New Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392: the wildest Wrangler brings back the V8 engine

Not everything is going to be electrification, which, by the way, the Jeep Wrangler isn’t escaping either, as we saw with the new Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. Now, the legendary 4×4 is presented in the new Wrangler Rubicon 392 version. An authentic off-roader with an engine like the ones that are no longer around.

And it’s just that, in these times, it’s not easy to find a new car that can boast an engine of the kind that are becoming increasingly rare. Exactly, the Wrangler 392 once again has a large-displacement V8 under the bonnet, nearly four decades later. The bad news (or good news, depending on how you look at it; it saves you the temptation) is that the new Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 is destined for the American market, where V8s still seem to have some life left in them.

V8 engine, 6.4 litres, 470 CV

And you’ll ask me, why would a Wrangler need a V8 engine under the bonnet and power more fitting of a track-focused sports car? Well, to show off muscle, because there’s always someone who likes to puff out their chest. The figures speak for themselves.

The cast-iron block V8 features modern technologies such as a cylinder deactivation system, variable valve timing, two spark plugs per cylinder, a “dual-mode” active exhaust and an air intake system called “Hydro-Guide”, with three-level ducts and drains to allow wading through water more than 80 cm deep, even if the water covered the bonnet.

It produces 470 CV and a maximum torque of 637 Nm, which allows the Wrangler Rubicon to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph (0-96 km/h) in just 4.5 seconds. And the best part is that 75% of the maximum torque is already available right at idle speed.

Power is sent to the wheels through an eight-speed TorqueFlite 8HP75 gearbox which, for the first time on the Wrangler, allows gear changes using paddles behind the steering wheel, as well as from the gear selector. It is a “by-wire” gearbox, with electronic control. The Selec-Trac permanent four-wheel drive features a transfer case with a low-range reduction gear.

A chassis adapted to the circumstances for the king of 4x4s

To handle so much power, the Wrangler Rubicon 392’s chassis receives a host of improvements, such as reinforced side rails and new control arms and knuckles in the suspension. The shock absorbers are high-performance FOX units, and in addition to the electronic locking differentials, the front anti-roll bar can be disconnected to gain suspension travel on the most demanding terrain.

The Off-road Plus program, with specific modes for sand and rocks, maximises traction at the touch of a button, adjusting the gearbox, traction control and the rear differential lock when driving in high gears.

Using Selec-Speed Control, the speed can be controlled in 4×4 mode with low gears, allowing slow progress without using either the accelerator or the brakes.

Design: genuinely Jeep

Distinctive details that identify the Rubicon 392 include the bronze-coloured wheels, a colour that is repeated on various decorative elements of the bodywork. The 392 badge, indicating the engine’s displacement in cubic inches, appears on both sides of the bodywork.

The bronze colour is also used for the front seat upholstery in leather, inspired by competition. There is also a Uconnect multimedia system with an 8.4-inch screen, with specific 4×4 screens that allow you to monitor body angles, GPS coordinates or the way the engine delivers its power.

Customers who opt for a Wrangler Rubicon 392 also have access to Mopar’s extensive catalogue of personalisation options, including 4×4 LED lights, the Rubicon winch, side steps, or a complete range of wheels for large-diameter tyres.

Image gallery Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392

Technical specifications of this car

Off-RoadJeep Wrangler2 versions · from 87,750 €