In the off-roading world, the Jeep Wrangler is perhaps the most iconic production model to ever leave the boundaries of the asphalt. While the name Wrangler wasn't used until 1987, the vehicle's history goes back much further. And with more than a half-century of innovation and advancement under its belt, this legendary 4x4 has established itself as the industry's most capable trail tackler.
However, never the type to rest on its laurels, Jeep is always looking for ways to push the envelope. And for evidence, one need only look at the two upcoming powertrains for the Wrangler's top-tier Rubicon trim: the 4xe plug-in hybrid and the 392 HEMI V-8. At first glance, these powertrains appear to be polar opposites. No doubt, there will likely be purists that scoff at the idea of the Wrangler as an environmentally friendly hybrid model. However, the truth is that both are equally compelling options for different reasons. But first, let's look t their specs and stats:
- Rubicon 4xe: Plug-In Hybrid Turbocharged I-4 (375 horsepower; 470 pound-feet of torque) paired to a Rock-Trac® 4×4 system with two-speed transfer case and 4:1 low-range gear ratio
- Rubicon 392: 6.4-Liter HEMI V-8 (470 horsepower; 470 pound-feet of torque) paired to a Selec-Trac 4x4 system with full-time two-speed transfer case and a 2.72 low-range gear ratio
Both models equip 8-speed automatic transmissions, but the 4xe uses an electric motor instead of a standard torque converter and a two-clutch system that allows it to run in electric-only mode. The 392 uses a more traditional automatic paired with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and tuned for maximum launch acceleration.
While the Rubicon 392 is clearly the more powerful of the two, there's no clear winner in terms of superiority, as it all depends on what you're looking for. Both powertrains boast a prodigious 470 pound-feet of torque. However, the 4xe lays it down nearly instantaneously and reaches peak levels around the 3,000 rpm range. This makes it excellent for challenging lower-speed trail maneuvers like rock crawls and hill climbing. And as a hybrid, the 4xe is naturally more efficient, achieving a Jeep-estimated 50 MPGe, 500-mile total range, and 25-mile all-electric range.
The 392 is certainly no slouch in the torque department, but it doesn't reach peak levels until around 4,300 rpm. However, its higher horsepower rating and much lighter curb weight allow it to sprint from zero to 60 mph in an eyebrow-raising 4.5 seconds. So, if you have dreams of rocketing across a dry lake bed as you're serenaded by the melodic roar of a burly V-8, you'll like prefer the 392.
Reserve Your Wrangler Rubicon 4xe or Rubicon 392 near Silver Spring, Potomac, and Vienna
These exciting new Wrangler powertrains aren't available just yet, but their arrival is just around the corner. If you want to be among the first to get behind the wheel, you can pre-order your Wrangler Rubicon 4xe or Rubicon 392 today. Contact Ourisman Jeep in Bethesda for more information. We'll be happy to assist you.