Chrysler continues to revamp all their models, and steadily finding their way back into the race. Previously, we told you about the “new” 2011 Wranglers with an upgraded interior. Now, Jeep has moved into Phase Two of revamping the Wrangler.

Opting to scrap the highly underpowered and inefficient 3.8L V6, Jeep has finally switched to the 3.8L Pentastar V6 for the 2012 Wrangler. This change adds some much required power while improving fuel economy by about 15%. The new engine makes 285 horsepower, a jump of about 80 horses compared to the old 205 hp 3.8L. This ensures that the Wrangler hits 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds.

Another notable change is the transmission. The decade old 4-speed has been dropped in favour of a 5-speed automatic. As for the manual lovers, they still get to choose a six-speed manual. Fuel ratings are 16 (city) / 21 (highway) for the 6-speed manual, while the 5-speed automatic gets 16 / 20.

Exterior changes are kept to a minimum this time, only helping improve aerodynamics. The interior remains the same as from the 2011 model. Also for 2012, the Wrangler has increased its rear axle ratio choices to three — 3.21, 3.73 and 4.10.

The Wrangler has indeed received some well required mechanical updates, but it remains to be seen how this will translate into sales.