight-speed automatic transmission. The chassis has upgraded frame rails. There are also better brakes for improved performance.
With improving performance Jeep also worked on improving comfort. To be honest, old Jeeps were pretty basic and weren’t luxury vehicles in any sense. Now, the Rubicon has tons of accessories, luxury seats, and new safety systems that take Jeep Wrangler to a new level of comfort. The display is 7-inch and allows you to custom it to your needs. The Rubicon has an Off-Road Plus system with sand and rock modes, which previous Jeep models didn’t have
There are also many aftermarket upgrades for the new Jeep Wrangler. Many Jeep owners want to take suspension and steering to the new level, and with the new Rubicon, they will have the possibility to do that. There are new lighting options, which might be imperative when you are off-roading, especially at night. There are also winches that Jeep owners would want to add to have more safety moving around the rugged roads.
The Rubicon with the new Hemi is definitely a vehicle for off-road enthusiasts. It offers impressive power when you need it but at the same time, it handles on-road conditions well. The new Jeep is available in nine colors – definitely something to choose from. The Rubicon is available with four doors only.