Across the 2024 Wrangler lineup, buyers have a choice between four powertrains, including the best-selling plug-in hybrid in the USA in the form of the Wrangler 4xe, which we review separately. Feeding into the idea that Jeep owners need to choose what suits them best, the automaker provides a choice for gas models, starting with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 with 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque; this V6 is standard on the base Sport trim. The next available engine for the Jeep Wrangler is a 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine that makes 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. For the most impressive specs, however, there is a 6.4-liter V8 that makes 470 hp and 470 lb-ft. While the four-cylinder and V8 are mated to an eight-speed automatic, the V6 is available with both an automatic and a six-speed manual.
While all options do well both on and off road, it’s the powerful V8 that takes the cake. With 75% of its torque available from just above idle speed, it can send the Jeep Wrangler from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds, which is much faster than this SUV has any real need to go. With standard four-wheel drive, all models in the lineup are trail-rated and come with Dana solid front and rear axles, traction control, four-wheel disc brakes, and skid plates to ensure regular adventuring off-road. With four advanced 4×4 systems, including Command-Trac, Rock Trac (part-time and full-time) and Select-Trac, a water fording capacity of up to 34 inches, and an available 100:1 craw ratio, there Wrangler can pretty much go anywhere.
Of course, the Rubicon models are the ones to choose if you’re buying to get away from the city, and they come equipped with an electronic front sway-bar disconnect, front- and rear-axle lockers, and 33-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain rubber. The big news for 2024 is that Rubicon models now come with a full-float Dana rear axle to make it easier to upsize tires. A Warn winch can also be specified with up to 8,000 lbs load capacity. As if that wasn’t badass enough, Rubicons can still tow up to 5,000 lbs too, when properly equipped.
There’s also a new Rubicon X model for 2024, which is a little more premium than the base Rubicon, and it includes a full-time Rock-Trac transfer case, steel bumpers, and the Xtreme 35 package with beadlock-capable wheels and 35-inch BFGoodrich all-terrain tires.
