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Wrangler2002 Wrangler Rumors
Posted by mike on 2000/3/28 23:00:00 (335) reads



Car & Truck News has an article regarding the future of the the Jeep Wrangler. According to the article, the next-generation Wrangler will be based on the same platform as the upcoming KJ. Here's a snippet:

So far little information has slipped out regarding VJ. I hear it shares a platform with the next generation Cherokee (KJ), and that it will be assembled at DC's new Jeep® plant in Toledo. The Buzz is that it won't be a radical departure from the TJ.

The biggest change will be the retirement of the venerable 4.0 liter inline six. It will be replaced by the Chrysler Group's all new 3.7 liter V6. The new Powertech (Hemi) engine is estimated to put out around 200hp with 225 lb. ft of torque while delivering superior fuels economy.

Another new feature will be a modular top like the one show on the Mountain Biker concept unveiled last fall at SEMA. Similar to the one used on the Icon concept, the top has an integrated roll cage and can be configured in several different ways using easily removed panels (two in the roof, two side panels, upper door panels and a rear hatch).

The article also touches on the topic of whether the next TJ will have independent suspension or not. Be sure to check it out!

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Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Scooter Daddy
here is my comment A new V6, more power, more mileage, great. But this rumor is over a year old now. How about an update? What do I want? An option of a V8 or the diesel as well. Gas is sky high, diesel is 30 cents a gallon cheaper now and a cleaner diesel fuel is coming. I'm planning to buy my archeologist daughter a new jeep this year (no, I wont adopt you) but want to hold off if a new engine is coming latter this year. Update?

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Nick
here is my comment: How can Jeep retire the Wrangler? It's what made Jeep, it still makes Jeep. If they retire the wrangler Jeep will lose a lot of customers.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Theo
I thought turning the Cherokee into an Escape was bad enough. Now DC wants to turn the Wrangler into a
V. Guess this means the Land Rover'll be the only suv with a solid axle (not that I'd ever buy one). And what's wrong with the I-6? Why doesn't Chrysler concentrate their efforts on the Durango? Now thats a vehicle with room for improvement.


Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Steve S.
here is my comment: If this is the road that jeep is taking I'll never buy a new so called wrangler
until they change it back.IFS , no soft top , smooth ride who wants to buy this new jeep my
GRANDMOTHER or some YUPPIE. Hey Chrysler wake up
and stick to what works and what your true wrangler
owners like and want.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Laredog
here is my comment trash the ifs idea and give it dana 44's front and rear in an off road version i'm all for a new more powerful smoother engine (the new v-8 would be great)and a 4 or 5 speed auto would be nice as would factory 33 inch tires don,t ruin the last true do it all vehicle the yuppies already have enough wanna-be fluffmobiles to choose from

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Mike
I like the idea of the new paneled hard-top.
Much more practical & easier to handle taking
off & on.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Rusty
I read somewhere that Jeep was going to
come out with a version of the Wrangler that
would include:
Dana 44s front and rear
Manual locking differentials
More reduction in low range
and a few other items I can't recall.
Does any one have any information regarding
this?

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Stephen P,
In view of the fact that GM recognizes to logic
of the low end torque provided by a straight-six
engine, it makes DCs decision to delete the
4.0 liter in-line six Jeep engine. Jeep/
Wrangler vehicles are best suited for having a
low-RPM/high torque engine capability. With
GMs new 270 HP in-line six cylinder engine,
this should highlight the design logic of such
a drive train for a 4-wheel drive machine. The
Damiler-Chrysler bean counters are in error
by installing a V-6 engine.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Trent
Just put in the Turbo Diesel or keep the inline six and make the new Wrangler look closer to the Icon concept... then make a 4 door model available, that thing would sell good now!

