To fold or not to fold.
For many Jeep Wrangler owners over the years, the answer to this question was either a resounding no, or simply just way too time consuming for the payoff. And as each Wrangler generation came to market, it seemed like Jeep engineers made the whole process more and more difficult to accomplish. So much so that these days it appears only the heartiest of off-road warriors, who really require an open air trail experience to accomplish their goals, bother to take the time.
So, when Jeep announced a new generation Wrangler would arrive for the 2018 model year, pretty much everyone invested in the brand figured the vehicle's windshield folding days were over - especially since the first round of spy photos showed a raked back frame with glass-mounted rear view mirror.
But thanks to a bevy of new spy photos popping up over the weekend, industry onlookers now believe something else about that windshield.
It's going to fold down. And it appears the process will be quite a bit easier than previous Wrangler editions.
"It's very, very important that we stay true to what Wrangler has been and always will be," said Jeep head Mike Manley recently in an interview with TFLCar. "We get this opportunity to really update Wrangler and make sure that we take it well into the future. Everybody should not expect the capability to be diminished at all."
The most recent shots show off (among other things) a different windshield hinge set up, a rear view mirror no longer attached to the windshield glass, and integrated A-pillar handles that could be part of the fold down process. These handles look to be attached to an inner frame that somehow connects to the outer glass frame. By disengaging the outer frame, riders would be able to easily lower the windshield.
Why is this important? Well for most people, besides keeping an old Jeep tradition alive, it offers an extra-cool factor that other vehicles cannot accomplish. With the top and doors off, and now an easier way to lower the windshield, anyone owning a JL Wrangler would be able to enjoy a full open-air experience if they choose. Sure, you can't go very fast, but it definitely makes for a unique ride. Keep in mind you should check your local or state regulations regarding driving with an equipped, but folded down, windshield. Plus, you and your passengers will definitely need some kind of eye protection.
For those into off-road adventuring, folding down the windshield offers even more utility. It can (among other things) prevent windshield damage, keep the cabin free of dust, and provide better sight lines while navigating challenging terrain - not to mention an easier way to communicate with a spotter while on a more difficult obstacles.
Jeep originally made a front folding windshield to allow soldiers to shoot from the seats, as well as provide more room to carry any wounded personnel. This feature also translated well to the civilian market, making it easier for farmers, field workers, and those in related industries to perform their jobs. While others were able to find utility for this folding option over the years, 'to fold or not to fold' certainly became a more difficult question in recent times. One thing seems to be clear, though. Jeep looks intent on simplifying that feature when the new Wrangler begins production later this year.
You can catch up with more new JL photos on JL Wrangler Forums.
