Designfax weekly eMagazine

Subscribe Today!

Archives

View Archives

Partners

Manufacturing Center
Product Spotlight

Modern Applications News
Metalworking Ideas For
Today's Job Shops

Tooling and Production
Strategies for large
metalworking plants

Jeep beast: Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept has Hemi V8

While Ford was busy debuting its new Bronco in July, the crafty product engineers over at Jeep had their own impressive new creation to show off: a 450-hp Wrangler Rubicon Concept featuring a Hemi V8 and a load of enhancements for rugged outdoor fun. Word on the street is that this beast is really likely to be produced. Wait until you hear it roar.

VIDEO: Jeep Rubicon V8 Concept teaser video with quick rev sound bite.

Did you click on the video above? Um ... that doesn't sound like a regular Jeep.

The last time a Jeep was offered with a V8 engine was in the 1981 Jeep CJ, which sported a 5.0-liter V8 that delivered 125 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque. My, how times have changed. The Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept is powered by a 6.4-liter (392-cubic-in.) V8 engine that delivers 450 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque -- and has a 0- to 60-mph time of less than 5 sec. That's really haulin' for a Jeep.

To accommodate its V8 engine and a stronger eight-speed transmission, the Rubicon 392 Concept features upgraded engine mounts and a modified frame. Suspension upgrades include new aluminum, monotube Fox shocks for improved damping and heat dissipation. A two-mode exhaust alters the performance sound at the touch of a button.

It also gets third-gen Dana 44 axles, a Selec-Track full-time two-speed transfer case, Tru-Lok electric front- and rear-axle locking differentials, and 37-in. mud-terrain tires that wrap around custom 17-in. beadlock wheels, which hold the tires to the rims under extreme lateral loads, allowing for reduced tire pressure operation and added traction.

A factory Jeep Performance Parts 2-in. lift kit from Mopar makes room for the additional suspension articulation and improved approach, breakover, and departure angles. The Rubicon 392 Concept also features Rubicon rock rails, steel bumpers with a Warn winch, and a steel belly pan -- all added to help navigate the toughest off-road terrains.

Jeep says the more robust eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4x4 transfer case "improve overall drivability, and massive amounts of low-end torque allow for a 3.73 gear ratio, which delivers improved highway efficiency and a greater range of off-road capability."

Outside, the Rubicon Concept features Granite Crystal exterior paint adorned with Bronze accentuated tow hooks, badging, springs, shocks, and wheels. It has a heavy-duty raised performance hood with an aggressive appearance, custom half doors, and Wrangler's Sky One-touch powertop. It also has removable side panels for complete open-air freedom.

Inside, the concept features rich Red Rock-colored leather bolstered seats with gold stitching, along with a performance steering wheel.

Like what you see? Keep your fingers crossed. This bad boy could be coming soon.

Source: Jeep/FCA US

Published October 2020

Rate this article