The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic off-road vehicle that has been around for decades.
Over the years, Jeep has offered different engine options in the Wrangler, with the most common choices being the 4 cylinder and 6 cylinder engines. For potential Wrangler buyers trying to decide between these two engines, there are some key factors to consider.
Power and Performance
The most obvious difference between the 4 cylinder and 6 cylinder is horsepower and torque output. Here is a comparison of some key engine specs:
| Engine | Displacement | Horsepower | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 4 Cylinder | 2.5 L | 120-180 hp | 140-165 lb-ft |
| 3.6L V6 Pentastar | 3.6 L | 285-305 hp | 260-270 lb-ft |
As the numbers show, the V6 Pentastar engine offers significantly more horsepower and torque compared to the 4 cylinder. This translates to much better acceleration and towing capacity with the V6. However, the turbocharged 2.0L 4 cylinder available in newer Wrangler models offers 270 lb-ft of torque, which helps close the gap somewhat.
In general though, the V6 is the clear winner when it comes to power and performance. The abundant low-end torque allows the Wrangler to conquer tough off-road terrain with ease.
Fuel Economy
While the V6 makes more power, it does come at the expense of fuel economy compared to the 4 cylinder:
| Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5L 4 Cylinder | 19-21 | 23-25 |
| 3.6L V6 Pentastar | 16-18 | 20-22 |
The 4 cylinder edges out the V6 by 3-5 mpg in city and highway driving. Over years of ownership, the better fuel efficiency can lead to significant savings at the pump. However, the gap has narrowed with the turbo 2.0L 4 cylinder, which gets 21 city / 24 highway.
If fuel economy is a top priority, the 4 cylinder is the way to go. But the V6 only gives up 4-5 mpg while offering much stronger performance.
Reliability and Durability
This is where the V6 really shines. The 3.6L Pentastar engine has been in production for over a decade, powering numerous Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep vehicles. It has proven to be a very solid and reliable engine.
The 4 cylinder does not have as long of a track record in Wrangler models. Issues like oil leaks and burning oil have plagued some 4 cylinder models. While the newer 2.0L turbo engine has been fairly reliable so far, it doesn’t have the long history of the 3.6L V6 yet.
For those looking to keep their Wrangle for many years and high mileage, the proven reliability of the V6 makes it the recommended choice.
Cost
MSRP for the V6 is only $1000-1500 more than the base 4 cylinder in Wrangler models. Considering the huge gains in performance and capability, the extra cost is well worth it for most buyers. Even on the used market, V6 models tend to command more money and retain value better long-term.
While gasoline does cost slightly more due to lower fuel economy, the V6 has cheaper maintenance costs over the long run. Timing chains instead of belts, less complexity, and time-tested design lead to lower repair bills down the road.
Off-Road Ability
The abundant low-rpm torque and power of the V6 delivers excellent off-road capability right from the factory. The 4 cylinder models often need significant modifications to achieve the same level of performance. Simply put, the V6 can more easily conquer demanding trails and technical terrain.
That said, a built 4 cylinder with lift kit, tires, re-gearing etc can still become very capable in the hands of an experienced off-road driver. But it takes more modifications to match the impressive ability of the V6 Wrangler. For primarily off-road use, the V6 provides a great starting point.
Driveability
The V6 once again outshines the 4 cylinder when it comes to everyday driveability and comfort. The effortless torque allows the V6 to feel much more refined during acceleration and highway cruising. Passing power is greatly improved with the V6 as well.
Meanwhile, 4 cylinder models often feel underpowered and struggle during uphill climbs or while loaded down with gear. The 4 cylinder requires working the powertrain harder during routine driving. V6 models simply drive nicer with less effort required by the driver.
My Experience and Recommendation
Having owned both 4 cylinder and 6 cylinder Wranglers, I strongly recommend opting for the V6 if it fits in your budget.
The abundant low-end torque, throaty exhaust note, and proven durability of the 3.6L V6 makes it a perfect match for the capabilities of the Wrangler platform. While the 4 cylinder gets better fuel economy, the performance trade-off is too drastic in my opinion. Especially considering that real-world MPG often ends up being quite similar with the added weight of larger off-road tires.
In my experience, the effortless power of the V6 paired with 4WD makes easy work of even challenging off-road trails. Meanwhile my 4 cylinder required constant gear changing and working the engine hard, which grew tiring quickly. And even with re-gearing, the 4 cylinder struggled on steep trails compared to the barely-breathing V6.
The reliability and lower cost of long-term maintenance is yet another big advantage of the V6. After 100,000+ miles of trouble-free operation, I feel very confident in the proven V6 design going strong for years to come.
So for shoppers on the fence, I suggest stretching your budget to get the V6 engine if possible. While the 4 cylinder Wrangler can still be capable in the right hands, the V6 offers a level of all-around performance and capability that better realizes the full potential of this iconic platform. The extra upfront cost pays for itself quickly with the daily enjoyment and capabilities that only the V6 can provide. You won’t regret opting for those extra two cylinders!
Conclusion
In the end, there are good reasons why the V6 engine is much more popular in Wrangler models. The abundant torque and power simply make the vehicle more capable and fun to drive in every scenario. And the long production history of the 3.6L V6 brings peace of mind for reliability.
That said, the 4 cylinder engine can still be a great option at a lower price point. The better fuel mileage is nice for budget-focused buyers. And with some extensive modifications, 4 cylinder models can still become very capable off-road.
But for most Wrangler buyers interested in performance, towing ability, and factory off-road capability, the V6 Pentastar is definitely the best engine choice. The relatively small difference in purchase price is easily justified by the huge gains in vehicle ability both on and off the pavement. So for shoppers who can swing it, springing for the V6 is recommended whenever possible.
