There may be a more nerve-wracking task for an automotive designer than restyling the Jeep Wrangler, but we’re not sure what it would be.
The stylist, given that assignment, has to make enough of an update to let everyone know they’re looking at the new Jeep while keeping all of the classic details that identify it.
For 2024, Jeep will give its signature product a makeover. It’s not a ground-up redesign. Most of the mechanical details stay the same. But they didn’t phone this one in, either. Park your new 2024 Wrangler next to a 2023 model, and everyone will know it’s new, even from 30 feet away. That’s an impressive feat.
“The 2024 Jeep Wrangler will be available in Sport, Willys, Sahara, High Altitude, Rubicon and Rubicon 392 models,” Jeep says.
Powertrain choices stay the same as 2023, including the Wrangler 4xe that became America’s best-selling plug-in hybrid last year.
A New Grille, but True to Form
The most identifiable part of any Jeep product is the iconic seven-slot grille. Designers found a way to reinvent it for 2024 while keeping the rough sketch of the grille the same.
Jeep tested the look with the 20th Anniversary Edition Wrangler for the 2023 model year but brings it to the whole lineup for 2024. It puts meshwork inside the iconic seven slots and builds their bevels in a color Jeep calls Neutral Gray. “Slimmer both visually and literally, the new grille’s black textured vertical slots improve cooling,” Jeep says.
They also leave room for an 8,000-pound-capacity Warn winch, now a factory option on Rubicon models.
So Many Roof, Door Options
The steel mast antenna is gone, replaced by what Jeep calls a “stealth antenna” integrated into the front windshield. That should protect it from brush impacts on the trail. Jeep offers 10 new wheel designs (good luck choosing).
Choosing your roof and doors won’t be easy, either. Top options include a premium soft-top Jeep says has been improved, two available hardtops (black and body color), an exclusive Sky One-Touch powertop (standard on High Altitude models), and the Sunrider hardtop with its opening panel over the front seats. A dual-door group gives you half-doors you can install yourself for sunny days.
Interior Gets More Refined
Inside, things have gone a bit more upscale. Twelve-way power-adjustable front seats are available, and an all-new instrument panel features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the ability to connect to two mobile phones.
It can store up to five user profiles with custom seat settings, audio preferences, mirror angles, and more. There’s also a valet mode that limits what the driver can adjust.
Safety has been improved with new first- and second-row side curtain airbags. We credit Ford for that one. Jeep finally included them only after the Ford Bronco proved a topless off-roader with side curtains was possible.
Sport S and higher trims get forward collision warning and smart cruise control with the ability to stop the vehicle completely.
Willys Models Get More Ground Clearance, 4xe Versions Get New Trim Levels
The Willys model gets 33-inch tires (replacing the 32-inch rubber of 2023) for some added ground clearance, plus a standard rear locker.
Plug-in hybrid Wrangler 4xe models get a new Power Box with four 120-volt outlets to power external devices in the field.
Two new trim levels appear for the 4xe. A Sport S model may bring the price down slightly. It’s not light on content, however, with “a standard 12.3-inch digital touchscreen, power windows and door locks, adaptive cruise control with stop, forward collision warning, side curtain airbags, remote keyless entry, premium soft-top, 20-inch aluminum wheels and Gorilla glass windshield,” Jeep says.
A Rubicon X 4xe adds niceties like 12-way power-adjustable front seats, a 9-speaker premium Alpine audio system, and Nappa leather upholstery.
Jeep has not revealed pricing details. We’ll bring those when we can.
