2026 Jeep Wrangler Expert Review

The rugged, capable Wrangler is what a lot of people picture when they hear the word “Jeep,” and for 2026, Jeep offers a Wrangler that pushes the boundaries of performance and efficiency while staying true to the core image of a go-anywhere, four-wheel-drive SUV.

What’s New

The Wrangler got its last big update for 2024, with changes that included a bigger touchscreen and standard wireless phone mirroring, additional off-road and work hardware, and new models and safety features. This year some Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid trims are expected to receive an upgraded powertrain.

This page will be updated with more insights and photos as information becomes available.

What We Think

The Jeep Wrangler remains a top off-road SUV thanks to rugged features like locking differentials, disconnecting anti-roll bars, and advanced suspension. It excels at rockcrawling and overlanding, offering unmatched off-road capability.

Jeep continues to update the Wrangler, too, adding larger screens, more driver assist tech, and a 4xe plug-in hybrid model, while the V-8 Rubicon 392 shows the company still knows how to build old-school off-roaders. A wide range of powertrains, trims, and customization options makes personalization nearly limitless.

The Wrangler isn’t for everyone, though. Poor on-road handling and vague steering make it an unsuitable alternative to more mainstream SUVs. Although it beat the Ford Bronco in MotorTrend’s off-road comparison, it fell short against the more road-friendly Bronco Sport in MT’s budget SUV test.

MotorTrend Tested

Most powertrains carry over from last year. The 4xe plug-in hybrid is rumored to be receiving a more efficient transmission this year that features a stronger electric motor. If that’s true, output should increase.

Every Jeep Wrangler comes standard with four-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission except for models with the 3.6-liter V-6, which also offer a no-cost manual gearbox option.

3.6-Liter V-6

• Transmission: Six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic

• Horsepower/Torque: 285 hp/260 lb-ft

• Efficiency (city/highway): 16–18/22–23 mpg (est.)

• Acceleration (0–60 mph): 6.9 seconds (est.)

2.0-Liter Turbocharged I-4

• Transmission: Eight-speed automatic

• Horsepower/Torque: 270 hp/295 lb-ft

• Efficiency (city/highway): 20/22–23 mpg (est.)

• Acceleration (0–60 mph): 8.0 seconds (est.)

2.0-Liter Turbocharged I-4 + Two Electric Motors

• Transmission: Eight-speed automatic

• Horsepower/Torque: 375 hp/470 lb-ft

• Efficiency (combined): 49 mpg-e (gas+elec); 20 mpg (gas only) (est.)

• Acceleration (0–60 mph): 5.6 seconds

6.4-Liter V-8

• Transmission: Eight-speed automatic

• Horsepower/Torque: 470 hp/470 lb-ft

• Efficiency (city/highway): 13/16 mpg (est.)

• Acceleration (0–60 mph): 4.4 seconds

Safety Features

Available features include:

• Forward collision warning automatic emergency braking
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind-spot monitoring and rear path detection
• Automatic high-beams
• Rear parking sensors

Cargo Space and Interior Room

Not surprisingly, four-door gas models deliver the most cargo capacity in the lineup, with their added length and the absence of a hybrid battery under the floor to compromise cabin space.

Legroom (front/rear)

• 2026 Jeep Wrangler 2-Door: 41.2/35.7 inches
• 2026 Jeep Wrangler 4-Door: 41.2/38.3 inches
• 2026 Jeep Wrangler 4xe: 40.8–41.2/38.2 inches

Cargo Space (seats up/down)

• 2026 Jeep Wrangler 2-Door: 12.9/31.7 cubic feet
• 2026 Jeep Wrangler 4-Door: 31.7/72.4 cubic feet
• 2026 Jeep Wrangler 4xe: 27.7/67.4 cubic feet

Technology

Infotainment

All Wranglers feature a 12.3-inch central touchscreen with Apple CarPlay,Android Auto, and onboard navigation. A single USB port is standard on the base model, but Wranglers can be equipped with up to seven outlets.

Sound System

The lowest trims come with eight speakers standard. A nine-speaker Alpine sound system is also available.

Available Upgrades

Remote start and heated front seats and steering wheel are optional upgrades. Auxiliary switches are unlocked on higher trim levels.

Value

Standard Features

The Wrangler’s iconic Jeep look and true off-road capability are now accompanied by a big touchscreen and available hybrid powertrain.

Recommended Trim

We dig Rubicon models for their serious go-anywhere proficiency. They can be outfitted with all-terrain tires, electronically disconnecting sway bars, locking front and rear axles, and a part-time transfer case, among other hardware.