Jeep unveils the Wrangler Rubicon 392 concept with a V8 engine

The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most iconic off-roaders on sale today, and it was just teased with a new V8 engine! Enthusiastic Wrangler fans were asking for a V8 and the Wrangler Rubicon 392 concept is the perfect indication that their wishes may come true soon. This comes right after Ford unveiled the new Bronco, that without a doubt, had a few prospective Wrangler buyers look Ford’s way. And Jeep clearly wants their attention back.

Although Jeep has previously said that a V8 Wrangler was not on the cards as the engine didn’t allow it to meet modern crash regulations, they have clearly found a way around that. The Rubicon 392 might still just be a concept, but going by how Jeep has worded its press release, it looks like it could well be a reality. The Rubicon 392 concept will be offered with a 6.4-litre V8 engine that churns out 444bhp and 610Nm of peak torque that is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

As expected of anything with the Rubicon badge, Jeep has equipped the concept with hardware for better off-roading like high-strength Dana 44 axles and locking differentials on both axles. The 37-inch mud-terrain tyres wrapped around 17-inch bead-lock wheels, it also gets two-inch lifted suspension and monotube Fox shocks that improves its ability to tackle off-road obstacles

The Wrangler Rubicon 392 concept gets a bulging hood that is aggressive in appearance, custom half doors and Wrangler’s Sky One-touch powertop, with removable side panels for complete open-air freedom. On the inside, the Wrangler Rubicon 392 concept gets a rich red rock-coloured leather bolstered seats with gold stitching, along with a performance steering wheel.

Speaking about Wrangler Rubicon 393 concepts introduction, Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA North America said “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. From the recently introduced 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.”

This is not the first time when Jeep has introduced a V8 into its hardcore off-roaders -- like the Jeep CJ from 1981 had a 5.0-litre V8 engine and it still remains the OG. However, it has been missing from the modern Wrangler’s arsenal and Jeep seem to be considering bringing it back. Jeep has stated that it is looking to gauge its customer’s reactions before putting it into production.