2020 Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel

Jeep has always been about the quest for adventure. There’s now more power fueling that pursuit… with the 2020 Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel.

While not the first Jeep to have a diesel under the hood…. it is the first Wrangler with such power in North America. Here it’s a 260-horsepower version of VM Motori’s now familiar 3.0-liter V-6 turbo-diesel. Jeep says it’s virtually redesigned from the 2nd generation EcoDiesel in the Grand Cherokee, and quite similar to the 2020 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel… with some parts repositioned to accommodate Wrangler’s rugged capability. This third generation Eco-Diesel churns out 442 lb-ft of torque at only 1400-rpm… making it the torquiest Wrangler ever.

“Naturally you have the distinct diesel rumble outside… but it’s a lot quieter in here than you might expect. And there’s a noticeable difference in the torque coming from up there compared to the other engine options. The torque comes on early, steady and strong mile after mile.”

Jeep supplied a fleet of Wrangler Unlimited Rubicons for off-roading in Utah. This diesel’s grunt makes it seem almost invincible for rock crawling. Diesel powered Wrangler’s weigh in at least 330-pounds heavier… depending on the trim and the gas engines they replace. So, engineers retuned the shocks and springs to cushion the extra weight packed on to this dirt devouring dynamo. For now, the EcoDiesel is only being offered in the 4-door Wrangler Unlimited models. The stout engine is matched with an 8-speed automatic.

EPA numbers were not final at the time of our trip… but the same engine in the Ram is rated at 24 miles-per-gallon Combined and Jeep expects a full tank in the Wrangler will take you more than 500-miles. 

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel is certainly up to the challenge adventurous drivers demand. It’s on sale now starting around $38,000.