Official Wrangler launch; pickup status by David Zatz on

A Jeep Wrangler pickup is to be unveiled in early 2018, according to Automotive News, which interviewed Jeep chief Mike Manley yesterday.

The 2018 Jeep Wrangler is to be unveiled in the first half of 2017; Mr. Manley told Larry Vellequette that “I’m delighted in the way it’s turning out,” in both styling and function. Aerodynamics, weight, and fuel economy have all been improved (the spy shot above shows an angled front, reshaped fender flares, and a more angled windshield, all in accordance with past reports).

The pickup will not be “stripped-down,” but will live up to Jeep capability standards, according to Mr. Manley.

The timelines are consistent with past reports from Allpar sources. However, a trusted source said JL Wrangler production would not start until November 2017, and should arrive at dealerships in January 2018.

Mr. Manley did not reveal anything about powertrain, but the new Wrangler is expected to have a choice of a four-cylinder turbo engine and an upgraded version of the current V6, hooked up to a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. A diesel has been rumored, most likely a new VM four-cylinder.