When it comes to Jeep engines, the 2.0 turbo tops the list of many Jeep owners and drivers alike! So, its discontinuation raises questions like why the Jeep 2.0 Turbo was discontinued among Jeep enthusiasts.
In short, economic and performance-based issues are the most likely reasons why the engine has failed to survive in the market.
Just because the model is not continuing does not mean it has no alternative. But are the alternatives worth considering? Let’s unveil all the nooks and crannies!
Why Was the Jeep 2.0 Turbo Discontinued?
The Jeep 2.0 turbo engine has been one of the most affordable yet performance–based engine models for Jeep Wrangler vehicles.
However, Wrangler no longer incorporates the engine configuration into its new models.
We guess this news came as a shocker to many of us! So here, we have tried to note down the three most likely reasons for the discontinuation:
Take Rate Issue
The take rate in the automotive industry refers to the commission fee a company or service provider charges.
And to keep the take rate ratio growing, a company needs to make a constant profit from their vehicle sales.
But as the 2.0 turbo engine is facing an economic downturn, it is losing its popularity!
If a powertrain or engine model is not popular enough in the market, it lowers the take rate ratio. So is the case with the 2.0 turbo for Jeep.
New Jeep Model
Jeep has launched its new plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV). And this hybrid model features a different model of the 2.0-liter eTorque powertrain.
Before they started manufacturing this new model, the 2.0 turbocharger was a perfect match for mild hybrid vehicles.
So, what my research says is that to avoid overlap, they are canceling the turbo engine for mild hybrid Jeep models.
It is a smart decision. Because there is no point in configuring a similar turbo in both new and old Jeep models.
The more advanced a vehicle is, the more advanced an engine it requires instead of the same old specs.
Considering that, you can appreciate the Jeep’s choice to ditch the turbo 2.0 engine for something better.
Added Torque
Jeep’s 2.0 turbo engine has been upgraded with extra torque or etorque features. Due to the added torque, it provides more horsepower and better acceleration, similar to that of a diesel engine.
The diesel-powered engine is quicker, more reliable, and more fuel-efficient than the 2.0 turbo.
And the diesel engine also loads more weight while towing. Its towing capacity is 3500 pounds. So, Jeep owners tend to switch to the later model.
Are the New Replacements of 2.0 Turbo Worth Considering?
The new replacement for the 2.0-liter turbo powertrain is the V6 and Diesel-powered engine.
But are they worth configuring in your Jeep? For the answer, let’s take a look at my handpicked performance and features of these units:
Hybrid and Mild Hybrid V6
In general, the V6 engine comes in two types, one is hybrid, and the other is mild hybrid.
The former runs on battery alone. whereas the latter requires a small electric generator and battery to function.
The mild hybrid is manufactured with simple and environment-friendly technology. As a result, it consumes less fuel than its counterparts, which aids in fuel economy.
This powertrain does not release high amounts of toxic chemicals, unlike the Turbo 2.0. Also, its starter motor helps to smoothly start and stop the car.
So, Jeep owners that need to go driving often prefer fuel-efficient engines. As per my advice, the V6 mild hybrid will be a good choice for their vehicles.
The fact that it doesn’t require a charger plug makes it a favorite among traditional drivers, among other conventional features!
The hybrid V6 provides the same performance in terms of fuel economy, as the mild-hybrid engine.
What amazes me about the hybrid is that it requires less maintenance than the discontinued Turbo. So, you can save bucks on repairs and servicing.
The cherry on the cake is its lighter materials, which store more energy for future use! Overall, the hybrid-based Jeeps are ideal for driving on town and city roads.
EcoDiesel
The EcoDiesel engine is more fuel-efficient than the Jeep 2.0 turbo. And it provides better performance off the road.
So, drivers that like to go uphill or on unpaved terrain can surely consider the EcoDiesel over the turbo powertrain. This one right here can also outperform the 2.0-liter unit in terms of mpg.
Is the Jeep 2.0 Turbo Too Bad to Continue?
The turbo 2.0-liter power plant unquestionably offers excellent handling and speed performance. Therefore, most Jeep enthusiasts still prefer driving such a powerhouse.
But unfortunately, we have come across some discussion among its owners that reports its issues.
And they are not avoidable to begin with. Perhaps the following issues have fueled their discontinuation:
Multiple Recalls
If an automotive engine develops safety issues, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the manufacturer may request that the engine be returned.
Or else, it can lead to fatal damages and legal issues. And it came to me quite as a shock that the 2.0 turbo has received multiple recalls!
So, over time, the power unit has been under safety concerns due to fuel leaks and faulty fuel lines.
Even after replacing the malfunctioning units, this Turbo 2.0 has received recall requests. We do not advise anyone to take the risk of driving with these engines!
Because safety comes before the budget. Considering these, Jeep has the right to discontinue the model from all their vehicles.
Overheating and Oil Leaks
The turbocharger series of Jeeps overheats pretty often. And such a rise in temperature can lead to oil leaks. If the oil leaks, you need to add more oil, which is not fuel-efficient at all.
What seems stressful to me is the cleaning that comes after the oil-leak mess. The fuel will stain your driveway and floor.
And wiping off the surfaces and eliminating the smelly residue is a tough job. We are sure Jeep does not want its consumers to face such issues with the turbocharger by continuing it!
Will the 2.0 Turbocharger Make a Comeback?
Jeep does not continue configuring the 2.0 turbocharger with its new models. But they used to install it on Sahara Wranglers. Unfortunately, they have dropped the turbocharger from Sahara as well!
What we can assume from their engine specs over the past few years is that they are not reintroducing the 2.0 turbo anytime soon.
Instead, they are remodeling the turbo and configuring 2.0 L DOHC direct-injection unit in the recent vehicles.
Conclusion
Before knowing why the Jeep 2.0 turbo discontinued, it seemed Jeep only prioritized its profit and canceled the turbo.
But upon knowing the turbocharger engine issues such as recalls, leaks, and old features, the cancellation really makes sense!
So, if you would like to replace your 2.0 turbo before recalls, we highly recommend heading to a nearby automotive center.
They can figure out which engine is the perfect alternative to the turbo for your Jeep.