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Louis Farrakhan
Chrysler should understand that to be the leader and an inspiration to many JEEP/ AMERICAN fan/loyalists/potential buyers , they must avoid turning their stable of vehicles into neo-japanese/mobiles-for-everybody-type 0f vehicles. We the elite automobile users who glorify anything that's unique, cool , and American shun any effort of Chryslers to phase-out the JEEP tradition. Screw the international protocol, let us Americans build our JEEPS the way we want, like and should. Long live the JEEP and other American greats.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Matt again....
Hell, lets all pitch in some $$$$ and make our own badass knockoff of Jeeps.... we will keep everything right and will produce the baddest ass offroaders in the world!!! heh heh

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Matt K
sounds like a knockoff of the Icon, if you ask me... the icon isn't far off from the TJ...

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: John
I wish CHrysler would sell their ailing company to Ford/GM so some American can handle all the crap by laid on us by the damn Europeans.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Jeb
Chrsyler should bring back AMC, after all it is they who pioneered, engineered & designed the Kaiser, great pre-99' Grand Cherokee, Cherokee, CJ-models & all other JEEP greats. Chrsyler needs to learn more about TRADITION and MARKET NICHE.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Jerry
If the V6 engine does replace the I-6 then Chrysler is making the BIGGEST mistake in the history of the JEEP. V6 engines are inherently noisier, less refined and develop piston slap much earlier than the I-6 cousins.

My hope is to improve on the existing I-6 by:

1) Offering dual-overhead-camshafts; higher performance potential

2) 5 Valves per cylinder; promotes smooth silky drive

3) Direct-Injection gasoline technology; elevates mpg to new standards in a JEEP/SUV

4) Nicasel-coated bore to extend engine bore life

5) 5-speed Electronic Auto Transmission as standard

6) Front & rear locking differentials

7) Center locking differentials

8) Dashboard redesigned to a more outdoor-oriented accent

9) Offer tough toyota-like seals & drivetrains ( gears, axles,..); cut the leaking crap.


Lastly, i have to agree with Haikall above, please give us a Turbo Diesel Common-rail type engine. Works effortlessly off-road and very economical for daily use. Proven in overseas markets such as Australia & Middle East. GO Turbo-Diesel Common-Rail!!!!

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Haikall
Based on what an insider within Chrysler has confided to me, the next-generation JEEP will have the following as standard:

1) A 3.0 Liter Turbo-Diesel Intercooled Common-Rail Type Engine with dual cam coupled with 5 valves per cylinder ( In-line five ) putting out approximately 396 NM @ 1,800RPM > 200-205 hp @ 4,500RPM


2) Optional NEW! 3-link coil suspension with A-arms for cross-country utility, current 5-link coil set-up AND NEW! all-independent coil set-up for auto-bahn/interstate buffs ( Cool!!! ) .


3) Automatic box is standard with the stick being VERY optional.


4) Body panels will be all-aluminum.

5) Space-frame will be implemented on models with all-independent suspension ( undercarriage consist of some titanium parts )


6) Marketed aggressively in Asia & Europe as the ultimate 4wd in the world ( watchout Ford-Land Rover ) Parts and service will be expanded & made available in markets with 10 units sold a month!!! Corporate commitment on the part of Chrysler-Daimler.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: dave z
here is my comment
This is a sad state of affairs with Jeep opting for the IFS. Jeep once a leader with the most capable line of 4x4s, now will transend into a follower. We want off road machines, solid axles, etc. not Jeeps/SUVs on car platforms!!! If I wanted that I'd buy an Explorer or a Subaru. How depressing!!!

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Chefrkm
here is my comment

First of all, These are the SAME comments that were being said from 1994 to 1996 about the newly redesigned TJ. I have driven a YJ 1994 Sahara for years. I have reciently bought a new TJ. I love it. When pictures of this Jeep were first available and it was availble in showrooms, I was COMPLETELY against this new Jeep calling it the "GIRLIE MANS JEEP". I was against removing the leaf springs and going to Coil, but I really notice the change and enjoy not having my back 'Jammed' everytime I hit a bump. The updated dash and A/C is a great change. I live in the desert and A/C is a must. My 94 had the aftermarket looking A/C and it was terrible. Very loud and not very efficent. The top removal on my 94 was a 15 minute ordeal, but the new top is much easier.
As you can see I changed my view of the 'new' Jeep Wrangler and will probablly have the same negative comments about the 2002 or 2003 Redesigned Jeep Wrangler, but after a few years and getting use to it, I will fall in love all over again with this Jeep.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Savage
here is my comment; Trust Dodge to totally screw up the Jeep. As if the TJ wasn't a bad enough abberation from the real Jeep.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: peppe
the rough ride i6,solid axles,and full frame is what a jeep is all about.Chrysler has used these descendant features as a marketing statement,saying that it is better the competition. why all of a sudden have they decided to ruin an offroad icon when these features are what sets it apart from the rest. it all comes down money,ifs means cheaper assembly and more complexity for the do it yourselfer and this is one jeep lover that isn't buying into it

