New Jeep Wrangler HEMI V8: Engine, Specs, Features, Price. Genuine body-on-frame SUVs live again. In just a few years ago, many believed that the remaining BoF models will be completely replaced with crossovers. Off-road enthusiasts can’t accept this fact, so even the outdated Toyota 4Runner makes the highest sales ratings in its history. The legendary Ford Bronco is back, so Jeep needed a quick response. It came in the form of a Jeep Wrangler HEMI V8
This model was first presented as a concept last summer and now we can enjoy the production version. Fortunately, things aren’t much different in the mass-production version. It comes with a mightful V8 engine, but also comes with all kinds of upgrades, both in terms of aesthetics and mechanics. Jeep promises not just high speeds, but exceptional off-road performances as well. The former is obvious, given the amount of power. The latter is also pretty obvious, give the models reputation.
Jeep Wrangler HEMI V8 Off-Road Features
Although the new engine is without any doubt the highlight of Jeep Wrangler HEMI V8, this isn’t just a regular Wrangler with a more powerful engine. It is based on the model’s most capable version, Rubicon, and comes with a full load of off-road goodies. The chassis has been reinforced, while Dana 44 axles rear and front come with thicker axle tubes. You may count on electronic locking differentials and an electronic disconnect for the front sway bar, while the huge engine size promises a massive engine brake.
Of course, you may count on low-range gear ration, as well as on four selectable drive modes– 4WD Auto, 4WD High, Neutral, and 4WD Low. Of course, massive 33-inch tires are standard, mounted on heavy-duty 17-inch rims.
Jeep Wrangler HEMI V8 Engine
Of course, the most interesting feature of this version is obviously under the hood. For the first time in four decades, Wrangler comes with a V8 engine in the offer. The model is called Wrangler Rubicon 392 and as the name says, it features the largest HEMI engine FCA currently has in the offer, a well-known 6.4-liter naturally-aspirated unit.
In the concept version, this engine was tuned to 450 horsepower and the production version is even more impressive, is it gains 20 more horses. The max torque is also rated at 470 pound-feet, so it’s obvious that we are talking about the fastest Wrangler ever. According to the manufacturer, this version needs just 4.5 seconds to hit 60 miles per hour, while the quarter-mile time goes around 13 seconds.
The engine comes in pair with a familiar 8-speed automatic transmission and for the first time in Wrangler, you get paddle shifters.
Exterior and Interior
Visually, you can notice a lot of exclusive details on the Jeep Wrangler HEMI V8, which clearly accentuates the model’s capabilities. We already mentioned off-road tires and large wheels, while you may also count on a full load of “392” badge around the vehicle. There is a new grille layout and a revised hood, all designed to provide plenty of fresh air for the engine and brakes.
Exclusive details can be found on the inside as well and once again, the first thing that you will notice is a full load of badges, as well as a new instrument cluster. The list of standard features includes leather trim, the Infotainment Group, Safety and Advanced Safety Groups, body-colored hardtop etc. Of course, there is also a plethora of unique accessories in the offer.
Jeep Wrangler HEMI V8 Release Date and Price
We expect to see Jeep Wrangler HEMI V8 on sale in the next few weeks, by the end of January. The exact price is still to be announced but we expect a price tag slightly under 60.000 dollars.
The rest of the Jeep Wrangler range is about to carry on in the same way. You may count on two more gasoline engines in the offer, one diesel and a PHEV version in the offer. While the new Jeep Wrangler HEMI V8 will come exclusively in the 4-door variant, the rest of the models will be available in 2-door versions as well. The base price goes around 28.000 dollars for the two-door model and 32.000 dollars for the 4-door version.
