Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler 4xe are back and better than ever for next year, but one powertrain pairing is an interesting addition.

Staring with the new model year, you'll no longer be able to buy a Wrangler with the venerable Pentastar V-6 and an automatic transmission. Instead, the base model Jeep Wrangler will keep its 285-hp 3.6-liter V-6, but only with a six-speed manual. Previously, the slushbox was a $4500 upgrade.

It was 1980-something and news hit pieces on how unsafely small SUVs handled emergency road maneuvers were all the rage. Discounting the fact it was never advisable to dive into a 270-degree freeway exit ramp at 70 mph or enter a road course slalom section in your Suzuki Samurai,