For 2012, the Jeep Wrangler gets a boost in fuel economy and, coincidently, more power. Thanks to Chrysler's 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, the Environmental Protection Agency now rates the three-door Wrangler at 17 city and 21 highway mpg, up from the current rating of 15/19 mpg.

In addition to the fuel economy improvement, the Pentastar-equipped Jeep is expected to get a healthy power bump. Anticipate the new Wrangler's power to be closer to the current Grand Cherokee's figures of 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This represents a 43 percent horsepower and a 10 percent torque increase over the current Wrangler rated at 202 horsepower and 237 lb-ft of torque.

For buyers wanting more space and extra doors, the 2012 Wrangler Unlimited will also adopt the Pentastar engine; the EPA estimates a return of 16/21 mpg. Wranglers will continue to be offered in either a five-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission. For both three-door and five-door models, the EPA says the Wrangler will be good for a combined driving 18 mpg, regardless of transmission choice.

The Pentastar engine looks to improve Jeep's best selling model with its more economical and powerful engine. Prices for the 2012 Wrangler will be mostly unchanged from 2011. Expect prices to start around $22,000 for a three-door sport and topping out around $34,000 for a fully loaded Unlimited Rubicon.

The Wrangler was introduced in 1987 and has been largely unchanged over the years. To attract a wider consumer base, Jeep has upgraded the quality of its interior, added amenities and offered additional models. However, Wrangler's essence - tough, adventurous and capable - remains unchanged and the Pentastar engine should make the 2012 Wrangler Jeep's best yet.