2008 Wrangler Stays True to 2007 Improvements
The Jeep Wrangler JK carried on into the 2008 model year with editions that just about exactly matched the previous year, with the exception of a few slight interior refinements. All vehicles continued to be offered in 2- and 4-door models, with the 4-door Unlimited growing in popularity.
Back for 2008 are all three Wrangler trim level versions in the X, Sahara, and Rubicon. The brand’s base model, Wrangler X, uses a standard four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case for part-time use, front Dana 30 and rear Dana 44 axles, along with curved windshield and better top materials for added noise reduction. Sahara editions include many of the X features, but also added a 7-speaker sound bar, body color fenders, improved seating, larger wheels and stronger monotube shock absorbers for better suspension. The highly off-road capable Wrangler Rubicon gets a heavy-duty four-wheel-drive transfer case with an upgraded 4:1 low-range gear ratio plus heavy-duty front and rear Dana 44 axles, each with a locking differential. Wrangler editions for this model year had an MSRP from $19,505 to $28,065.
A Traditionally Strong Off-road Vehicle
Keeping with its tradition as a tough off-road vehicle, all 2008 Wranglers utilize three underbody skid plates, an available tow package with Dana 44 axles for lower trim levels and an available electronically disconnecting front stabilizer bar for increased ground clearance. All X model Wrangles came with 16” wheels, while Sahara increased to 18” and Rubicon to 17”. The iconic seven-slot grille, clearly separated fenders, soft top and fog lights remained standard on all vehicles. An optional three-panel hardtop incorporated removable sections above driver, front passenger and rear passenger.
A 3.8-liter V-6 engine remains the sole drivetrain for the 2008 Wrangler, producing 202 horsepower and 237 ft-lbs of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard across all trim levels, while a four-speed automatic is optional. Fuel economy was consistent with previous editions at 16/22 city/hwy, depending on model.
The interior sports the only newer features for 2008, with some slightly redesigned dash and door panel sculpting. The thin-spoke steering wheel has a circular hub, and a vertical center control panel features a high-mounted radio with circular air vents. Power windows and door locks round out the vehicle’s interior features.
As well equipped as your 2008 Wrangler is from the factory, there is always room for improvement! You can check out all the available 2008 Jeep Wrangler accessories here.
2008 Jeep Wrangler JK Specifications
Powertrain
| ENGINE | CYLINDERS | HORSEPOWER | TORQUE | FUEL TANK CAPACITY | EPA MILEAGE ESTIMATE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.8L EGH | 6 | 202 hp @ 5,200 RPM | 237 lb/ft @ 4,000 RPM | 18.6 Gal. (2dr), 21.6 Gal. (4dr) | 17 City / 19 Hwy |
Drivetrain & Axles
| MODEL | DRIVETRAIN | TRANSFER CASE | FRONT AXLE | REAR AXLE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| X | 4x4 | NV231 Command-Trac | DANA 30 (181 mm) | DANA 44 (216 mm) |
| Sahara | 4x4 | NV231 Command-Trac | DANA 30 (181 mm) | DANA 44 (216 mm) |
| Rubicon | 4x4 | NV231 Rock-Trac | DANA 44 (216 mm) | DANA 44 (216 mm) |
Weight Capacity
| MODEL | MAXIMUM TOWING | MAXIMUM PAYLOAD | CURB WEIGHT |
|---|---|---|---|
| X | 2000 lbs (2 Door), 3500 lbs (4 Door) | 1000 lbs (2 Door), 1150 lbs (4 Door) | 3760 lbs (2 Door), 4075 lbs (4 Door) |
| Sahara | 2000 lbs (2 Door), 3500 lbs (4 Door) | 1000 lbs (2 Door), 1150 lbs (4 Door) | 3951 lbs (2 Door), 4269 lbs (4 Door) |
| Rubicon | 2000 lbs (2 Door), 3500 lbs (4 Door) | 1000 lbs (2 Door), 1150 lbs (4 Door) | 4104 lbs (2 Door), 4315 lbs (4 Door) |
Transmission
| MODEL | TRANSMISSION | SPLINE |
|---|---|---|
| 42RLE | 4-speed Automatic | 23 OUT |
| NSG370 | 6-speed Manual | 10 IN / 23 OUT |
Exterior Dimensions
| MODEL | LENGTH | BODY WIDTH | BODY HEIGHT | WHEELBASE | GROUND CLEARANCE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| X | 162.9" (2 door), 173.4" (4 door) | 73.7" (2 door), 73.9" (4 door) | 70.9" | 95.4" (2 door), 116" (4 door) | 8.8" (2 door), 8.7" (4 door) |
| Sahara | 162.9" (2 door), 173.4" (4 door) | 73.7" (2 door), 73.9" (4 door) | 72.2" (2 door), 70.9" (4 door) | 95.4" (2 door), 116" (4 door) | 10.1" (2 door), 10.2" (4 door) |
| Rubicon | 163.8" (2 door), 173.4" (4 door) | 73.7" (2 door), 73.9" (4 door) | 72.4" (2 door), 70.9" (4 door) | 95.4" (2 door), 116" (4 door) | 10.2" (2 door), 10.1" (4 door) |
Exterior Paint Color Codes
| MODEL | COLOR CODE |
|---|---|
| Steel Blue | PBM |
| Light Graystone | PDA |
| Red Rock Crystal | PEM |
| Jeep Green | PGJ |
| Rescue Green | PJR |
| Flame Red | PR4 |
| Bright Silver | PS2 |
| Stone White | PW1 |
| Brilliant Black | PXR |
| Detonator Yellow | PYB |
