Presentation Jeep Wrangler 2018 and Jeep Cherokee 2018: we tested their full potential in Girona

Renewing the Jeep Wrangler is no easy task. An icon of the 4×4 world, when it gets an update, it must combine progress with the essence of a model that, year after year, has been a benchmark around the world. Well, after testing it at its national presentation in Girona, I can say that the changes suit it so well that the brand itself describes it as Jeep Wrangler, the most capable in its history.

New engines, well-judged styling changes and a new on-road ride to create a Wrangler that improves its off-road prowess while also being more comfortable and complying with the new emissions regulations. Want to see what it can do?

New design with the same essence

On the outside, the changes to the new Jeep Wrangler 2018 are minor but very well judged, giving a sense of renewal without losing its own essence. The front headlights feature a new design (with LED technology), with a new position for the daytime running lights, and the rear lights also use LED technology. The traditional Wrangler roofs are joined by a new one which, although it is a rigid removable top, allows the electric operation of a soft canvas roof (very practical).

Where the changes are really noticeable and improve considerably is in the interior, with a dashboard that keeps the base of the traditional design but with new materials (leather depending on the version) and the new 8.4-inch touchscreen that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The instrument cluster now features a digital display, and there are various motifs around the cabin that recall the Jeep Willys. Sound insulation inside is also noticeably better; however, it remains fully removable (roof, doors and even the windscreen).

New engines: four-cylinder petrol and diesel units adapted to the new European regulations

Another major novelty of the Jeep Wrangler 2018 is the completely renewed engine range. In diesel, a new 2.2 Multijet II producing 200 CV appears (with performance similar to the old 2.8 CRD) but with much lower consumption and emissions. This block, built entirely in aluminium, is paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox with a specific configuration for off-road use.

In petrol, the only engine will be a two-litre four-cylinder producing 272 CV, with a maximum torque of 400 Nm, also paired with the eight-speed automatic. And the future holds a plug-in hybrid Wrangler, as the brand’s managers announced: in 2020 there will be a plug-in hybrid Jeep Wrangler.

Off-road: The most capable Jeep Wrangler

What does not change is its off-road capability. The Wrangler is, after all, a benchmark for off-road ability worldwide, and in this new generation that capability not only remains but is improved to levels the brand has never reached before.

The Wrangler 2018 features two four-wheel-drive systems: Command-Trac, on the Sport and Sahara trim levels, and Rock-Trac, standard on the Rubicon.

The Rubicon’s off-road capability is improved thanks to the Rock-Trac 4×4 system, with a two-speed transfer case with a low-range gear ratio of 4.0:1, latest-generation Dana 44 Heavy-duty front and rear axles, and Tru-Lok electric locking of the front and rear axles to tackle any type of terrain. And as the icing on the cake, the anti-roll bar can be electronically disconnected to gain greater articulation or suspension travel.

During the track test we were able to verify that the Wrangler keeps its off-road capabilities intact and even improves them, whatever the type of terrain, with off-road abilities that make it a species in extinction, having very few rivals with similar aptitudes.

Jeep Cherokee 2018: an interesting update with more equipment

The Jeep Cherokee has been part of the American brand for more than 44 years; it could be considered one of the first SUVs, long before they were fashionable and every brand had a crossover-styled model in its range. The new Cherokee has received an update that brings it up to date, with a new exterior design, a new diesel engine and more standard equipment.

The most significant changes are at the front of the Cherokee, which takes its styling cues from the Grand Cherokee and loses its headlights in three zones in favour of a more harmonious and contemporary design. The front headlights now feature full-LED technology and the bumper has been redesigned, while the rear lights also get LED updates.

Inside, the most notable thing is the use of new, higher-quality materials, as well as the new 8.4-inch touchscreen of the UConnect system. It also debuts new upholstery, and the seats come with heating and ventilation as standard (let’s see if other premium brands take note of this very practical equipment with leather seats).

In the engine range it is available with a renewed 2.2 Multijet II diesel engine with 195 CV, paired with the new nine-speed automatic gearbox. A petrol version with the 2.0-litre direct-injection engine producing 270 CV will also arrive in 2019.

In our first contact with the diesel Cherokee, the high level of comfort of the engine and the car was evident: it is well insulated and rides smoothly over all types of terrain, though with a more SUV-oriented character than its siblings.

More technology for the Jeep Cherokee 2018, all standard

Like its siblings in the range, the Jeep Cherokee 2018 comes with a complete standard equipment list of driver-assistance systems, which is essential nowadays as it improves the car’s safety. As standard, the Cherokee features Forward Collision Warning-Plus with emergency braking and pedestrian detection, Advanced Brake Control, Adaptive Cruise Control-Plus, the LaneSense Lane Departure Warning-Plus system, Blind Spot Detection with rear cross-path traffic control, a rear-view camera, Active Speed Limiter and eight airbags.

The Jeep Cherokee 2018 is already available at the brand’s dealerships since last September in Longitude, Limited and Overland trims, with a starting price of 44,200 euros. That said, those who want a more radical version off the tarmac will have to wait until 2019 for the Trailhawk.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira and Jeep Spain

Technical specifications of this car

Off-RoadJeep Wrangler2 versions · from 87,750 €