Despite a significant recession and stubbornly-high gas prices, the Jeep Wrangler has remained one of America’s most beloved vehicles, putting the Sport back in Sport Utility Vehicle. Still, times are a-changin’, and stricter fuel economy requirements and emissions standards means that even vehicles like the Wrangler have to pitch in and clean up its act.

But that doesn’t mean the next-generation Wrangler is going to be neutered, not by a long shot. Speaking with Automotive News, Fiat-Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne said that the next Wrangler should be approved for production in the next few weeks, and it should be lighter, with a possible diesel engine option as well.

The interview reads between the lines a little, with Marchionne saying that engineers need to “take the weight out,” as well as add powertrain options to meet fuel economy requirements. Wrangler production is currently maxed out, so Chrysler probably isn’t looking to mess with the successful formula too much.

Still, we expect Chrysler to offer the 3.0L V6 as an option in the Wrangler when the next generation debuts. With up to 410 pound-feet of torque on tap, this little diesel engine can handle a lot of on- or off-road activity, while delivering 30 MPG or more for fuel economy. A lighter weight will further improve the MPGs, and while some Jeep purists are worried the Wrangler will sacrifice ruggedness for fuel efficiency, there is rarely a downside to shedding a few extra pounds. Most of us would certainly would benefit from a little “downsizing” ourselves.