
The Wrangler has a diesel version. Here is some relevant information about the Wrangler diesel version: 1. Exterior Design: As the first diesel version of the Wrangler introduced to the market, the exterior of this model is largely consistent with the 2014 Sahara four-door version. It features the classic family-style seven-slot grille and round headlights, a wide front bumper, trapezoidal wheel arches, a removable roof and doors, a fold-down windshield, and exposed hinges, showcasing the Wrangler's rugged design. 2. Powertrain: In terms of power, the Wrangler diesel version is equipped with a 2.8TD turbocharged diesel engine, delivering a maximum power output of 200 horsepower (147 kW/3600 rpm) and a maximum torque of 460 N·m/2000 rpm. The official average fuel consumption is only 8.8L/100km. The engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The Wrangler diesel version also features the Command-Trac mechanical part-time four-wheel-drive system with four selectable modes.

I remember the previous-generation Wrangler JK series already launched a diesel version back in 2014, equipped with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine that could unleash a massive torque of 570 Nm, making it particularly powerful when climbing slopes. The new JL series also has a diesel variant now, with the engine upgraded to a 3.0-liter V6 EcoDiesel, horsepower increased to 260, and fuel consumption as low as about 9 liters per 100 km, which is significantly more economical than the gasoline version. However, a diesel version in China can be quite troublesome, usually requiring sourcing through parallel import dealers since official channels rarely introduce them. Another characteristic of diesel versions is the deep, resonant engine sound—out in the wild, it roars like a beast. The downside might be that it takes longer to warm up the engine in winter.

Last year at the Alxa Desert, I came across a U.S.-spec diesel Wrangler. The owner mentioned its significant torque advantage during off-roading, effortlessly climbing 60-degree steep slopes, and achieving over 900 kilometers on a single tank of fuel. Currently, the diesel version of the Wrangler is mainly sold in North America and Europe, equipped with a VM Motori diesel engine developed by the Fiat Group, available in high and low power versions. In fact, the diesel Wrangler has been around since the third generation, with a limited batch imported to China briefly. However, the newer models are hard to come by due to China's National VI emission standards. If you're interested in diesel vehicles, you might want to check the inventory of parallel import dealers, as they occasionally source Middle Eastern or European-spec models.

The Wrangler does indeed have a diesel version, with the most recent generation being the JL series diesel model released in 2020. This version features a 3.0T diesel engine paired with a four-wheel-drive system, achieving a 0-100 km/h acceleration in just over 7 seconds and a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kg, making it particularly practical for towing RVs. In fact, the Wrangler diesel version dates back to the CJ series in 1981, with the JK series officially entering mass production in 2007. The most notable feature of the diesel version is its high torque at low RPMs, delivering peak torque at just 1,500 RPM, giving it a clear advantage over the gasoline version in off-road recovery situations. However, it's relatively rare in the domestic market, with some 4S dealerships accepting orders for the diesel version, though the wait time may exceed six months.

I recently did some research while helping a friend look at cars. The Wrangler diesel version uses an engine with a cast aluminum block and cast iron cylinder liners, which offers better durability than the gasoline version, with an engine lifespan exceeding 400,000 kilometers. Currently, the new models available in North America, such as the Sport and Rubicon series, offer diesel options. However, it's worth noting that were discontinued in some states after 2018 due to emissions regulations. A hidden advantage of the diesel version is its tolerance for lower-quality fuel—regular #0 diesel is sufficient. Off-road enthusiasts in China often prefer searching for used diesel models in places like Inner Mongolia and Xinjiang. The only downside is slightly higher maintenance costs, as the diesel fuel filter needs to be replaced more frequently than in gasoline vehicles.

I've driven the diesel-powered Wrangler Rubicon, and the deep growl during off-roading is particularly thrilling. The engine delivers maximum torque at just 2000 RPM, with almost no tire slippage when rock crawling. The currently available diesel versions include the standard and the extended wheelbase models, both equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Actually, the diesel version is about 100 kg heavier than the gasoline one, with a lower center of gravity for more stable cornering, though it doesn't offer the same strong acceleration push as the gasoline version. Overseas data from the past three years shows that about 15% of Wrangler buyers opt for the diesel version, especially in regions like Australia and the Middle East where it's particularly popular. For those in China considering a purchase, it's advisable to check local diesel vehicle policies first, as some cities have restrictions on yellow-label vehicles which can be quite troublesome.


