Two years ago, Jeep added the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel engine to the Jeep Wrangler, and now in 2022 our team here at Landmark Dodge thinks it’s one of the best diesel SUVs on the market! There has never been an argument regarding the Wrangler’s capacity for fun or wide-ranging ability to conquer challenging off-road terrain, but always fell short when it came to fuel economy and performance at higher RPMs.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four and 3.6-liter naturally aspirated V6 engines were (and still are) adequate during every boulder-strewn turn, but the addition of the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel clearly was instrumental in a longstanding victory and efficient leap directly into the future. The most fuel-efficient engine a Wrangler has ever boasted also has proven to offer much better performance, and when linked to the excellent mechanical hardware under the skin of the Jeep Wrangler, the combination is a diehard wheeler’s match made in heaven.
Every trim level of the Jeep Wrangler range is offered with the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6, except for the top-level Rubicon 392. This engine produces a maximum of 260 horsepower and cranks out 442 lb-ft of torque. This engine also debuted in the RAM 1500 pickup in 2014, and it is assembled at the FCA Cento Plant in Italy. The EcoDiesel ranks second, just behind the burly 6.4-liter Hemi V8 for torque output, proving once and for all that a 4-wheel drive off-roading vehicle had the potential for satisfying fuel efficiency during these times. A direct face-off regarding the upcoming Bronco is inevitable, and we are confident that the Wrangler will have what it takes to “roar with strength from the canyon” in full-on victory!
The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel delivers a maximum fuel economy of 29 mpg, while the 2.0-liter inline-four and 3.6-liter V6 officially weigh in at 7 mpg lower. A water-cooled VGT turbocharging system and low-friction bearings work fluidly to achieve this goal of efficiency, along with a two-piece oil sump and dual-loop EGR system. The vital effects of EGR are lowering the flame temperature as well as the active oxygen saturation present in the combustion chamber. The EcoDiesel also is the lucky recipient of the modified cylinder head intake port, allowing for greater flow capacity along with low-friction carbon coating on the pins for greatly improved performance.
The Rubicon 392 remains the champion of sorts with its 6.4-liter Hemi V8, but the EcoDiesel balances the optimally-desired performance level with an economical edge. Entering the outdoor exploration automotive landscape in 1986, the Wrangler became popular quickly due to its amazing off-road handling and instantly lovable character. The base level 2023 Wrangler now has 17-inch wheels and comes with fog lights, skid plates, tow hooks, and manually cranked windows along with door locks. The infotainment system is simple to use, and many go-anywhere enthusiasts love its ability to be one of the most customizable models out there.
