by Michael Satterfield - Photos by Lucas Kepner - 07/15/2024
The Jeep Wrangler has been the true flagship of the Jeep brand, beloved for its off-road prowess is a testament to the American spirit and the thirst for adventure. The 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 Final Edition is the zenith of this lineage, a swan song that roars louder and runs harder than any of its predecessors. This vehicle is not just an off-road machine; it’s a celebration of power, heritage, and engineering excellence. This Jeep is a six-figure beast… and worth every penny.
At the heart of the Rubicon 392 lies its pièce de résistance: the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine. An engine shoehorned into nearly every Stellantis chassis, the high-performance marvel of modern engineering produces a staggering 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. It's the kind of engine that doesn’t just start—it awakens with a deep, throaty growl that commands attention and makes you smile each time you punch the accelerator pedal.
On the road, this translates to a 0-60 mph sprint in just 4.5 seconds, which seems almost paradoxical for a vehicle of this size and nature. Yet, the Rubicon 392 handles this feat with aplomb, and its power delivery is smooth and unrelenting. Of course, only Jeep review would be complete with thoroughly exploring its off-road capabilities. The Rubicon 392 does not disappoint. Equipped with a full-time Selec-Trac two-speed transfer case, Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials, and a disconnecting front sway bar, this Jeep is designed to easily conquer the most challenging terrains.
The 33-inch BFGoodrich All-Terrain KO2 tires provide excellent grip on loose surfaces, while the high-performance FOX shocks ensure that the Rubicon 392 maintains its composure over rough trails. The increased ground clearance, courtesy of the 2-inch lift, allows the Jeep to tackle steep inclines and deep ruts without sweat.
On rocky paths, the Rubicon 392 showcases its crawling capabilities, with the V8 engine offering ample low-end torque to navigate obstacles at a snail's pace. The Hill Descent Control and Off-Road Plus Mode further enhance its off-road arsenal, allowing precise control in demanding situations. This Jeep is not just built to travel over tough terrain but to dominate it.
While the Rubicon 392 is a killer in the off-road arena, it also brings a surprising refinement to on-road driving. The adaptive damping system adjusts the suspension to provide a smoother ride on paved surfaces, reducing the harshness typically associated with off-road vehicles. Though still rugged and capable, the steering is precise enough to make highway driving a relatively comfortable experience. We took it on a road trip to Austin for a few days and were shocked at how well it performed on the highway.
The eight-speed automatic transmission is responsive and intuitive, seamlessly shifting through gears whether accelerating on the highway or crawling over boulders. The Rubicon 392’s brakes are equally impressive, with large discs that provide ample stopping power and a firm, reassuring pedal feel.
Stepping inside the Rubicon 392, you're greeted by a cabin that blends traditional Jeep ruggedness with modern amenities. The premium leather seats offer both comfort and support, with the Rubicon 392 logo proudly embossed on the headrests. The driver’s seat is power-adjustable, ensuring a comfortable driving position for long journeys or intense off-road excursions.
The dashboard features an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system powered by Uconnect, which is one of the most user-friendly interfaces in the industry. It offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation, ensuring that you're always connected and informed. The premium audio system by Alpine provides crystal-clear sound, whether you’re listening to your favorite tunes or the roar of the HEMI V8.
Practicality hasn’t been forgotten, either. The rear seats offer ample legroom for passengers, and the cargo area is spacious enough to accommodate all your gear for a weekend adventure. The interior also features numerous storage compartments, including a lockable center console and glove box, ensuring your valuables are secure even when exploring. You also get a table that folds out of the rear tailgate, which also houses the air compressor system for when you are out on the trail and need to add some air back into the tires before hitting the highway again.
The exterior of the Rubicon 392 is as bold as the engine it houses. The aggressive front grille, flanked by LED headlights, immediately sets the tone for this vehicle. The hood, with its functional air scoop, looks menacing and helps keep the engine cool during intense driving sessions.
The wide fender flares and rock rails add to the Jeep’s rugged appearance, while the Rubicon 392 decals remind onlookers that this is no ordinary Wrangler. The Final Edition also features exclusive badging and unique paint options, allowing owners to showcase their Jeep’s special status.
Jeep has equipped the Rubicon 392 with modern safety and driver-assistance technologies. Forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring are all standard, providing an extra layer of security on both road and trail. The rearview camera, with its dynamic gridlines, makes parking this beast less daunting.
The Off-Road Pages app, accessible through the infotainment system, offers real-time data on pitch, roll, altitude, and drivetrain status, providing invaluable information when navigating difficult terrain. This feature underscores Jeep’s commitment to integrating modern technology with traditional off-road capability.
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 Final Edition is a fitting farewell to an era that we are sad to see come to an end. It is the polar opposite of the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe plugin hybrid in terms of both style and feel. It’s a vehicle that embodies the spirit of adventure, combining raw power with unparalleled off-road capability. Yet, it’s also a vehicle that recognizes the demands of modern driving, offering a level of refinement and technology that makes it as comfortable on the highway as it is competent on the trail.
In a world where SUVs are increasingly becoming more urban chic and less about rugged capability, the Rubicon 392 stands as a defiant roar of tradition, power, and the indomitable spirit of adventure. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the road less traveled is the one that leads to the most memorable journeys.
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