2017 Jeep Wrangler: Top-Centric Details Emerge

We’ve spent a fair amount of time sleuthing out details on the next-generation Jeep Wrangler, but until now most of those discussions were focused on either drivetrain and suspension developments or its construction, widely speculated to be an aluminum body on a steel frame. (The photo above depicts a prototype Wrangler undergoing testing.) Now, thanks to the folks at Allpar and some of their routinely reliable sources, we have a few hints at how Jeep may be reconfiguring the roof for the next-gen Wrangler.

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We already know the folding front windshield will be replaced by a fixed unit. According to Allpar’s source, the traditional soft top will also disappear. Additionally, the sport bar is replaced by an integrated substructure, likely with at least four stressed mounting points: “The traditional soft top is gone,” the website’s source says. “It appears to have removable soft panels over the substructure. The sport bar design is gone. It even appears to have built-in grab handles.”

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Although hard-core fans may be saddened to see the traditional sport bar—commonly referred to as a “roll bar,” although litigation banned the use of that term years ago—the reasons for going this route are numerous. In addition to allowing engineers to optimize the body, aluminum or otherwise, for maximum torsional rigidity, it also will give FCA the opportunity to get a leg up on addressing any changes that may come along in the NHTSA safety mandates. The fixed A-pillar plays into this, as well. (Currently NHTSA maintains a “convertible exception” that permits open-top cars to resist less force than other vehicles.)

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The design would also allow engineers to remove weight from the top assembly and lessen the need for lower-body structural reinforcements, which in turn helps with fuel economy and gives the vehicle a lower center of gravity. You can bet Jeep will configure a removable top of some kind to work with the new structure, and removable doors will likely also be part of the plan.

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• Sergio Sez: Next Wrangler to Feature Hybrid Construction of Aluminum and Steel

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• The Awesome Classic Jeeps of SEMA

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• Jeep Wrangler Research: Tests, Reviews, Specs, and More

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Allpar’s source also states that: “The taillight design will change, the bumpers are mostly the same as current, as well as the tailgate construction [and] 5×5 wheel bolt pattern.” As Allpar notes, it’s a good bet the “X” pattern taillights from the Renegade will appear on the new Wrangler, and keeping the current bumper configuration is good for fitting aftermarket components such as winches and brush bars.

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