The engine of your Jeep is what keeps it going, no matter how rough the terrain may get. Jeep engines have developed a reputation for longevity, reliability, and dependable power when you need it. You typically won't find Jeep engines revving to stratospheric redlines, developing dizzying amounts of horsepower (except in special cases), or demanding a specialized team of engineers each time they go wrong. Jeep engines are built simple, and in some cases, shared with a plethora of sister brands as well.

Of course, the current crop of Jeep engines are powerful, technologically advanced, and efficient, yet still maintain their legendary reliability. We'll look at the Jeep engines post-World War II that made the brand famous, some of their greatest hits throughout the years, and the best ones you can find in 2023.

Whatever you need for your Jeep engine, we've got it at 4 Wheel Parts. Just hit up our Jeep Replacement Parts and Performance Parts sections and get browsing. If you're a bit unsure or confused, just reach out to our team, and they'll sort you out.

Looking Back at Jeep Engines in the Post-World War II Era

The Go-Devil

The engine that defined the post-World War II Jeep is the Willys Go-Devil. Officially known as the L134, it's a 134-cubic-inch straight-four gasoline engine that put out just 60hp, which might seem low for its displacement, but it also generated a useful 105 lb.-ft. of torque. After all, you need torque more than horsepower in an off-roader. Featuring an iron block and iron head, it's sturdy enough for many to last right up to the current day with nothing more than regular maintenance.

The Hurricane

In 1950, Willys updated the Go-Devil engine with a newer F-head and larger valves, resulting in a power bump to 75hp. Torque was also improved to 114 lb.-ft. at just 2,000 rpm. The Hurricane is the engine that also powered the Mitsubishi variant of the Jeep that was built under license.

Some of the Standout Jeep Engines Leading Up to 2023

Let's look at some evergreen hits from Jeep's journey through time, to the present day, that are still revered by those buying classic Jeeps. You'll find that the last two engines on the list are still offered on 2023-model Jeeps.

The AMC 401

Bearing the distinction of the largest engine ever fitted to a Jeep, the AMC 401 V8 displaced 401 cubic inches and produced 330 hp at its heyday in 1972, as well as over 400 lb.-ft. of torque. This large and thirsty engine was loved by many, but the Malaise era of the Seventies struck it hard, strangling it to just 120 hp by 1977.

The AMC 4.0L I6

In the mid-Eighties, the AMC 242ci (4.0L) in-line six entered the scene and developed a reputation for its sheer toughness. It may not have been powerful, developing only 190 hp in its most potent iteration, but it made up for it in strength. Popular Mechanics rated this engine among their ten best car engines list, and said that it should last at least 200,000 miles between rebuilds. The engine was produced all the way up to 2006, when it bowed out on the Jeep Wrangler, replaced by the next engine on our list.

The Chrysler Pentastar

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 debuted in 2010 and can still be found on the 2023 Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator models. A stout engine that actually develops decent power as well, it's rated for around 285 hp and 260 lb.-ft. in most applications. The engine utilizes variable valve timing on the intake and exhaust sides, and can also work on E85, as well as 87-octane fuel.

Jeep EcoDiesel Engine

Actually built by Italian firm VM Motori, this 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 is considered great because it can offer up to 240 hp and 420 lb.-ft. when pushed, yet achieve 30 mpg on highway runs with a light foot on the throttle. Reliability is decent too, which further cements its case for a place on this list.

Best 2023 High-Performance Jeep Engines

Now, let's see what's available on the 2023 Jeep range, apart from the Pentastar and the EcoDiesel. There are more engines offered in Jeeps sold in other markets, but we're concentrating on the engines available for the North American market in this section.

The HEMI V8s

Yes, you can have a HEMI V8 in your Jeep, rumbling away and delivering up to 470 hp and 470 lb.-ft. in 6.4-liter models such as the Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Wrangler. There's also a smaller 5.7-liter unit that develops 357 hp. How long the HEMIs will be available we don't know, given their thirst and emissions, so best grab one while you still can.

The Hurricane

The FCA Global Medium Engine, known as the Hurricane, is a downsized 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 270 hp in Jeep products such as the Wrangler, Compass, and Cherokee. It's also found in a variety of Alfa Romeo and Maserati models. The Hurricane has been developed to work with hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains as well, meaning it should be around for quite some time.

The Tigershark

The 2.4-liter Tigershark has been around for a bit longer and kicks out 180 hp from its 2.4-liter 4-cylinder naturally aspirated guise. You'll find it in the Compass, Cherokee, and Renegade. The Tigershark may also be retired in time to come, given its larger displacement and emissions figures.

Everything for Jeep Engines and More at 4 Wheel Parts

Whether it's a single engine component, an overhaul kit, or an aftermarket performance upgrade that you're after, 4 Wheel Parts can help you out. With over 100 stores across the nation, as well as an excellent online buying experience, you're sure to find what you need from our thousands of products.

You can choose, compare, and avail yourself of the best prices, plus free expert advice and all applicable warranties. That's why many Jeepies swear by us and are lifetime customers. Join the community and you'll never need to hunt for Jeep parts again.