The 2025 Jeep Wrangler is making waves with a significant change that will please many off-road enthusiasts. After briefly removing the option for an automatic transmission with its V-6 engine, Jeep has reversed course, bringing back the eight-speed automatic transmission for the Wrangler V-6 model. This decision comes after an overwhelming outcry from fans and potential buyers who strongly preferred the convenience and performance of an automatic gearbox over the previously sole six-speed manual transmission.
This change is more than just a technical update, it reflects Jeep’s dedication to listening to its community and meeting customer demand. The V-6 Wrangler will now offer a more versatile choice of transmissions, allowing buyers to choose the transmission type that best suits their driving preferences.
What Changed? Jeep Responds to Demand
Initially, the 2025 Jeep Wrangler lineup only offered the iconic 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Jeep’s decision to remove the automatic transmission option had many fans scratching their heads, especially considering the popularity of the automatic V-6 Wrangler in previous model years.
However, after a flood of feedback from customers, Jeep took swift action. According to Bob Broderdorf, senior vice president and head of Jeep North America, the return of the eight-speed automatic transmission is a “response to enthusiastic requests.” In other words, the company listened to the voices of the Jeep community, and this decision is a direct response to the overwhelming demand for a more convenient driving experience.
Pricing and Options for the 2025 Jeep Wrangler
For the 2025 model year, Jeep offers the V-6 Wrangler with a six-speed manual transmission as the standard option, but now buyers can choose the eight-speed automatic for an additional $4,500. This gives customers more flexibility when choosing the type of driving experience they want. The base two-door Wrangler with the manual transmission starts at $33,990, while the four-door version begins at $38,590. However, the automatic transmission adds a significant premium, making it a more expensive option, but for many buyers, the convenience and smoothness of the automatic transmission are worth the extra cost.
Additionally, Jeep has introduced a few other exciting powertrain options for the 2025 Wrangler lineup, including the 270-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is paired exclusively with the eight-speed automatic transmission. This turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides a more fuel-efficient alternative to the V-6, while still offering ample power for off-road adventures.
For those looking for even more power, Jeep continues to offer the Wrangler 4xe, a plug-in hybrid that combines electric power with traditional gasoline propulsion, and the Wrangler Rubicon 392, which features a 470-hp V-8 engine. Both of these high-performance variants come exclusively with an automatic transmission, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to delivering both versatility and power in its Wrangler lineup.
Why the Manual Wasn’t Enough for Some Jeep Enthusiasts
Jeep is known for its rugged, go-anywhere vehicles, and the Wrangler has long been the brand’s flagship when it comes to off-roading. The V-6 engine has always been a popular choice among Wrangler buyers, known for its proven performance and reliability. However, despite the Wrangler’s traditional roots, Jeep’s decision to limit the V-6 engine to the manual transmission in the 2025 model year didn’t sit well with a large portion of the fanbase. For many, the idea of shifting gears manually while navigating rough trails simply wasn’t appealing.
Manual transmissions, while beloved by driving purists, can be more demanding, especially when driving off-road or in stop-and-go traffic. Many Jeep owners who use their vehicles as daily drivers preferred the convenience and ease of an automatic transmission, particularly when driving in more challenging conditions like steep inclines or slippery surfaces. As such, it’s no surprise that Jeep decided to listen to its customers and bring back the automatic transmission option for the V-6 Wrangler.
Automatic Transmission vs. Manual: Which is Right for You?
The return of the eight-speed automatic transmission for the V-6 Wrangler gives prospective buyers a tough decision to make: should they go with the traditional six-speed manual, or opt for the automatic for a more relaxed driving experience? Both options come with their own benefits.
- The Manual Transmission: For those who appreciate a more hands-on driving experience, the six-speed manual transmission will still be available for the 2025 Wrangler. It offers greater control over the vehicle, particularly in off-road conditions, and provides a more engaging connection between the driver and the vehicle. The manual is perfect for those who enjoy the challenge and skill of shifting gears themselves. Plus, the manual model will be more affordable, starting at a lower price point.
- The Automatic Transmission: On the other hand, the eight-speed automatic offers a smoother, more effortless driving experience. It’s particularly useful in stop-and-go traffic or on long highway drives, where constant gear-shifting can become tiresome. The automatic transmission also provides better acceleration and engine performance, making it ideal for more dynamic driving conditions, especially on trails or steep terrain. The added price of the automatic transmission reflects these benefits.
For many buyers, the decision may come down to convenience. If you want a more relaxed driving experience with a smoother shift, the automatic transmission is likely the better choice. But if you enjoy the challenge of manual gear shifts and are looking for a more affordable option, the manual transmission will continue to be available.
Jeep’s Commitment to the Wrangler Lineup: A Timeless Off-Road Icon
The 2025 Jeep Wrangler continues to embody everything that Jeep stands for: ruggedness, versatility, and off-road capability. With the introduction of the automatic transmission option for the V-6 Wrangler, Jeep has shown that it’s willing to evolve and adapt in order to meet the needs of its loyal customers while still honoring the brand’s legacy.
The 2025 Jeep Wrangler V-6 is a true workhorse, offering plenty of power for both on-road and off-road use. Whether you’re traversing tough mountain trails or cruising along the highway, the V-6 engine paired with the automatic transmission provides an excellent balance of power, efficiency, and comfort.
Jeep’s decision to reintroduce the automatic transmission for the V-6 model also aligns with the brand’s goal to cater to a broader audience, attracting those who may have previously been turned off by the manual-only configuration. It demonstrates that Jeep is committed to offering a diverse set of options to suit the varying needs and preferences of its customers.
Final Thoughts: The 2025 Jeep Wrangler’s Versatility is Its Strength
The 2025 Jeep Wrangler lineup is a testament to the brand’s adaptability and commitment to its customers. Whether you’re looking for a rugged off-road adventure vehicle, a more refined and comfortable daily driver, or an SUV that can handle both, the Wrangler has something for everyone. The return of the V-6 with the eight-speed automatic transmission option ensures that buyers can enjoy the power and capability of the Wrangler without sacrificing convenience.
From the entry-level model to the performance-oriented Rubicon 392 and the eco-conscious Wrangler 4xe, Jeep has created a lineup that meets the diverse needs of modern drivers. For the 2025 Wrangler, it’s clear that the brand’s mission is to continue providing a vehicle that not only looks good on the trail but also adapts to the way people drive today.
