The 2018 Jeep Wrangler's Interior Makes the Old One Look Like Garbage
Jeep has gradually parsed out photos of the 2018 Wrangler over the past couple of weeks, and now we have shots of the new model’s interior. It looks a hell of a lot nicer than the outgoing version, albeit slightly more cluttered with tech. However, the fundamentals remain constant — vertical orientation, passenger grab bar, center-mounted window switches, and circular air vents all persist on the new model.
Compared to the previous generation, the new Wrangler’s interior is absolutely brimming with interesting trim pieces and digital screens. The dashboard has color-matched plastic and the same goes for the stitching, although that is likely an optional extra. Both the six-speed gear selector and transfer case knob are shrouded by shift boots and the array of buttons appear large and clearly labeled.
While this is almost assuredly a top-trim example, it still makes the old Rubicon interior look like budget-minded trash. That’s major praise, considering there wasn’t really anything terribly upsetting about the old model’s insides. Take a gander for yourself, if you don’t believe us.
2018 Jeep Wrangler
2017 Wrangler Rubicon Recon
It’s downright opulent, while keeping a utilitarian bent. Fiat Chrysler Automobiles has managed to update the Jeep’s cabin dramatically without making it gimmicky or sacrificing the vehicle’s overall rugged persona. The manufacturer says it’s using high-quality materials to bolster the off-roader’s “versatility and comfort.”
We’re excited to see if it feels as good as it looks, but won’t have the opportunity until November 29th, when the 2018 Wrangler goes on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show. There’s room to be optimistic on this one, though. The Wrangler’s evolution appears to be heading in a direction we can live with.
[Images: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles]
A staunch consumer advocate tracking industry trends and regulation. Before joining TTAC, Matt spent a decade working for marketing and research firms based in NYC. Clients included several of the world’s largest automakers, global tire brands, and aftermarket part suppliers. Dissatisfied with the corporate world and resentful of having to wear suits everyday, he pivoted to writing about cars. Since then, that man has become an ardent supporter of the right-to-repair movement, been interviewed on the auto industry by national radio broadcasts, driven more rental cars than anyone ever should, participated in amateur rallying events, and received the requisite minimum training as sanctioned by the SCCA. Handy with a wrench, Matt grew up surrounded by Detroit auto workers and managed to get a pizza delivery job before he was legally eligible. He later found himself driving box trucks through Manhattan, guaranteeing future sympathy for actual truckers. He continues to conduct research pertaining to the automotive sector as an independent contractor and has since moved back to his native Michigan, closer to where the cars are born. A contrarian, Matt claims to prefer understeer — stating that front and all-wheel drive vehicles cater best to his driving style.
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Definitely marketed towards the fairer half. The interior will be much more accommodating on the way to Costco and Starbucks. Who designed the shifters, StagShop?
I'm not sure I like the t-case shifter this tall. It almost matches the gear stick.