I took the back seat to blogging about the new Jeep Wrangler JL/JLU for a few weeks because of event/wheeling season but now I'm back and packing all the latest information into one reader-friendly blog. The JL/JLU is one of, if not the, most highly anticipated model release of 2017 and we know we're not the only ones on the edge of our seats, biting our nails and bickering over which sub-model we want. Thanks to the folks over at the JL Wrangler Forums, we now have updates!

I'll start with the newest first! It has been confirmed that the JL/JLU will feature the Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering. This feature combines the advantages of hydraulic power steering and electric power steering providing you, the driver, with a natural steering feel and improved fuel efficiency. This can be achieved by activating the steering motor only when the driver is steering. The system is designed to draw power from an electric motor rather than the engine. In conventional hydraulic power steering systems, the power comes directly from the engine, lowering the total output of the vehicle and decreasing the fuel mileage. #LetMeUpgradeYou. The electric motor is operated and controlled by the ECU unit, controlling the motor precisely by accurately monitoring the force, vehicle speed and steering angles. This advantage could have an added benefit for those looking to upgrade to larger tires. On the current JK and previous models, the larger the tire upsize, the less responsive and more difficult the steering becomes.  With the new electro-hydraulic steering, there is the possibility that the system may help reduce the negative characteristics that come hand in hand with larger tire upgrades. With the Wrangler model already being one of the most upgradeable vehicles currently on the market, this feature could be a huge game changer!

The next big upgrade with the JL/JLU will come standard in the Sahara and Rubicon models and is in addition to the current tilting feature on the steering wheel itself. Sahara and Rubicon models will come with the all new telescoping, and tilting, steering column. This is a first for Jeep and should be welcomed by shorter and taller drivers alike.

FCA has confirmed that there are currently over 200 JL/JLU prototypes on the roads that have been built for various testing purposes. The latest images provide a somewhat blurry glimpse of the body color painted roll cage, which is visible through the rear side window. The red, but still heavily concealed, JL Unlimited was spotted driving down the highway within the last 2 weeks. It is still unclear whether or not all models will come with a body color painted roll cage or just the premium models. This photo also gives us a little insight into the underside of the roof including the overhead console, new roof latches and newly redesigned sound bar crossmember.

The soft top and hard top versions of the JL/JLU were also spotted earlier this month in a parking lot. The most recent photos reveal more than the previous shots of the still heavily camouflaged vehicle. These prototypes offer a better look at the shapes of the windows, fenders and overall dimensions. 

The most recent photos also show a mostly uncovered JLU rear. The rear window appears to be larger and seems to have a more leaned looking frame that surrounds the glass. This feature should drastically improve visibility while also providing a sleeker, more modern aesthetic. The rear profile looks to be much flatter than the current JKs rear end and tailgate. 

Both the 2 door and 4 door models are expected to be released at the same time and 2018 ordering/production schedule is still slated for a September 2017 press launch with production to begin in November of this year. 

Countdown as of today marks it at 63 days until production and ordering begins for the 2018 Jeep Wrangler JL/JLU. As always, check back here and at www.jlwranglerforums.com for all of the latest and greatest updates and information!