The next-generation Jeep Wrangler is nearing its debut date and the anticipation is nearing pandemonium. But before its unveiling expected at the 2017 L.A. Auto Show in late November, the sleuths at JLWranglerForums have rendered what they think the two-door Wrangler will look like. Codenamed JL, the 2018 Wrangler won’t be a dramatic departure from the current, 2007-2017 Wrangler JK, but rather an evolution of the iconic design that dates back to the 1941 Willys MB general purpose military vehicle. Nevertheless, the new Jeep will be brimming with updated technology, new powertrains, and tons of user-friendly features.

The Wrangler JL two-door rendering matches up quite well with the camouflaged test mules seen slogging around in different parts of the country. The short-wheelbase Jeep uses all the same design elements as its four-door brother, but with no rear doors. The two-door sill can seat five, though three across in the rear bench is a pinch and getting back there isn’t as easy without dedicated doors. But the plus side: the two-door Wrangler will be the off-roading champ of the JL lineup thanks to its shorter wheelbase (and therefore better break-over angle) and slightly lighter weight. Speaking of weight, a few of the Wrangler’s body panels are expected to be aluminum, though most of the body will be stamped from steel. And of course, the Wrangler will continue to use solid axles at each end, ride on coil springs, and have a body-on-frame construction – just as God intended.

The 2018 Wrangler JL does have a few exterior features worth mentioning. First, the front bumper has a new, more functional design. It might be limited to upper trim levels, but hopefully not. The daytime running lights and turn signals are incorporated into the front fenders. While it looks cool, the aftermarket will have to overcome this when designing stubby fenders for large-diameter tires. The engine bay vent is expected here, as well, nestled neatly behind the front fenders. A strong character line below the windows helps divide the Wrangler’s top and bottom halves. Last but not least, the rear bumper now holds the license plate – a big departure from the body-mounted plate on the CJs and Wranglers that have come before. And of course, those taillights are designed to look like Jerry Cans, a design feature Jeep first incorporated into the Renegade.

So, what do you think of this rendering of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL two-door? Will it be a big success? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

References

Jeep Wrangler

Read our full speculative review on the 2018 Jeep Wrangler.

Read our full review on the current 2017 Jeep Wrangler.

Read more Jeep news.