Jeep has introduced a new conceptual version of the ever-popular Wrangler Unlimited, one equipped with a 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 packing 450 horsepower and 450 lb.-ft. of torque. The Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept delivers acceleration to 60 mph in less than five seconds, but that’s not the critical performance metric here. The added torque improves upon the Wrangler Rubicon’s already prodigious off-road performance.
The V-8 is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, Jeep’s Selec-Trac full-time 2-speed transfer case, and Dana 44 front and rear axles with electric Tru-Lok locking differentials. Jeep needed to modify the Wrangler’s frame and engine mounts to fit the 6.4-liter V-8, and the concept vehicle has a hood scoop with “392” on each side. The V-8 breathes through a dual-mode performance exhaust system.
Painted in Granite Crystal with Bronze accents and a Red Rock leather interior, the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept sits on a set of custom bronze-finish 17-inch beadlock aluminum wheels wrapped in 37-inch mud-terrain tires. Custom half doors and Jeep’s power Sky one-touch convertible top complete the look.
The V8-powered Wrangler also has aluminum monotube Fox performance shocks and a 2-inch suspension lift kit from Jeep Performance Parts. So equipped, the automaker says the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept offers greater wheel articulation while fording 34 inches of water and supplying 13.25 inches of ground clearance. The suspension setup also improves approach, breakover, and departure angles to 51.6, 29.5, and 40.1 degrees, respectively.
It’s no coincidence that Jeep introduced the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept on the same day rival Ford is debuting it’s all-new 2021 Bronco, which is designed to go head-to-head with the Wrangler.
But will Jeep actually build a V-8-powered Wrangler?
“Jeep Wrangler enthusiasts have been asking us for a Wrangler V-8 and our new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept proves that we have the ability to make that happen,” said Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA North America, in a statement. “From the recently introduced 29-mpg Wrangler EcoDiesel to our award-winning Jeep Gladiator, and the upcoming Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, Jeep is clearly listening to its customers.”
Based on this quote, it sure sounds like it will.
The information in this article is from Jeep. It was accurate on July 13, 2020 but may have changed since that date.
Updates to the 2027 Honda Passport TrailSport include a reworked suspension, improved steering, subtle styling enhancements, and added standard equipment.
Read the Full Article
The midsize 2027 Mercedes GLE remains available in original and spicy Coupe recipes, now with standard 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD), MBUX Superscreen technology, and a panoramic glass sunroof for ...See More
Read the Full Article
Nissan is about to introduce an innovative new SUV. The 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid has a gasoline engine, but it does not power the wheels. Instead, electric motors at each axle provide propulsion, ...See More
Read the Full Article
Adding European flair to the otherwise vanilla midsize three-row family SUV market, the redesigned 2027 Volkswagen Atlas debuts with a sharper exterior, an upgraded cabin, more power, and new ...See More
Read the Full Article