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Jeep Wrangler Diesel Coming, Pickup to Be Called Scrambler

From Car and Driver

Photo credit: Chris Doane Automotive and the Manufacturer
Photo credit: Chris Doane Automotive and the Manufacturer

The next-generation Jeep Wrangler doesn’t make its official debut for a few months, but thanks to some leaky seals in Fiat Chrysler’s dealership network, it seems likely that we’ll know most of the important details about it before FCA has a chance to pull off the drape. We’ve seen the exterior, the interior, and already have a good outline of the likely engine lineup. The newest particulars, courtesy of JeepScramblerForum.com, focus on the Wrangler pickup, indicating that it will be named Scrambler, share the Wrangler’s available diesel engine, have removable tops, and use beefed-up axles.

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Scrambler, aside from being a popular style of motorcycle and the name of a weird Subaru concept, was the moniker used on a 1980s Jeep, the CJ-8 long-wheelbase pickup-style version of the CJ-7. According to Jeep Scrambler Forum, Jeep is bringing back the name and copying that formula by building the new JT pickup on an elongated version of the new JL chassis. Obtained CAD images show the pickup frame to be nearly three feet longer than that of the current four-door Wrangler Unlimited (205 inches versus 172 inches). Leaked images also show the Scrambler with a new Dana 12-bolt differential and axle instead of the current Wrangler’s Dana 44.

Photo credit: Chris Doane Automotive and the Manufacturer
Photo credit: Chris Doane Automotive and the Manufacturer

Sales codes in the dealership network reveal even more information. If we’re to believe the screencaps, we also have confirmation the pickup truck will have three different types of removable tops, just like the regular Wrangler. Buyers will be able to choose among a black three-piece hardtop, a body-color three-piece hardtop, and a black, foldable Sunrider softtop. Finally, the last bit of new information is that the truck will offer the turbo-diesel 3.0-liter V-6 with stop/start that previously was confirmed for the Wrangler. There is no mention, however, of the 3.6-liter V-6 or the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four.

These leaked details come while the Jeep name has been making headlines for a different reason. One of China’s biggest auto manufacturers, Great Wall Motor Company, is reportedly interested in making FCA an offer to buy Jeep, although no contact has been made as of yet. The Wrangler pickup truck expands an already large lineup and should only add to the brand’s desirability.

Photo credit: Chris Doane Automotive and the Manufacturer
Photo credit: Chris Doane Automotive and the Manufacturer

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