2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 brings V8 power

A few months back when the Ford Bronco came back from the dead, Jeep decided to troll Ford by teasing the V8 Wrangler. They showcased an almost production-ready Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 just hours before the Bronco’s reveal. Months later, the concept has morphed into production form, putting an end to the enthusiasts’ wait for a factory V8 Jeep Wrangler.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 is not that far off from the concept that wooed us back in July. In fact, it adds more to the concept. In typical FCA fashion, Jeep went overboard with the engine, plonking in a monstrous 6.4-litre naturally aspirated Hemi V8 under the bonnet. The maximum power is now 470 hp, 20 hp more than what was promised by the concept, although still less than what comes in our Chrysler 300 SRT. The torque is also higher now, at 637 Nm. Armed with this grunt, the big Wrangler Rubicon can sprint from 0 to 100 kph in just over 4.7 seconds.

The mill is hooked up to an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, a first for a Wrangler. There is a “Torque Reserve” launch control system that helps the Wrangler launch perfectly during an on-road start.

Only available in Rubicon form, it comes with a full-time Select-Track 4WD system that offers four different modes, 4WD Auto, 4WD High, Neutral, and 4WD Low.

The 392 also gets a two-inch increase in ride-height, along with updated suspension that gets Fox shocks, upper control arms, and heavy-duty brakes. For more traction off-road, 33-inch tyres shod the Beadlock capable 17-inch wheels.  As a result of these changes, the angles of approach and departure are improved as well as the water wading capacity. There is a Hydro-Guide air intake that channels water away from the engine even if the water flows over the bonnet.

The design changes on the Wrangler Rubicon 392 include special badges, new wheels, and of course, the massive hood scoop feeding air to the monstrosity under it. The body colour hard-top is a standard fitment. The Rubicon 392 is also well-kitted inside. The interior gets leather trim, advanced safety systems, a premium infotainment system etc. all of which are optional for most of the Wrangler range.

The price of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 is not announced yet but with the 6.4-litre engine powering it, it is certainly not going to be cheap. The 392 will go on sale in early-2021 and probably come here by the end of next year. We suspect it will be north of Dhs 250,000 in the UAE.