Just a few weeks back we had our first clear look at the new 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL, the next generation of the iconic Jeep SUV. Today, we have an even better look at the new Wrangler, as it is captured running on public roads.

Although this prototype Wrangler JL is still heavily camouflaged, this four-door Unlimited version of the new Jeep was only a few feet away from photographers when it was caught in action.

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Gallery: 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL Prototypes

Our First Look at the Next-Gen Jeep Wrangler

Much like the first version we saw a few weeks back, it’s clear the new Wrangler is sporting a windshield that is less vertical than the previous JK model for a sleeker, more aerodynamic profile. It’s also clear the next-gen Wrangler won’t be a sea change in design - more of a evolution of the previous design. Spy photographers capturing the new Wrangler pointed out the Wrangler will retain a similar exterior door hinge design like the JK models. It’s also clear the JL will retain a similar rugged look thanks to the door cut lines that aren't much different from the JK.

The camouflage hides the Wrangler design cues well, but a slip of the material reveals a similar roof design like the JK, and we have a clear look at the mirror design used on the new Wrangler in spite of the bulky disguise trying to hide the mirrors underneath.

Although the front end is well concealed, it looks as though there is new lighting near the front of the outer wheel arches - possibly new LEDs to modernize the JL slightly. The taillights are hard to differentiate on this prototype from the prior generation, and at least on this test model they don’t look anything like the X-style Renegade lights we’ve seen suggested for the next-gen Wrangler.

There’s plenty of speculation regarding the new Wrangler, including talk of a four-cylinder turbocharged engine, a hybrid, and a diesel power plant, and there have been widespread reports that the Wrangler will also benefit from weight savings. FCA has yet to comment on these topics formally (though we do believe at least the diesel, likely the same 3.0-liter found on the Grand Cherokee and Ram Ecodiesel, will be an option on the JL), but we can clearly see that the next-generation Wrangler appears to be an evolution in design from the previous one and not a complete departure its current configuration (i.e.: independent front suspension does not look to be in the cards, much to the delight of most off-roaders).

MORE 2018 JEEP WRANGLER
Gallery: 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL Prototypes

Our First Look at the Next-Gen Jeep Wrangler