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: billy bob
the future of jeep looks grim there is no way i would buy a jeep with IFS and keep the 4.0 its not broke SO DONT FIX IT

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Bob
First of all......independent suspension????? NO WAY!!!! BAD IDEA!!!! Second.....the new Wrangler needs a V-8!! When are they gonna listen???

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: AL
here is my comment:

The In-line 6 is great but is a little outdated.
I wouldn't mind an engine that is better on fuel economy and puts out more power. But they should still keep it simple.

More importantly, the Jeep needs a little elbow room. Not much. Just a little more.

The styling is classic. The new wrangler should keep to the classic lines. There are enough Moon Mobiles on the Road.

The new top sounds great. Now you won't have to be torn between a hard top (for practicality, racks and security) and a soft top which is well
the best thing since sliced bread!

Keep Jeepin!

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: J. Lewis
here is my comment: Not so sure the independant suspension is the best idea. that feature was thought to be the best thing going when they came out with the M151 Mutt....it proved to be a soldier killer and was done away with in later models....wish they would look at history!

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Mike
everyone wants a new or more powerful engine right? why not put the 300 hp v6 from the varsity in it the v8 everyone would love but it wouldn't be practical: weight, size, cost, etc.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: greg
here is my comment Hello, in comenting to the upcoming news about Jeep Wrangler, I just think that Chrysler should definitely leave the Body style the same, (this is not going to look good or rugged anymore if they make it look more aerodynamic like a spaceship if you will.) Secondly, I personally believe that a 4.7 litre v-8 will be a nice addition, and become a regular motor on the more loaded models, And keep the 4.0 l on the sport and base models as well just like Amc used to do years ago. Delete the 4 cyl.I dont think it sells enough to justify it personally. I think the true jeep fans who know, will have to decide if they like the new smaller motor for off road use, can it take the abuse and last for years and years like the powerful ones do today! food for thought! thanks, Greg

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Mike
here is my commentSounds good, Motor sounds
awesome, can't wait to see...

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Scott
here is my comment I think getting rid of the 4.0 inline six is a major mistake. If they want to update it fine, maybe a roller cam and lifters. But to go to a v-6? A V-8 would be fun although that's probably overkill. Also leave the solid axle alone.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Ross
here is my comment: If you want to wreck any good 4WD, not just a Wrangler, then head to an IFS. They have already been proven to be an inferior suspension and the current coil is a big winner.
Ah well, can't beat politics and vehicle gurus.

Poster Thread
Anonymous
Posted: 1969/12/31 18:00  Updated: 1969/12/31 18:00
 Originally posted by: Brian Peterson
I think all Jeeps should stay with solid axles. They have been like that since the company started back in the early '40s. I am never going to buy a KJ because they are IFS and ugly. The current XJ is perfect to most people. The TJ is by far the best in its class. The 4.0 Inline Six has more power and will outlast any other engine in the competition. The TJ's coil sprung front and rear suspension make it the best vehicle to use off road. It articulates and give superior strength over IFS. IFS by design is weak and complex, it doesn't ride better the a solid axle when you compare a ford explorer with a WJ the Grand Cherokee will out handle and ride better than most if not all IFS competition. People don't buy a wrangler to have a ride like a Lexus.
I see Jeeps as going down hill big time if the start messing with things that work and work good.
Don't fix it if it isn't broken, leave the solid axle alone.
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