Jeep Wrangler facelift 2024: what to expect from Australia’s next new 4×4

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Changes are looming for Jeep’s iconic Wrangler four-wheel drive with the off-roader soon to undergo a suite of updates for 2024 including new tech, bolstered features, safety improvements, and a new four-cylinder engine to replace the current V6.

However, aside from confirming the new powertrain and detailing updated specs for the tweaked lineup which will arrive in dealers from April 2024, prices have not yet been announced by the brand.

Here’s what we can expect to see in 2024 for the venerable off-roader. 

New engine and improvements to fuel economy

Headlining the upcoming changes to the Wrangler is its new 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder, which is set to deliver 200kW and 400Nm. 

Power outputs are down marginally while torque has improved compared to the current 3.6-litre naturally-aspirated ‘Pentastar’ V6 petrol, which delivers 209kW and 347Nm. 

Notably, Jeep says that the new engine will deliver power at a lower RPM along with “greater fuel efficiency”, while also maintaining the same towing capacity as the V6.

It follows a bit of a trend among hardcore off-roaders as of late, with Toyota recently updating the Land Cruiser 70 Series line-up to include a 2.8L four-cylinder option (alongside the V8) citing similar benefits to downsizing.  

We can expect to see the same changes flow through to the Jeep Gladiator pick-up which shares the same powertrains with the Wrangler, and improvements to fuel-efficiency will be welcomed for both nameplates.

When we road tested the Wrangler’s Gladiator sibling earlier this year, we returned a sizeable 15L/100km urban fuel consumption figure on low-alcohol 91-octane fuel on the V6’s thriftiest day.

While no claimed fuel efficiency figures have yet been quoted in Australia, claimed consumption figures in the US suggest that the four-cylinder is around 10% more fuel efficient than the outgoing V6.

While a more fuel efficient engine is an attractive prospect, those in hope of a diversified powertrain lineup will likely be disappointed. A 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 available on the Wrangler in the US (which never came to Australia) is also set for discontinuation by 2024, meaning that a diesel powertrain option is off the cards for the down-sized displacement Wrangler.

Tweaked lineup with more tech and features

Jeep will maintain a four-grade lineup for the Wrangler, albeit with a few tweaks with a new Sport S 4DR base variant replacing the current Night Eagle.

An Overland 4DR and Rubicon 2DR and 4DR will then complete the line-up, which gains new features and tech, as well as subtle styling tweaks including a new front grille and wheel designs across the range. 

From a safety perspective, side curtain airbags have been added across all models as well as a rear-seat reminder in four-door variants. 

Changes to amenities included front power seats for the Overland and 4DR Rubicon and nappa leather seats for the Rubicon.

Tech is also bolstered for the new Wrangler with a 12.3-inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen media system now standard across the range. Jeep says that hands-free voice recognition is also now standard across all models, along with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

Continued off-road focus

In terms of its off-road credentials, all variants receive Dana solid front and rear axles, a two-speed transfer case, traction control, and four skid plates. The top-spec Rubicon gains a HD Dana 44 full-float rear axle and standard front TrailCam.

Sport S and Overland models receive a Selec-Trac 4×4 system, which is set to provide automatic 2WD and 4WD transitions based on conditions, while the Rubicon will come standard with a Rock-Trac 4×4 system that will offer a 4:1 low-gear ratio, Tru-Lok electronic locking front and rear differentials, and an electronic front sway bar disconnect.

In addition to this, Jeep says they have moved the Wrangler’s antenna to the windshield glass to streamline the appearance and prevent it being snagged on trail-runs.

What does the 2024 Wrangler include in each grade?

Sport S features:

• 2.0L four-cylinder turbo petrol engine
• New front grille
• New design 17” wheels
• Antenna relocation to windshield
• Front “Gorilla Glass” windshield
• Side curtain airbags
• Rear seat reminder
• 12.3-Inch Uconnect 5 touchscreen
• NVH Improvements
• Ambient LED interior lighting
• Nexen Roadian A/T tyres
• Fabric dash panel
• Heated front seats
• Heated steering wheel
• 240-Amp alternator
• Auto high beam headlamps
• Normal duty suspension

Overland adds:

• New design 18” wheels
• Anti-spin DANA M220 rear axle
• Front 12-way power seats
• Black side mirrors
• Premium McKinley seats
• Hard seat back panel
• Soft spare tyre cover

Rubicon adds:

• New design 17” wheels
• Performance suspension
• Locking front and rear differentials
• Disconnecting sway bars
• HD Dana 44 full-float rear axle
• Acoustic laminated front door glass
• Driver 12-way power seat (2DR)
• Nappa leather seats
• Forward facing TrailCam
• Premium wrapped dash panel

In terms of available options, premium paint is available across the range, with 18-inch alloys available on the Overland, and a one-touch power top available on the Overland and Rubicon 4DR.