Engine Smorgasbord for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler, Or…?

Should you expect Ford Fusion levels of engine choice in the next-generation Jeep Wrangler? A new report claims yes, you should.

A source who claims connections at a Fiat Chrysler Automobiles plant has told Jalopnik the upcoming 2018 model will host six engines, but a rational take on the matter would suggest readers not get their hopes up — at least, not in the U.S.

The source’s engine list sounds like the entirety of a vehicle’s global engine range, and it very well could be. In it, the source lists two 3.6-liter Pentastar engines, a 3.0-liter and 2.2-liter diesel, and two versions of a 2.0-liter engine.

So far, the only American engine options we’ve heard of are the stalwart 3.6 liter, a diesel option (likely the existing 3.0-liter unit found in the Grand Cherokee), and a turbocharged 2.0-liter “Hurricane” four with output in the 300-horsepower range.

It’s entirely possible a naturally aspirated or not-quite-as-hot turbo four could appear in overseas markets. Jeep debuted its 2.2-liter MultiJet II engine in mid-2015, with the diesel motor finding a home in the European-market Cherokee. That’s another off-the-shelf option for the folks at FCA.

The twin Pentastar mention intrigues, as it could signal an extra offering for U.S. buyers. FCA reportedly plans to add direct injection to its 3.6-liter V6, with the possibility of a turbocharged option for such vehicles as the 2019 Ram 1500. If this source has his planning details correct, it could mean a much hotter Wrangler variant will become available. Of course, it could also mean FCA plans to soldier on with the old Pentastar in some overseas markets. (Do Russia and Brazil really need direct injection?)

Like other automakers, FCA isn’t in the habit of commenting on future models, and that seems to be the case here. Earlier this year, Jeep boss Mike Manley claimed a hybrid variant is still in the works, though the automaker hasn’t nailed down an exact configuration or timeline for its electrified Wrangler. A pickup version should begin production in late 2019.

The mildly streamlined and lightweighted 2018 Wrangler is expected to start production this November.

[Image: © 2016 Spiedbilde/The Truth About Cars ]