Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Wrangler |
| Generation | Wrangler IV Unlimited (JL) |
| Type | Sport 3.0 EcoDiesel V6 (260 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | January, 2018 |
| End of production | November, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 123.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.5 kg/Nm, 284.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 260 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 87 Hp/l |
| Torque | 600 Nm @ 1400-2800 rpm (442.54 lb.-ft. @ 1400-2800 rpm) |
| Maximum engine speed | 4600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EXJ |
| Engine displacement | 2987 cm3 (182.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 11.6 l (12.26 US qt | 10.21 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2111 kg (4653.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2626 kg (5789.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 515 kg (1135.38 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 548 l (19.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1059 l (37.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 69 l (18.23 US gal | 15.18 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1588 kg (3500.94 lbs.) |
| Length | 4785 mm (188.39 in.) |
| Width | 1875 mm (73.82 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) | 246 mm (9.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12 m (39.37 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 41.4° |
| Departure angle | 36.1° |
| Ramp-over angle | 20.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). ICE drives rear wheels, front 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, 330×24 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 328×12 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Cone worm with recirculation balls |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 245/75 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
The Jeep Wrangler IV Unlimited (JL) Sport 3.0 EcoDiesel V6 4×4 Automatic, produced from January 2018 to November 2022, represents a significant iteration in the iconic Wrangler lineage. Falling within the JL generation, which debuted in 2018, this variant offered a compelling blend of off-road capability, diesel efficiency, and comfortable practicality. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the broader JL lineup, it catered to buyers seeking the benefits of a diesel engine – namely, strong low-end torque for off-roading and improved fuel economy – without the higher price tag of the Rubicon or Sahara trims. The JL generation marked a substantial leap forward for the Wrangler, incorporating independent front suspension for improved on-road manners while retaining its legendary four-wheel-drive prowess.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Wrangler JL Sport 3.0 EcoDiesel is the EXJ engine, a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel V6. This engine is part of the VM Motori family, an Italian manufacturer specializing in diesel engines, acquired by Fiat (and subsequently Stellantis). The EXJ utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) with an intercooler enhances both power and efficiency by managing boost pressure across the engine’s operating range. The engine produces 260 horsepower at 3600 rpm and a substantial 600 Nm (442.54 lb-ft) of torque between 1400 and 2800 rpm. This broad torque curve is particularly beneficial for off-road driving, providing ample pulling power at low speeds. The engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and contributing to fuel economy. This transmission, developed by ZF, features a wide gear ratio spread to optimize performance and efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.0L EcoDiesel automatic combination in the JL Wrangler delivers a distinctly different driving experience compared to the gasoline-powered variants or those equipped with a manual transmission. The diesel engine’s abundant low-end torque makes it exceptionally capable in off-road situations, allowing for precise control and effortless climbing. On the road, the automatic transmission provides a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. While not as quick as the V6 gasoline engine, the diesel offers ample power for highway cruising and everyday driving. The 8-speed automatic is well-tuned, offering smooth shifts and preventing the engine from feeling strained. The gear ratios are optimized for both fuel efficiency and towing capacity. Compared to the manual transmission, the automatic sacrifices some driver engagement but gains convenience, especially in challenging terrain.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sport trim, even with the diesel engine upgrade, represents the entry point into the JL Wrangler range. Standard features included air conditioning, a five-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera, and basic cloth upholstery. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of off-road use. Optional extras for the Sport trim included features like upgraded infotainment systems with larger touchscreens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a premium sound system, heated front seats, and various off-road packages that added features like rock rails and a limited-slip differential.
Chassis & Braking
The JL Wrangler utilizes a robust body-on-frame construction, providing excellent durability and off-road capability. The front suspension features a multi-link coil spring setup, a significant improvement over the solid front axle found in previous generations, enhancing on-road ride quality and handling. The rear suspension retains a solid axle with coil springs and a transverse stabilizer bar. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The JL’s chassis is designed to articulate effectively over uneven terrain, maximizing traction and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 3.0L EcoDiesel Wrangler JL received generally positive reviews, particularly from buyers prioritizing fuel economy and off-road capability. Critics praised the engine’s torque and efficiency, noting its suitability for towing and long-distance driving. Compared to the 3.6L Pentastar V6 gasoline engine, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, especially in highway driving. However, the diesel engine carried a higher initial cost. Compared to the Rubicon trim, the Sport diesel offered a more affordable entry point into the Wrangler world, sacrificing some of the Rubicon’s more hardcore off-road features like electronic locking differentials and disconnecting sway bars.
Legacy
The EXJ diesel engine in the JL Wrangler has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While diesel engines generally require more diligent maintenance than their gasoline counterparts – including regular diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration – the EXJ has demonstrated good long-term durability. On the used car market, the 3.0L EcoDiesel JL Wranglers hold their value well, appealing to buyers seeking a capable and efficient off-road vehicle. The combination of the diesel engine and automatic transmission remains a popular choice, offering a balance of performance, practicality, and fuel economy that continues to resonate with Wrangler enthusiasts.
