Can you remember the last time a Jeep Wrangler came with a V8 option from the factory? If you guessed 1986, you’re right on the money. In an era when auto manufacturers are moving into hybrid and turbocharged power plants, Jeep had the gumption to give fans something to celebrate. This comes thanks to the announcement of the 2021 Wrangler Rubicon 392.
“This is the most powerful, quickest, most capable Jeep Wrangler we’ve ever built,” said Jim Morrison, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA North America. “The factory lift and abundant low-end torque from the V-8 makes the Rubicon 392 the king of the hills, whether you’re rock crawling at low speeds or powering up an incline. And, when pavement replaces dirt, Rubicon 392 makes quick work of the road.”
The heart of this new Wrangler is a 392 cubic-inch V8, putting out 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. Compared with the standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and its 285 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, the Rubicon 392 will be a marked improvement. The Rubicon 392 also boasts a 0-60mph time of 4.5 seconds, which is pretty incredible when you consider this is a friggin’ Jeep Wrangler we’re talking about!
On top of this engine will rest a hood with a functional scoop. Jeep states it will come with a Hydro-Guide air intake system capable of diverting up to 15 gallons of water a minute away from the engine. There will also be a secondary air path in the hood, which will come in handy should snow, mud, or debris pile up.
There’s no word yet on the price point of this V8-powered Wrangler. But if we were to venture a guess (and considering the 2021 Rubicon starts at roughly $42,000), we would bet the Rubicon 392 will run north of $50,000.
What’s your take on this powerful Wrangler coming to market? Let us know in the comments below.