2025 Jeep Wrangler Updates
Compared to the original Jeep—you know, the military vehicle—the 2025 Wrangler JL is a spaceship, even though by modern standards, it’s a very old-school vehicle when compared to, say, the Ford Bronco or Toyota 4Runner. However, father time, or at least, father progress, is starting to catch up with the Wrangler, which is finally losing its manual crank-handle windows (as does the 2025 Gladiator, the Wrangler’s de-facto pickup sibling). The good news for anyone yearning for yesteryear is that the manual six-speed transmission is still around; for 2025, it becomes the only transmission choice for the Wrangler’s standard V-6 engine. If you prefer an automatic, you’re upgraded to the Jeep’s optional turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4.
Wrangler JL Features
It’s probably a bit of a reach to state that the Wrangler JL is a stone-age vehicle. It features a modern five-link suspension system, electronic lockers, and nearly as much technology as those two aforementioned competitors. The new JL also comes as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powerplant, something that the 4Runner is only just getting with its i-Force Max hybrid engine—just without the plug-in option—while the Bronco still doesn’t have an electrified version, yet. Moreover, there’s its newly standard 12.3-inch touchscreen that seamlessly connects wirelessly to your smartphone.
Old-School Aesthetic
Nevertheless, the Wrangler’s continued use of live axles front and rear, doors that can easily be removed, and generally simple layout give it that nostalgic feel that made the standard crank windows seem fittingly outdated.
Embracing New Technology
As time moves on, the Jeep’s previously optional power windows and door locks are now standard fare. The cost increase this represents for Jeep is likely more than offset by a streamlined trim structure and reduced build complexity—no more producing different doors for different Wranglers. Fortunately, it won’t make taking the doors off any harder. As with all power-window and power-door-lock Wranglers until now, users must only unclip an electrical connector in addition to the standard unbolting of the hinges.
Transmission Options
The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 now comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission. The automatic option for that engine has been eliminated, meaning those who prefer automatic shifting will need to opt for the turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 engine; the cost for this upgrade is $2,500 on every trim level except for the Sahara, where it’s standard. The plug-in hybrid 4xe and Wrangler 392 models don’t offer the gas-only 2.0-liter, given that one has the plug-in version and the other is equipped with a 6.4-liter Hemi V-8, both retaining their eight-speed automatics.
The 4xe Advantage
The 4xe model blends the 2.0-liter and an electric motor to deliver an impressive 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. However, you won’t be able to opt for it in the stripped-down Sport trim. The 4xe starts at the Sport S and will be available for every trim thereafter—except the Rubicon 392, of course—including the new High Altitude that will become available later this year. Furthermore, it gains an exclusive Black/Mantis Green interior color.
New Color for 2025
This year introduces a new color known as “’41,” an olive drab green that pays homage to the Jeep ’41 Concept of the 2022 Easter Jeep Safari. It’s a fitting tribute to its GP heritage with a factory-applied military-style green body color. This new color joins the existing body colors: Anvil, Black, Bright White, Fathom Blue, Firecracker Red, Granite Crystal, and Hydro Blue.
