Once upon a time, owning a Jeep basically meant only one thing: two doors, four-wheel drive and little else. Thirty years ago, most Wrangler models came with the same stuff. But that’s not the case today. The 2023 Wrangler offers many trim levels, options and configurations. Drivers can specify a Wrangler to fit their exact use cases. Jeep Wrangler engines are among the most essential options to consider. With five powertrains to consider, Jeep offers a crucial choice.
What engines does the Jeep Wrangler have in 2023?
Jeep offers five powertrain options for the . Each has its own strengths and characteristics to consider.
, the 3.6-liter V6 produces 17-20 mpg in the city and 23-25 mpg on the highway. It’s a versatile engine that anchored Jeep’s SUV lineup for a decade.
The 2.0L four-cylinder engine adopts turbocharger
Jeep added a turbocharged four-cylinder option to the Wrangler a few years ago. While somewhat controversial, the move opened up the possibility for greater power and efficiency. Wranglers with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine outperform the 3.6-liter V6 option with 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. However, MotorTrend reports a quicker zero-60 with the less powerful V6. The four-cylinder manages a better city fuel efficiency rating of up to 22 mpg.
The Jeep Wrangler diesel engine is gone after this year
Jeep’s 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 delivers Wrangler’s best fuel efficiency outside of electrification. The unit is rated for up to 22 mpg city and 29 highway, according to MotorTrend. That efficiency also mates with an impressive 422 lb-ft of torque. Unfortunately, Jeep has stated that 2023 will be the last year to get the 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine.
Wrangler 4xe uses plug-in hybrid technology
This powertrain adds an electric motor to assist the turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. Unsurprisingly, efficiency is its specialty, delivering up to 49 mpge using gas and electric. As a plug-in hybrid, the 4xe drive enables pure electric driving range. But it’s not sloppy. MotoTrend reports horsepower ratings of 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque.
392 V8 is all about old-school muscle
Finally, Stallantis heard the cries of Jeep fans and threw a HEMI V8 into the Wrangler. This engine started with Scat Pack versions of Dodge’s Charger and Challenger before moving on to the Grand Cherokee and Wrangler. The HEMI V8 Wrangler offers 470 lb-ft of torque, 470 horsepower and a zero-to-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds. But there’s a cost: It suffers from poor fuel economy ratings at 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway.
How to choose the best Jeep Wrangler engine
Choosing the best Jeep Wrangler engine depends on your success criteria. If you’re looking for an engine that does a little bit of everything, the base 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 is for you. The 2.0-litre turbocharged and 3.0-litre diesel engines offer an excellent balance of power and efficiency. With the plug-in hybrid 4xe powertrain, you get a system that benefits from cutting-edge technology. And, of course, the 392 HEMI V8 maximizes horsepower and enjoyment.
