The New V8 Jeep Wrangler Leaves the Ford Bronco Behind
Jeep just said checkmate to Ford, with the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392. Critics are calling it the powerful off-roading SUV they have been waiting for, which completely dismisses the new Ford Bronco.
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon finally has a V8
There hasn’t been an official V8 Jeep Wrangler in decades. Back in the day, in 1981, when the Wrangler was still a civilian Jeep (CJ), it had an optional V8 from American Motors Corporation (AMC).
But things have changed since 1981, and now the Jeep Wrangler has a 6.2-liter HEMI V8. According to AutoBlog, the engine provides 479 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. The most potent 2021 Ford Bronco engine is the 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 EcoBoost option with 310 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. So, that’s a huge difference.
Jeep is confident that the 392 Rubicon will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, which sounds incredibly fast for a Jeep. The fastest Ford Bronco should reach 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, But both of these SUVs need to hit the track for official testing.
What we know about the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392
Aside from the potent engine, we know that the Rubicon 392 will be offered exclusively in a four-door Jeep model. Also, it won’t be available with a manual transmission. So, that’s a little disappointing.
Along with being the fastest Jeep ever, it will also be the loudest, thanks to its dual-mode exhaust system. Plus, it will come with a Selec-Trac full-time four-wheel-drive system. Now we can get into capabilities.
As the most capable Jeep Wrangler ever, the Rubicon 392 will have a 10.3-inch ground clearance. This is half an inch less than the regular Rubicon, but the suspension and articulation have been improved to provide an approach angle of 44.5 degrees, departure angle of 37.5 degrees, and break over angle of 22.6 degrees.
The 2021 Ford Bronco has an approach angle of 43.2 degrees, departure angle of 37 degrees, and break over angle of 26.3 degrees. The Ford Bronco also has a water fording depth of 33.3-inches, while the Rubicon 392 has a water fording depth of 32.5-inches.
Under the hood, the Rubicon 392 has a unique air induction system that can divert up to 15 gallons of water per minute from the engine. A secondary intake also keeps this beast running even if the functional hood scoop is blocked by mud.
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 features
The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 has upgraded frame rails and front upper control arms, cast iron steering knuckles, and heavy-duty Dana 44 axles in the front and rear. The rear axles feature thicker axle tubes and Tru-Lok electronically locking rear differentials.
You’ll notice that it has half doors, like the Ford Bronco. These doors will be offered with each Wrangler trim. Also, it will have the Sky One-Touch Power Top, meaning with the press of a button, you’ll be enjoying fresh air.
The interior has the familiar 8.4-inch Uconnect system with off-roading paged for vehicle stats. The steering wheel also has aluminum paddle shifters. What we don’t know is how much the 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 will cost or how long it will take to place the same engine in the Jeep Gladiator.
