We’re getting our first good peek at Jeep’s next-generation Wrangler thanks to a cell phone photo of the alleged 2018 Wrangler JL poster purportedly captured at a Jeep dealership meeting. The images show the front and rear view of the new SUV, along with other future Jeep products, including an updated Cherokee and all-new Grand Wagoneer.

The dark and grainy image shows Jeep hasn’t abandoned the current Wrangler JK’s design, but rather evolved it into a more modern iteration of the classic shape. Clearly visible are the fender-mounted lights, which are likely daytime running lights, and the familiar found headlights and bumper-mounted fog lights. This matches up with spy shots we’ve seen of Wrangler test mules.

Jeeps would incite riots and possible nuclear war should it abandon the seven-slot grille design, so it makes the generational jump. Round headlights are another given. They might even be similar to the new HID headlights offered on the 2017 Wrangler. The bumper appears to be taller and wider, offering greater pedestrian protection. Undoubtedly, the aftermarket will come up with innumerable replacement options.

Out back, the squared-off taillights make a return, but look to have the same X-pattern as the Jeep Renegade’s. The pattern harks back to the Jerry cans used by Jeeps in WWII. The spare tire remained mounted to the tailgate and appears to have the same wheel design as the current Wrangler.

We expect Jeep to officially debut the 2018 Wrangler JL in the coming months, either at the LA Auto Show, or more probable, the Detroit Auto Show. FCA is all about its hometown, after all.

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Why It Matters

The anticipation for the next-generation Wrangler is growing to a fever pitch. Jeep is seeing extremely high sales with the current Wrangler, and it undoubtedly wants to keep that momentum rolling. Thanks to the advent of the four-door Wrangler Unlimited, the Wrangler has seen a dramatic increase in popularity. Now families can have a trail rig that doubles as a daily driver. We fully expect the Wrangler JL to capitalize on this family/fun theme, making the new Wrangler even better at pulling double duty.

What’s more, the Wrangler-based pickup will appeal to those wanting a go-anywhere pickup that’s not the typical mid-size offering. Both pickups and SUVs are selling like crazy these days, so the combination of such, mixed with the iconic look of the Wrangler, should solidify its popularity – even before it has been seen by the public. The two-door version will also make the generational jump, offering better handling off-road thanks to its shorter wheelbase.

The 2018 Wrangler is expected to have a vastly improved interior and driving dynamics, though Jeep has confirmed the Wrangler will continue using solid axles front and rear. Powertrain options are rumored to be expanding. A revised 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 is expected, while the 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V-6 is suspected. Totally new to the Wrangler is a purported 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder that makes at least 300 horsepower. Called the Hurricane, the engine would give Wrangler enthusiasts a new, more efficient powertrain, while not losing any performance. Keep in mind, the Wranglers’ current 3.6-liter V-6 only makes 285 horsepower.

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2018 Jeep Wrangler

Read our full review on the upcoming 2018 Jeep Wrangler here.