The things in the pickup truck industry are developing fast lately. It is especially hot in mid-size class where many models have been redesigned but more than a few have been announced to come. Even Mercedes plans to offer its version of the pickup truck and there is also Tesla Motors which might build the first all-electric truck. But rumor about Jeep Wrangler based pickup truck has been present since the introduction of the Gladiator Concept in 2005.
However, it has become more than rumor now because Jeep SEO Mike Manley and Fiat Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne have said at the Detroit Auto Show that this pickup truck is actually happening and it will arrive in late 2017. The new 2017 Jeep Wrangler Pickup will be built alongside with new-generation Wrangler which should be larger and more efficient and both models will be produced in Toledo, Ohio. Details about new pickup’s design and power trains are still unclear as it is with next-gen Wrangler but some assumption have been made.
2017 Jeep Wrangler Pickup: Design, Interior
When it comes to the styling of the new 2017 Jeep Wrangler Pickup it is expected that it will heavily be based on the new Wrangler model except it will get pickup’s cargo bed. It will incorporate classic body-on-frame construction but like the new Wrangler model it is expected to get the body intensively built of the aluminum. Aside from that, the model will get some refreshed elements but it will also feature many signature styling cues from the current Wrangler model. It will have slanted hood and it will surly include iconic seven-piece grille and circular headlights. There will also be old-school exterior attached door hinges and familiar shaped fenders. Some sources claim that the Wrangler Pickup will be built in both two and four door versions but other suggest that it will be only available in four-door crew cab configuration. Its cargo bed will be similarly sized as in the current mid-size trucks.
About interior nothing has been said and we can only assume that model will likely retain very similar arrangement as in the current Wrangler model but it will add better materials and upgraded tech. The latest Uconnect infotainment system will likely be served with an 8.4 inch screen in the higher-spec versions while the base models will probably make use of the 5-inch unit. There will also be smartphone compatibility, navigation, strong sound system, leather upholstery option, modern safety gear, etc.
2017 Jeep Wrangler Pickup: Powertrains
Powering the new 2017 Jeep Wrangler Pickup will be the same units that are expected for the new conventional Wrangler model. That means that in order to improve fuel economy the model should include a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine and turbodiesel option. The turbocharged petrol engine should produce around 300 hp but model might also get upgraded current Pentastar V-6 as the base engine. EcoDiesel should be option with power output around 240 hp and torque of 420 pound-feet. Engines will be accompanied with the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission and there will be standard four-wheel drive system.
2017 Jeep Wrangler Pickup: Arrival, Price
The new 2017 Jeep Wrangler Pickup is expected to come in late 2017 may be even as the 2018 model. About the price we can only speculate that it will be around a few thousands above the $30k for its base version.