The Jeep Wrangler IV Unlimited (JL) Rubicon 2.0 Turbo, produced from August 2019 to April 2023, represents a significant evolution in the iconic Wrangler lineage. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the JL generation, this variant combined a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, aiming to deliver a balance of on-road refinement and the legendary off-road capability Jeep is known for. It slots between the base 3.6L V6 models and the more potent 3.6L V6 and 6.4L V8 Rubicon trims, appealing to buyers seeking improved fuel economy without sacrificing too much performance. The JL generation itself marked a departure from previous Wranglers with the introduction of independent front suspension, enhancing ride quality and handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Wrangler |
| Generation | Wrangler IV Unlimited (JL) |
| Type | Rubicon 2.0 Turbo (270 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2019 |
| End of production | April, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 270 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 135.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 5800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Hurricane |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-scroll turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.73 l (5 US qt | 4.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.4 l (9.93 US qt | 8.27 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2031 kg (4477.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2631 kg (5800.36 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 548 l (19.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1059 l (37.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 81 l (21.4 US gal | 17.82 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 4780 mm (188.19 in.) |
| Width | 1877 mm (73.9 in.) |
| Height | 1868 mm (73.54 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3008 mm (118.43 in.) |
| Front track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Rear track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 742 mm (29.21 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1036 mm (40.79 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 274 mm (10.79 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 43.9° |
| Departure angle | 37° |
| Ramp-over angle | 22.6° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×28 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 342×14 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 285/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Rubicon 2.0 Turbo is the “Hurricane” engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder. This engine, part of the Global Medium Engine (GME) family developed by FCA (now Stellantis), utilizes direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver 270 horsepower and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. The twin-scroll turbo design minimizes turbo lag, providing a more responsive driving experience. The engine features a 10:1 compression ratio and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission (850RE), known for its smooth shifting and wide gear ratio spread. This transmission contributes to both fuel efficiency and improved acceleration. The 850RE is a robust unit designed to handle the torque output of the Hurricane engine and the demands of off-road driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0L Turbo automatic Wrangler Rubicon offers a noticeably different driving experience compared to its V6 counterparts. While lacking the outright power of the 3.6L V6, the turbocharger provides a strong mid-range punch, making it feel surprisingly capable in everyday driving situations. The eight-speed automatic transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, and the gear ratios are well-suited for both on-road cruising and low-speed rock crawling. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 2.0L, the automatic prioritizes ease of use and convenience, but at the expense of some driver engagement. The automatic transmission also contributes to slightly lower fuel economy figures compared to the manual.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Rubicon trim level, even with the 2.0L engine, came standard with a comprehensive suite of off-road equipment. This included heavy-duty Dana 44 axles, a Rock-Trac 4×4 system with a 4:1 low-range gear ratio, electronic sway bar disconnect, and skid plates. Interior features typically included cloth upholstery, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included leather upholstery, a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen, a premium sound system, and various safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection.
Chassis & Braking
The JL Wrangler Rubicon utilizes a fully boxed frame and a solid front and rear axle suspension. The front suspension features coil springs and a stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension also utilizes coil springs and a stabilizer bar. The Rubicon trim benefits from upgraded shocks and enhanced suspension tuning for improved off-road performance. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, providing enhanced stopping power and control in various conditions. The Rubicon’s standard tires are 285/70R17 all-terrain tires, providing excellent grip on both paved and unpaved surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0L Turbo Wrangler Rubicon received mixed reviews. Critics praised its improved fuel economy and responsive engine, but some found it lacked the raw power and character of the V6 models. Compared to the 3.6L V6 Rubicon, the 2.0L offered slightly better fuel economy but less overall performance. The 2.0L was often seen as a good option for buyers who primarily used their Wrangler for daily commuting and occasional off-road adventures, while the V6 models were preferred by those who prioritized maximum performance and towing capacity. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the Hurricane engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Jeep Wrangler JL Rubicon 2.0 Turbo represents a step towards a more fuel-efficient and technologically advanced Wrangler. While it may not have the same iconic status as some of its V6-powered siblings, it offered a compelling alternative for buyers seeking a balance of capability, comfort, and efficiency. On the used car market, these models hold their value well, particularly those in good condition with low mileage. The Hurricane engine’s reputation for reliability and the Rubicon’s legendary off-road prowess continue to make this variant a desirable choice for Wrangler enthusiasts.
