Torque Reference

The Jeep Wrangler brand enters 2017, one of its last years under the current platform, on a bright design note – specifically bright LED headlights and foglights that now come standard on Sahara and Rubicon models, while optional for Sport and Sport S editions.

Some new option packages, a little styling change to the Sahara model, and several new special editions all mark the 2016 JK Wrangler in one of its final rounds of upgrades before Jeep releases its next-generation Wrangler in 2018.

Improving on its already legendary design, Jeep rolled into 2015 with numerous enhancements for the Wrangler, as well as new packages, features, colors, and special editions.

Two years removed from its last notable update, the Jeep Wrangler rolled into 2014 with some minor changes to its flagship Sport, Sahara and Rubicon designs, but did add several new color options and a host of special edition vehicles.

The iconic Jeep Wrangler has long been distinguished because of its rugged, fun, and distinctive good looks. And for 2013, it also became known for one other thing – comfort.

The legendary Jeep Wrangler entered 2012’s marketplace bearing its generation’s first significant upgrade – an all new 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that pushed out 285hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, as well as an available 5-speed automatic transmission. Both were substantial upgrades over the older 3.8L V6 (205hp) and 4-speed automatic many dubbed as a ‘slushbox’. This new engine, along with stronger lower gear performance, now provided the Wrangler power that many had been asking for since the JK’s inception.

Jeep’s iconic Wrangler celebrated its 70th anniversary for the 2011 model year, and received several interior and exterior cosmetic upgrades designed to add a little refinement to its off-road personality.

For the 2009 model year, Jeep made its first real changes to the JK series by adding several new safety features as well as some cosmetic upgrades. First, the company put in Hill Start Assist (HSA) to help prevent rollback on graded surfaces, and then incorporated Trailer Sway Control (TSC) that monitored vehicle movement while towing, relative to its intended path. If the Wrangler began to sway outside set parameters, its computer would activate the Electronic Stability Program (ESP). A new center dome lamp with directional lighting, drop in center console bin, and cargo nets for additional storage rounded out interior changes.

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.

The Jeep Wrangler received its first major overhaul since 1998, and kicked off 2007 with all new features like shorter grille slats, clearly separated fenders, and fog lights incorporated into the front bumper. The brand also added a curved windshield and better roof integration to the new vehicle, which it said helped reduce interior noise by 20 percent. Calling itself the Wrangler JK, this redesign was also the debut of a 4-door model called the Unlimited, which was over 20-inches longer than the 2-door, and would go on to become extremely popular.