Jeep did what? Wrangler automatic back after fans revolt

In a strange turn of events, people complained that a manual transmission was the only option on the Wrangler V6.

BullGotes

Dec 20, 2024 - 11:34

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Jeep did what? Wrangler automatic back after fans revolt

It seems like not everyone is on the "Save the Manuals" bandwagon, especially not Jeep Wrangler drivers.

Since September of 2024, the 2025 Jeep Wrangler V6 was only available with a six-speed manual transmission. According to Bob Broderdorf, senior vice president and head of Jeep North America, "enthusiastic requests" from the public led Jeep to reintroduce the optional eight-speed automatic transmission for an extra $4,500.

“In response to enthusiastic requests, we’re reintroducing the eight-speed automatic transmission for V6 Wrangler models, underscoring our commitment to freedom of choice, performance, and versatility for every adventure. We deeply value our community’s passion and input," Broderdorf said.

Those who previously wanted an automatic would have to settle for the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4, the plug-in-hybrid 4xe, or the 392 Final Edition with a 6.4-liter V8. Having a manual as an option on your V6 offering but not your V8 is a bit of a strange decision, though.

Adding an automatic transmission hikes the Wrangler's price quite a bit

In terms of pricing, the base two-door Wrangler with the V6 and six-speed manual starts at $33,990. Add two more doors, and the price jumps to $38,590. By those calculations, a two-door V6 Wrangler with an automatic transmission would cost you $38,490, while a four-door V6 Wrangler with an automatic transmission would cost you $43,090.

Why the sudden desire for an automatic, though?

The reason is still up in the air, but it likely has to do with convenience. While a manual transmission gives you more refined control off-road, an automatic takes the gear shifting out of the equation. Eliminating the need to focus on not stalling can allow you to focus on the other grueling tasks that come with serious dirt driving.

That's assuming that the same Jeep Wrangler drivers who wanted an automatic actually take their rig off-road. Regular drivers may also want the middle ground of power between the I4 and V8 without the hassle of rowing their own gears in everyday traffic. And hey, regardless of what the purists tell you, commuting through traffic with a manual is just plain not fun.

Final thoughts

At the end of the day, more choices are never bad. The purists can still have the manual transmission while the hoi polloi can cruise their automatic. Listening to consumers in cases like this only leads to more sales, and that's definitely something Stellantis needs right now.

What's your take? Is off-roading with a manual transmission just fine? Are Jeeps just better overall without an automatic transmission? Let us know in the comments!