2012 Jeep Wrangler to get Pentastar 3.6 V6: report

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By Brett Davis | June 01st, 2011

Rumours from the US suggest that the upcoming 2012 Jeep Wrangler will get Chrysler’s well-received 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine. The engine will replace the current 3.8-litre V6 petrol.

The current V6 isn’t regarded as one of the most refined engines around, with various reviews pointing out a somewhat weak low- to mid-range. Of course it has provided the highly-capable Wrangler with a strong set of performance figures compared with its rivals since 2007, so it’s had a decent run.

Sources from America have reportedly seen ordering documents from Chrysler dealerships outlining the option of the new engine in upcoming model. The package will reportedly be paired with a much-needed five-speed automatic, over the four-speed auto available on the V6 petrol.

If the reports are true, the next Jeep Wrangler will come with around 216kW of power and 352Nm of torque. A significant increase on the current 3.8-litre V6 which produces 146kW and 315Nm. Even though the new engine will be more powerful, average fuel consumption figures of around 12L/100km are expected to remain.

We’ll be sure to keep you updated when these changes will take place, if the reports are true.

bob

Anyone that has purchased the 2011 year model is probably extremely upset at this news.

Y

Not me. The new age Chrysler/FIAT hi-tech quad cam Pentastar engine (hardware revision 1.00 / firmware revision 1.00) that was recently released may turn out to be 50-50 reliable. Only time will tell. I’d rather have an engine with a fewer KWs. But one that has been time tested, especially for offroading.

Paul

The Pentastar had nothing to do with Fiat. Chrysler has been developing the motor for years. I do know it has been tried and tested and is designed to be reliable.
bob

Agree with ya, fantastic for offroad I’m sure. But I’m guessing most people purchase one of these for road purposes too.

I see what you’re saying though…wondering how the new motor deals with the offroad portion. Luckily the chassis is rigid….

Aim

A friend of mine had a 2010 model, It could not corner (properly) maintain a straight line, was struggling on the freeway…

But it could go off road!

Once they change the engine all you need is an ARB after market suspension and you are set!
Save It for the track

A 3.8L with 146kW and 315Nm ???? How old is that 3.8, from the 70′s??

Y

A 8.0 litre truck engine in 2011 produces 150KW. A 1.6 litre Honda buzz box produces 150KW. Commercial vehicle grade vs passenger vehicle grade.

Sam 300TD

Which 1.6lt Honda produces 150kw?

Sam 300TD

Yeah, and curiously the new engine adds heaps of KW and only a hand full of torque… I thought it was the torque that everyone was crying out for?

disc

the 3.8 might be old school but its a realiable engine i personally think its not that underpowered and its pretty good on fuel this is my second 3,8 as i do 180000km in 2years and no dramas with this engine i will definately not be updating to the pentastar it hasnt got that much more torque than the 3.8 i dont think i want an engine that sceams its head off to make power and people have been having some serious dramas with that engine