The reason DC selected the Minivan engine was simple economics. Number one, the inline 6 engine line was dropped as a cost savings because DC could commonize the same engine for the Wrangler and the Minivan. Number two, the new engine closely matched the power of the old engine, which translates into “they didn’t have to extensively redesign and retest the drivetrain”, namely the transmission. Number three, DC was looking ahead about the possiblility of optional engines, such as a more powerful gas or diesel in the popular V6 orientation.

For those of you who are waiting for DC to drop a “Hemi” in the Wrangler. Wake up, because it’s not going to happen. That engine makes too much power for the Wrangler, from DC’s perspective. Plus they don’t offer a manual transmission for the V8 Hemi, so how would DC satisfy those people?

What you can expect to see is most likely the Dodge Nitro V6 (260 hp) or something close, because everyone is complaining about the new engine. If Jeep sales drop, I think DC will have no choice but to increase engine power or offer several engine options to bring sales back. The squeaky axle gets the grease here! So, the more noise everyone makes - the more likely DC is going to upgrade the engine.

As for me, as much as I don’t like the new engine, it makes a heck of a lot more power than my dying ‘89 Wrangler, so I sucked it up and ordered a 4dr Rubicon with a manual trans.
I test drove both the 4dr(auto) and a 2dr(manual) and both Jeeps seemed to have plenty of power for around town and on the freeway. I selected the manual transmission, because the automatic seemed sluggish, plus I prefer a stick shift. The Jeep is not a sports car after all and the aerodynamic shape might as well be a brick. I’m not buying a new for the speed or gas mileage, but because I like the new Jeep and it offers enough advantages over older models to make up for a “lesser than desired” engine.