2012 Jeep Wrangler Gains Pentastar V6 and Five-Speed Automatic
The 2012 Jeep Wrangler replaces its 3.8-litre V6 and four-speed automatic with Chrysler’s Pentastar 3.6-litre V6 and a new five-speed auto, delivering more power and improved efficiency.
Jeep’s 2012 Wrangler arrives with a new powertrain, swapping its long-serving 3.8-litre V6 for Chrysler’s 3.6-litre Pentastar V6. The change brings a substantial jump in both power and efficiency, as well as a long-overdue upgrade to the automatic transmission.
The outgoing 3.8-litre V6, rated at 202hp and 237lb-ft, had struggled to keep up with rivals in both output and refinement. The 3.6-litre Pentastar, already used in the Grand Cherokee, brings the Wrangler up to 290hp and 260lb-ft. This closes the gap to other mid-size SUVs and answers long-standing criticism of the Wrangler’s lacklustre performance, especially in heavier four-door Unlimited models.
The new engine is paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, replacing the old four-speed. While some competitors had already moved to six, seven or even eight-speed units, the five-speed represents a step forward for the Wrangler. Jeep says the new gearbox delivers smoother shifts and helps extract more from the Pentastar’s broader torque band.
Performance and efficiency gains
With the new powertrain, the 2012 Wrangler’s fuel economy improves. US figures for the automatic model rise from 15mpg city and 19mpg highway to 16mpg city and 23mpg highway. While these numbers still trail some lighter rivals, they represent a meaningful gain for buyers who use their Wranglers as daily drivers as well as off-roaders.
The upgraded engine and transmission do not reduce the Wrangler’s weight, which remains substantial, especially for the four-door Unlimited, which tips the scales at more than 4,400 pounds. This means outright acceleration still lags behind some competitors, but the extra power and improved gearing help offset the mass during both on-road and off-road use.
What changes for buyers and dealers
For buyers, the 2012 Wrangler’s new powertrain makes it more viable as an everyday vehicle, particularly for those who need the practicality of the Unlimited. The improved fuel economy and power output are likely to boost showroom appeal and could help maintain the Wrangler’s strong resale value in the US SUV market. Dealers benefit from a headline upgrade that is easy to explain and market, especially as the Pentastar engine is already familiar from other Chrysler products.
- 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 standard across all Wrangler models
- Five-speed automatic replaces four-speed across the range
- Manual gearbox remains available
Jeep’s decision to move only to a five-speed automatic, rather than a more advanced multi-speed unit, may seem conservative, but it brings the Wrangler closer to its rivals in terms of driveability and efficiency. The Pentastar V6 is expected to remain the standard engine for the foreseeable future, simplifying the Wrangler’s powertrain offering.
For more on special editions and pricing, see our coverage of the Jeep Wrangler Arctic Edition Priced from €36,850 for Europe.
