

Chrysler is finally going to address some of the issues that owners and critics have had with the Jeep Wrangler. This summer Chrysler is set to replace the underpowered 3.8L V6 engine with Chrysler’s new 3.6L Pentastar V6. In addition to the much needed new V6, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler will also get a new 5-speed automatic.

Earlier this month the last 3.8L V6 rolled off the line at Chrysler’s Trenton North engine plant, which marks of an engine that was produced for 20 years. The engine was previously used in Chrysler’s minivans and adapted for use in the Wrangler in 2007.

In the current Wrangler, the 3.8L V6 only puts out 202 horsepower and 237 lb-ft. of torque. The engine is mated to either a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Compare this to the 3.6L Pentastar V6 that puts out 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. of torque in the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

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