Timing Is Everything: Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392… Concept
There’s nothing coincidental about the timing of this vehicle’s release. Alas, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept is exactly that, a concept, though Fiat Chrysler’s off-road brand strongly hints that it will become a reality one day.
That confirmation, if it is forthcoming, will take place long after the debut of a vehicle this concept is meant to fight: the Ford Bronco.
You’ll recall that Jeep raised eyebrows by releasing a teaser shot of the vehicle’s hood on Saturday morning, leading car watchers to deduce that Jeep planned to battle its rival’s new off-roader with a muscular Wrangler boasting horsepower the Bronco couldn’t top. And that ncould still be the plan.
Jeep claims the concept is “an indication” that fans who’ve demanded a V8-powered Wrangler for years “may soon get their wish.” Better follow through on that suggestion, Jeep.
With a detuned 6.4-liter Hemi under hood (450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, vs the stock 6.4L’s 485 hp/475 lb-ft), the Rubicon 392 Concept further beefs up the package with Dana 44 axles, electronic locking differentials, a full-time two-speed transfer case, and a 2-inch lift courtesy of Mopar’s vast catalog of Jeep Performance Parts. Suspension enhancements include Fox monotube shocks, with more terrain-tackling capacity attained via 37-inch mud-and-snow tires wrapped around 17-inch beadlock wheels. A beefed-up eight-speed automatic doles out the power.
Externally, the concept sets itself apart from other Wrangler Unlimiteds with a power bulge hood and air scoop, shaved fenders, and half doors. There’ll be plenty of side curtain acreage to stash when the power fold-down top gets put to use.
But it’s still a concept, and on a day where a very real off-road vehicle will see the light of day at Ford, the Wrangler Rubicon 392 comes across as a cynical diversionary tactic, even if it does one day enter production.
Which isn’t to say this concept isn’t both cool and desirable.
[Image: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles]
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If I can hear the tire noise from your vehicle from inside my vehicle, with my windows up, a/c on and music playing, then your life has achieved a level of significance which should show all those naysayers once and for all (including your dad, wherever he is). [Well done, young man. Now what will you drive next?]
On the jeep boards, it really is pretty much the number 1 thing requested - maybe not the 392 specifically- but put a v8 in it. Should be interesting to see what the the actual take rate would be on this vs what you read in the forums. Personally, it seems like the diesel would tick all my boxes.