With the departure of Carlos Tavares, massive changes to EPA regulations, and easing of CAFE standards, Stellantis has changed course from a heavy focus on electric vehicles back towards gasoline engines. The Hemi is returning to Dodge, along with its SRT division, but there doesn't seem to be a lot of news on what's in store for Jeep. While the JL will likely remain in production until 2028 and significant changes aren't expected, there are still some juicy rumors as to what the futures holds for the 2026 Wrangler.
4xe Powertrain Upgrade
The ZF 8HP80PH plug‑in hybrid transmission is expected to replace the current 8HP75PH in 4xe models. It includes a higher‑power integrated electric motor (~215 hp & 332 lb-ft vs 134 hp & 181 lb-ft today), an upgraded hydraulic system, and a more efficient single power‑shunt pump design.
This upgrade should bring ~31 miles (50 km) of electric only range and allow electric‑only speeds up to ~74 mph (120 km/h) without the gas engine kicking in.
Next‑Generation Turbo I‑4 Engine
The Wrangler is rumored to start using the updated Hurricane 4 EVO 2.0 L turbo‑I4 (Global Medium Engine, GME T4) and eventually replace the Pentastar V6 across all Jeep models.
This updated version produces around 300 horsepower and at least 310 pound-feet of torque, compared to the current 2.0L's 270 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque, in order to better compete with the Ford Bronco's 2.3L EcoBoost engine.
It will debut in the 2026 Grand Cherokee, but its implementation in the Wrangler and Gladiator as a permanent replacement for the Pentastar remains questionable.
Further Improved Steering
The JL has already gone through several steering hardware changes, most notibably the vague aluminum steering box ditched for a tighter, cast iron version in 2021. There are rumors of a more precise, on‑center steering feel via recalibrated steering rack and electronic power‑steering enhancements expected for 2026.
Others speculate a shift to fully electric assist instead of current hybrid‑pump system.
The 392 Final Final Final Edition, 5.7 Gladiator
With the Hemi coming back to Dodge trucks, the massive failure of the Charger EV, and Jeep's Build & Price page website removing the "Final Edition" language from the 392, it's looking more likely the V8 powertrain will survive another year in the Wrangler.
There are also rumors of the 5.7 Hemi becoming available for the Gladiator due to its singular powertrain option and continued lackluster sales.
This thread will get updated as we get closer to 2026 and more rumors and press releases emerge.
