The Jeep Wrangler IV Unlimited (JL) Rubicon 2.2 CRDi 4×4 Automatic, produced from August 2018 to December 2020, represents a significant iteration of the iconic Wrangler lineage. Falling within the JL generation, which debuted in 2018, this variant aimed to blend the Wrangler’s legendary off-road capability with improved on-road refinement and a more fuel-efficient diesel powertrain option for European and other international markets. It occupied a mid-to-upper position within the JL Rubicon lineup, offering a balance between performance and economy compared to the gasoline engine options. This model is notable for being one of the first Wranglers to offer a diesel engine in Europe for many years, catering to drivers seeking lower running costs and increased torque for towing and off-road adventures.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Wrangler |
| Generation | Wrangler IV Unlimited (JL) |
| Type | Rubicon 2.2 CRDi (200 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | August, 2018 |
| End of production | December, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.3 l/100 km (22.8 US mpg, 27.4 UK mpg, 9.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 209 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 159 km/h (98.8 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp, 94.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 212.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 93.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 2000 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EBH |
| Engine displacement | 2143 cm3 (130.77 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.73 l (5 US qt | 4.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9.54 l (10.08 US qt | 8.39 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2122 kg (4678.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2630 kg (5798.16 lbs.) |
| Max load | 508 kg (1119.95 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 548 l (19.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1059 l (37.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 82 l (21.66 US gal | 18.04 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 19 l (5.02 US gal | 4.18 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2495 kg (5500.53 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4882 mm (192.2 in.) |
| Width | 1894 mm (74.57 in.) |
| Height | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3008 mm (118.43 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 252 mm (9.92 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 36° |
| Departure angle | 31.4° |
| Ramp-over angle | 20.8° |
| Wading depth | 760 mm (29.92 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front wheels engaged via clutch. |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Rigid axle, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle, Transverse stabilizer, Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 255/75 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the JL Rubicon 2.2 CRDi is the EBH engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged and intercooled, enhancing power output and efficiency. The DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain, with four valves per cylinder, contributes to improved breathing and overall engine performance. The 2.2L diesel produces 200 horsepower at 3500 rpm and a substantial 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque at 2000 rpm. This torque figure is particularly beneficial for off-road driving and towing. Paired with the engine is an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and a wide range of ratios to optimize both on-road cruising and low-speed off-road crawling. The transmission was designed to handle the engine’s torque output and provide a comfortable driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 CRDi automatic powertrain delivers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the gasoline-powered Wranglers. While lacking the outright acceleration of the V6 options, the diesel offers a broader, more usable powerband. The peak torque available from 2000 rpm provides strong pulling power, making it well-suited for towing and navigating challenging terrain. The 8-speed automatic transmission contributes to relaxed highway cruising, with well-spaced gear ratios. However, the automatic transmission can sometimes feel hesitant during quick acceleration, and the overall driving experience is less engaging than with a manual transmission. The added weight of the diesel engine and its associated components does slightly impact handling compared to lighter gasoline models, but the Rubicon’s robust suspension and off-road-focused tuning mitigate this effect.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Rubicon trim level, even with the 2.2 CRDi engine, came standard with a comprehensive suite of off-road equipment. This included heavy-duty Dana 44 axles, a Rock-Trac 4×4 transfer case with a 4:1 low-range gear ratio, electronic sway bar disconnect, and skid plates. Interior features typically included cloth upholstery, air conditioning, a Uconnect infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and various off-road accessories such as a winch and upgraded rock rails. The Rubicon trim was designed for serious off-road enthusiasts, and the 2.2 CRDi variant offered a more economical way to access this capability.
Chassis & Braking
The JL Wrangler Rubicon utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing exceptional durability and off-road capability. The suspension consists of coil springs, rigid axles, and transverse stabilizers both front and rear. The Rubicon benefits from a higher ride height and increased suspension travel compared to other Wrangler trims. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The chassis is designed to withstand significant torsional stress, crucial for navigating challenging off-road obstacles.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.2 CRDi Rubicon received generally positive reviews, particularly in markets where diesel engines are popular. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, strong torque output, and off-road capability. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s relatively modest horsepower compared to the gasoline options and the slightly less engaging driving experience of the automatic transmission. Compared to the 3.6L V6 gasoline engine, the 2.2 CRDi offered significantly better fuel economy but less overall power. Against other diesel-powered SUVs, the Wrangler Rubicon stood out for its unmatched off-road prowess, though it sacrificed some on-road refinement and comfort.
Legacy
The 2.2 CRDi engine in the JL Wrangler Rubicon has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While diesel engines generally require more diligent maintenance than gasoline engines, the EBH engine has demonstrated good durability. On the used car market, these models are sought after by drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and off-road capability. The combination of the Rubicon’s legendary off-road features and the diesel engine’s torque and economy makes it a compelling option for those seeking a versatile and capable vehicle. The JL generation as a whole has significantly improved the Wrangler’s overall refinement and usability, making it a more appealing daily driver while retaining its core off-road DNA.
