A capacity of 3.6 litres means it’s smaller than the old 3.8 litre motor it replaces, but nevertheless power is up by a massive 40% to 285 bhp (209 kW / 285 PS). Torque has risen too, from 321 Nm (237 lb/ft) to 353 Nm (260 lb/ft).
To go with the updated engine, the previous four-speed automatic transmission has been abandoned in favour of a new five-speed item. As well as having a more refined shifting action, it comes with a lower first gear ratio to help with low-speed off-road driving. Alternatively, a six-speed manual gearbox continues to be offered, and there’s a choice of three axle ratios.
As would be expected given the figures, the revised powertrain results in extra performance. The 0-60 mph sprint now takes a very respectable 8.4 seconds, a 25% improvement on before. But another benefit is slightly better fuel efficiency, as the Wrangler will now achieve up to 21 miles per US gallon (25.2 mpg imperial / 11.2 l/100km).
Given the redesigned interior that appeared for the current model year, other changes for 2012 are understandably limited. The Rubicon versions can now be had with a body-coloured hardtop, but that’s about it.
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Defender gets new engine
Moparized Jeep Wranglers
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