The updated Jeep Wrangler gets a slightly different grille and a cheaper PHEV option

Jeep’s iconic Wrangler off-roader has had a refresh. Unveiled at the New York motor show, there’s a new grille, more driver assist systems, curtain airbags as standard and a bigger touchscreen display. Pretty standard facelift fare, then.

Oh, and Jeep has also expanded the US-spec powertrain range to include a more affordable plug-in hybrid variant.

The Wrangler's exterior styling changes are perhaps best described as subtle. There's a seven-slot grille (did you count the slots before?), a 'windshield-integrated stealth antenna' (we don’t care what it is, we want one for how cool it sounds) and no fewer than 10 new wheel designs.

Popular trims have been given some special attention too. The Rubicon now gets the option of a factory-installed Warn winch capable of pulling up to 3,600kg, while a new Dana 44 HD solid rear axle can also be specced to upsize the tyres and upgrade towing capacity to almost 2.5 tonnes. Meanwhile, the Willys trim gets bigger tyres, more ground clearance, fender flares and improved traction. Sweet.

Inside, the new Wrangler gets a bigger 12.3-inch touchscreen (up from 8.4in), and some new options including 12-way power-adjustable front seats. There's wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto too, as well as the first factory application of Trails Offroad, which gives comprehensive trail guides for 62 different 'Jeep Badge of Honor' routes.

Jeep boss Christian Meunier said: “The Jeep Wrangler is the archetypal adventure hero, embodying the spirit and the soul of the Jeep brand.

“Since its introduction, we have sold almost five million Wranglers around the world, setting new levels of 4x4 capability with each new generation. Today, we are raising the bar once again by combining the most capable Wrangler to date, with more technology, comfort and safety features. This is a no-compromise combination enhanced by the freedom to choose from four different powertrains, including our electrified 4xe, which is the best-selling PHEV in America.”  

There’s a new, as-yet-unnamed lower price point for the very popular Wrangler PHEV too. The 'Sport S' 4xe trim will be available to the US market at the back end of this year and will undercut the current hybrid entry price of $54,735. The new 2024 PHEV also offers a Jeep 4xe Power Box, which features four 120V outlets and enables the 17kWh battery to be used as a power bank. Smart.

We’ll get more details on sale dates in international markets, including the UK, later in the year. Until then, those inspiring press pics have us dreaming of some seriously cool off-road adventures...