by Aiden Eksteen
电气化是expeditiously taking over the world of automation, yet Jeep saw it fit to give one last hoorah by debuting the first V8-powered Wrangler the US has seen in 40 years - the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392. Beneath the heavyset hood of the new Rubicon 392 SUV is a powerful V8 unit that's been dialed to thrum out 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. It's one of the only V8-powered SUVs out there but will soon be challenged by an all-newFord BroncoWarthog andLand Rover Defender. As with any other Wrangler, the Rubicon 392 is a proficient off-roader but it has the added benefit of muscle car-like power and spirit with its V8, custom Fox suspension, and larger brakes. While it does come with plenty of comforts and conveniences as standard, the Rubicon is very expensive, and if the character of the V8 doesn't bear any allure for you, one of the regular Wrangler's may be more to your liking. They still deliver ample, down-to-earth performance, as well as better fuel efficiency and lower prices. Though it may not look it, the 2021 Rubicon 392 is one of the most exclusive Wrangler's, and since it may be the last of its kind, now might be your last chance to nab one.
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 is an all-new model based on the 4-door Rubicon. This makes it a first-generation, even though it is based on an established nameplate. It's powered by a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter V8 engine and sports an upgraded suspension and brakes. This model serves as the halo in the Wrangler range and comes standard with many features that you'll only find on the options list of standard Wranglers, including 33-inch tires on beadlock-capable 17-inch wheels, a two-inch factory lift, and heavy-duty Dana 44 axles.
See trim levels and configurations:
Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Price (MSRP) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Rubicon 392 Unlimited |
6.4L V8 Gas |
8-Speed Automatic |
Four-Wheel Drive |
$74,795 |
You'll see the Wrangler Rubicon 392 as either an amazing last tribute to enthusiasts and gearheads or an exercise in sheer, indulgent excess as a vehicle that has too much power to even utilize and a rather exorbitant starting price. Whatever the case, the 392 is certainly an entertaining SUV to drive and one that's very proficient off the beaten path. Unfortunately, it doesn't handle very well at all on the road as it doesn't have an independent suspension setup, which makes its 470 horsepower a tad bit frightening. One of the regular Wranglers may be a bit more pragmatic for someone looking for a livable or versatile Jeep to drive on a regular basis or even just use as the occasional off-roader.
Neither the NHTSA nor the IIHS has subjected the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 to a complete review for its safety. with both having just evaluated it in a few areas. It scored well in those tests and it carries some decent reliability expectations. If you're looking to get possibly one of the last V8-powered SUVs America will see for the rest of time, then the Wrangler Rubicon 392 will certainly be a special addition to your garage. The alternatives are few and far between but they don't offer quite the same level of novelty and character.
There is just one version of the Rubicon 392 SUV and there aren't many notable packages or accessories. It is, however, worth determining whether or not the Rubicon 392 is really that much better than the regular Wrangler Rubicon. At $74,795, the price of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 SUV is around $10,000 more than a V6 Rubicon, which has more torque on tap than the 392. That is even with the automatic transmission, a body-colored hardtop, fancier alloy wheels, and the necessary feature packages that outfit it to the same level as the 392. So, you'll essentially be paying $10,000 more just for the V8 engine, bragging rights, and exclusivity that comes with owning a Rubicon 392.
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