(Photos: Dave Nutting) The next generation of the Jeep Wrangler has been extremely touchy, since all sorts of changes are lined up for the SUV that enthusiasts don’t want changed. Everything from unibodies, independent suspension and a shift of manufacturing location has had the Jeep world all up in arms, but finally, some news that should be good for everyone: Autoblog is reporting that an anonymous source within FCA has confirmed that the 3.0L V6 diesel and 8-speed automatic transmission will make their way into the next Jeep. The turbocharged mill is good for 240hp and 420 ft/lb of torque, and in the much heavier Grand Cherokee we’ve seen near-as-no-difference 30mpg real world fuel mileage. Add in the off-roading capability of a well-geared diesel, which we got to see with the Jeep J8 a couple of years ago, and unless the new Wrangler comes out looking like the new Cherokee, it’s probably safe to relax for the moment.
As an EcoDiesel Ram truck owner, I can say that this engine would be nothing short of awesome in a Wrangler. Let’s just hope FCA doesn’t screw with the styling!!!