Photo: Jeep
Very little is known about the next-generation Jeep Wrangler, which could arrive sometime in 2016, but a new report claims the manufacturer is considering offering it with a power-retractable top.
According to Road & Track, the power top is in the very early stage of development and could become a high-priced niche option for customers who no longer want to deal with manually retracting soft tops or removable hard tops.
The report adds that Jeep is also looking to drop the familiar folding windshield and rear-mounted spare tire. A fixed windshield would improve the Wrangler’s safety, while removing the spare wheel would help reduce weight. The removable doors, however, are likely to be carried over to the next-generation model.
Finally, the source says the Wrangler will get a redesigned frame and will keep its solid axles, although Jeep boss Mike Manley said the crossover could receive an independent suspension system.
“We’re already in an environment where it’s a challenger to produce a vehicle in that way, and it’s going to get harder. What I can tell you is that the vehicle is absolutely fundamental to our DNA, and it’s going to become progressively harder to make sure that the vehicle meets all of the standards that are required for it,” Manley said last October.
Story via Road&Track
The report adds that Jeep is also looking to drop the familiar folding windshield and rear-mounted spare tire. A fixed windshield would improve the Wrangler’s safety, while removing the spare wheel would help reduce weight. The removable doors, however, are likely to be carried over to the next-generation model.
Finally, the source says the Wrangler will get a redesigned frame and will keep its solid axles, although Jeep boss Mike Manley said the crossover could receive an independent suspension system.
“We’re already in an environment where it’s a challenger to produce a vehicle in that way, and it’s going to get harder. What I can tell you is that the vehicle is absolutely fundamental to our DNA, and it’s going to become progressively harder to make sure that the vehicle meets all of the standards that are required for it,” Manley said last October.
Story via Road&Track
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