Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 Review: A V8-Powered Celebration of Excess

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 is what happens when Jeep decides to let its engineers have some serious fun. Imagine a Wrangler, the rugged off-road icon we all know, and then add a 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine under the hood. The result is a vehicle that feels like an exhilarating mix of muscle car and rock crawler. A loud, brash, and wildly entertaining SUV that is unapologetically over the top.

A V8 That Roars

The headline feature here is the engine, and it deserves every ounce of the spotlight. The 6.4-liter HEMI V8 churns out 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque—numbers that feel utterly ridiculous when you consider that this is a Jeep Wrangler we’re talking about. On the road, it rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. That’s faster than many sports cars, and you feel every bit of that power with each press of the throttle.

But it’s not just about raw speed. It’s also about the sound. The dual-mode exhaust system gives the Rubicon 392 a deep, growling soundtrack that’s as exhilarating as it is attention-grabbing. Whether you’re blasting down the highway or crawling over boulders, the V8’s roar makes every moment feel cinematic.

Off-Road Royalty

A Wrangler is only as good as its off-road chops, and the Rubicon 392 doesn’t disappoint. It comes equipped with 35-inch all-terrain tires, locking differentials, an electronic sway bar disconnect, and a full-time 4WD system. Whether you’re tackling muddy trails, steep inclines, or rocky paths, the Rubicon 392 feels unstoppable.

Jeep even raised the air intake with a Hydro-Guide system to ensure the engine can breathe even when fording through up to 32.5 inches of water. It’s overkill, sure, but isn’t that the whole point?

Living With the Beast

Driving the Rubicon 392 on pavement can be challenging for some drivers. Its off-road suspension and hefty weight result in a bumpy ride, with sharp turns feeling more deliberate than nimble. In city driving, its wide stance and imposing size require extra caution, especially when navigating tight spaces or parking. While it’s not built for agility, the sheer thrill of knowing you’re driving a V8-powered beast more than makes up for the pavement quirks.

With an EPA rating of 13 mpg in the city and 16 mpg on the highway, trips to the gas station will be frequent. However, for those who relish the power and performance, it’s a price worth paying.

Inside the Cabin

Step inside the Rubicon 392, and you’ll find a cabin designed to withstand anything the trail throws at you. The interior strikes a balance between rugged functionality and refined comfort, featuring durable materials capable of withstanding mud and debris. Jeep thoughtfully includes all-weather floor mats and washable surfaces, making post-adventure clean-ups hassle-free. The seats offer impressive support, with optional leather upholstery adding a luxurious touch. The upright windshield and iconic boxy design provide excellent visibility, ensuring confidence whether you’re navigating rocky terrain or cruising through the city.

Cargo space is another area where the Rubicon 392 proves its practicality. The rear cargo area is spacious enough to handle gear for a weekend adventure, with foldable rear seats that allow for additional room when needed. While rear passengers might find legroom a bit tight, the upright design and open cabin layout ensure that loading and accessing items is straightforward, even with the top down. This design reflects Jeep's effort to balance off-road prowess with practical usability for day-to-day adventures.

Infotainment and Tech

Jeep has stepped up its game when it comes to technology, and the Rubicon 392’s infotainment system is a standout. The 12.3-inch touchscreen, powered by the latest Uconnect software, is fast, intuitive, and packed with features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. Off-road-specific tools such as pitch-and-roll displays, trail maps, and a front-facing camera make this system indispensable for adventure. The optional Alpine premium audio setup provides crisp, immersive sound, while physical buttons and knobs for climate and audio controls are a thoughtful touch for rugged use.

The Rubicon 392 also offers a suite of driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and parking assist. These features enhance safety and usability, making the Rubicon 392 more manageable on highways and in urban settings while complementing its rugged off-road capabilities.

Who Is This For?

Let’s be clear: the Rubicon 392 isn’t for everyone. It’s expensive, starting at over $80,000, and it’s not exactly practical as a daily driver. The fuel economy is dismal, the ride is rough, and the exhaust is downright obnoxious if you’re not in the mood for it.

For those who crave a vehicle capable of making a grand entrance at a Cars and Coffee meet before tackling the trails of Moab, the Rubicon 392 is a perfect choice. The Rubicon 392 caters more to desires than to necessities, embodying the essence of indulgence. It’s an SUV that doesn’t make compromises, and in today’s world of hybrids and EVs, that feels refreshingly rebellious.

Final Thoughts

It’s also worth noting that the Rubicon 392 marks the final edition of Jeep’s V8-powered Wrangler. This serves as a poignant farewell to an era of roaring engines and raw power as the industry shifts toward electrification. For Jeep enthusiasts, this vehicle represents the culmination of decades of rugged performance and iconic design. It’s more than just a machine; it’s a symbol of freedom, adventure, and the unrelenting spirit of exploration that has defined Jeep for generations. This final V8 edition serves as both a celebration and a rallying cry for what makes Jeep a legend in the automotive world.

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 is absurd, impractical, and excessive. That’s exactly why it’s so much fun. It takes the Wrangler’s legendary off-road capability and injects it with a healthy dose of adrenaline, creating a vehicle that unapologetically embraces its bold character. If you’re looking for subtlety or sensibility, this isn’t your ride. But if you’re after a machine that delivers sheer excitement every time you fire up that V8, the Rubicon 392 is your perfect match.