If you own a Jeep Wrangler, you should know that your vehicle’s engine is essential in its performance. With that said, what used to be an optional engine, the 2.0L Turbo, would become the standard engine for all Jeep models with automatic transmissions a few years ago. On the other hand, the 3.6L V6 was designated as the standard engine for 6-speed manual transmission.
But what is the difference between Jeep 2.0 vs 3.6 engines? Both are being used on most of the Jeep models, but in terms of driving experience and other features, you will find some differences between the two. Let us find out in this article.
| Features | 2.0L Turbo Engine | 3.6L V6 Engine |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 290 | 260 |
| Horsepower | 270 | 285 |
| Normal Driving Range | 440 Miles | 400 Miles |
| Towing Capacity | 3500 lbs | 3500 lbs |
| Fuel Required | 87 Octane | 87 Octane |
Table of Contents
Transmission
If you want to compare the Jeep 2.0 turbo vs 3.6 V6, you need to know the best transmission that works best for these two engines. If your Jeep vehicle has a manual transmission, then the 3.6L V6 is the ultimate choice.
This type of engine is built to partner with manual transmission. The engine was first used in 2011 with the Jeep Grand Cherokee; since then, millions have been manufactured. The engine is known for its reliability.
On the other hand, the 2.0L turbo works best if partnered with automatic transmissions. The best thing about this engine is that it is enjoyable to drive and responsive. This engine will make your vehicle lighter and faster when you are driving. This engine was first used with the Jeep Wrangler in 2018.
Fuel Economy
Running the 2.0L Turbo on a regular-grade 87 octane fuel is advisable. But most of the time, you can feel the tank with the recommended 91-octane to have the best performance and efficiency of the vehicle.
As for the 3.6L V6, expect the gas mileage to be around 20 miles per gallon when driving in the city and add another 5 miles per gallon when driving on the highway. The total gas mileage should be about 22 miles per gallon when driving in a rear-wheel drive.
On-Road Performance
When driving on the road, the choice should be the 2.0L engine. It is perfect for city driving as it provides a direct and consistent performance. The turbo-powered engine will give a lot of torque, making your vehicle quicker and speedier.
In my experience, the on-road performance of this engine combines a balance between power and drivability. The engine will also make you feel that the vehicle is light even if the weight of these two engines is the same.
Meanwhile, the 3.6L V6 engine’s performance on the road is satisfactory. Compared to the other engines, this engine feels lively but pale. Also, this engine will make the vehicle a little bit heavier compared to using the other engine. However, the passing power and the off-the-line performance are quite impressive.
Off-Road Performance
The 3.6L V6 engine performs better when used off the road. In fact, it provides better ability when handling obstacles without stalling the vehicle and while you are not touching the throttle. It also provides a lot of speed regardless of the type of terrain you are dealing with. In other words, the V6 engine is perfect for off-road driving.
In terms of the trust, not a lot of people prefer the 2.0L engine when driving off-road. In my experience, this engine provides a different dynamic when it comes to dealing with the challenges of the road.
All you have to do is learn how to use it on this type of road properly. Once you do it, you will quickly adapt to using the engine when driving all the challenges that off-road presents to you. Rest assured that the 2.0L also provides an excellent performance off the road, the same it does on the road. It will give you reliable off-road performance, albeit different from what the 3.6L V6 offers.
Driving Experience
When you drive using both engines, you can also tell the difference in terms of the driving experience. The 2.0L turbo feels quicker from launch. But in terms of acceleration, the 3.6L V6 feels perfect. The 2.0L engine comes with a significant hesitation of around 1 to 2 seconds once the gas pedals are pressed, and feels like it was downshifting.
However, you can really judge the engines when you are only test driving, especially in the shifting characteristics. The transmissions of these vehicles, regardless of the engine being used, can be familiarized as you drive them. Both engines are good overall.
Conclusion
Comparing Jeep 2.0 vs 3.6 is a no-brainer since both are good engines. But if you owned a Jeep Wrangler with automatic transmission, the 2.0L turbo engines should be an excellent fit. The 3.6L V6 is mated best with the manual transmission. Overall, these two engines are good, and it’s for you to find out which will fit your driving needs.