Jeep plugs a V8 into a Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept

MANILA: Jeep teases off-road enthusiasts with the Wrangler Rubicon 392 Concept that brings the nameplate back to the '80s when it used V8 engines under the hood.

With almost double the engine size of the current 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, the concept will be powered by a 6.4 V8 that sends 450hp and 610 Nm of torque to an eight-speed transmission with a 3.73 gear ratio (for great highway efficiency and off-road capability). That’s good enough to take this little truck from 0-96 kilometers per hour in five seconds.

It will use Dana 44 axles, new aluminum, monotube Fox shocks, a Selec-Track full-time 4x4 two-speed transfer case, a Tru-Lok electric front- and rear-axle locking differentials, and 37-inch mud-terrain tires on custom 17-inch beadlock wheels.

Enhancing its capabilities is a Jeep Performance Parts two-inch lift kit from Mopar that increases suspension articulation for an improved approach, breakover, and departure angles.

The concept also comes with Rubicon rock rails, steel bumpers with a Warn winch and a steel belly pan.

Engine mounts have been upgraded and the frame modified to accommodate the massive V8, plus it gets a two-mode exhaust that can change engine notes at the touch of a button.

Ground clearance is 13.25 inches and water wading depth is 34 inches.

Exterior hue is Granite Crystal with bronze accentuated tow hooks, badging, springs, shocks, and wheels. It has a raised performance hood, custom half doors, and the brand’s Sky One-Touch powertop with removable side panels.

The cabin features Red Rock leather bolstered seats with gold stitching and a performance steering wheel.

Photos from Jeep

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