Jeep has revealed the new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept, which is powered by a 6.4-litre V8 engine that delivers 450 bhp and 450 lb-ft of torque, as well as a zero to 60 mph time of under 5 seconds.
Dana 44 axles, a full-time two-speed transfer case, electric front and rear axle lockers, 37-inch mud-terrain tyres wrapped around custom 17-inch beadlock wheels and a Jeep Performance Parts 2-inch lift kit from Mopar combine with suspension enhancements, a more-robust 8-speed transmission and a massive V8 engine to deliver what is claimed to be “the ultimate fun-to-drive Jeep vehicle with more off-road capability than ever in a Jeep Wrangler“.
The last time a Jeep was offered with a V8 engine was in the 1981 Jeep CJ, with its 5.0-litre V8 that delivered 125 bhp and 220 lb-ft of torque. Jeep enthusiasts have reportedly been clamouring for a V8 powered production Wrangler in recent years, and the new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept is an indication they may soon get their wish.
“Jeep Wrangler enthusiasts have been asking us for a Wrangler V8, and our new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept proves that we have the ability to make that happen,” says Jeep boss, Jim Morrison. “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. We are anxious to gauge their reaction to this new Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept, a vehicle that delivers an incredible and unmatched level of fun-to-drive performance and capability, on- and off-road.”
