Taking the Jeep Wrangler’s go-anywhere capability to a new level, the 2017 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition debuted at the Chicago Auto Show. This Rubicon-only replacement for the current Hard Rock Package matches unique visual cues with a selection of mechanical upgrades. The package will be available on both the Wrangler 2-door and 4-door Wrangler Unlimited.
The new Rubicon Recon Edition features a beefier front axle that has stronger main tubes and heavy-duty end forgings as well as heavy-duty cast front and rear differential covers, a half-inch lift plus shortened off-road rock rails designed to accommodate 35-inch tires. Fitted with the Wrangler’s part-time 4-wheel drive system that includes electronic-locking Dana 44 front/rear axles with 4.10:1 ratios and locking differentials, the new trail-ready Rubicon Recon sends power to each via a Rock-Trac transfer case with a 4:1 low ratio. Equipped with its standard 6-speed manual transmission, the Rubicon Recon Edition boasts an impressive 73.1:1 crawl ratio. However, a somewhat less capable but more convenient 5-speed automatic can be specified as an option to back its 3.6-liter/285-horse Pentastar V6.
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To have it look the part, the new Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition can be had in Black, Bright White, Billet Silver, Firecracker Red, Gobi, Rhino or Granite Crystal matched with a Premium Sunrider soft top or optional color-matched hard top and set off with standard black or extra-cost body-color fender flares, a dual-vented power-dome hood and new 17-inch Low Gloss Granite Crystal-painted aluminum wheels wrapped in 32-inch BF Goodrich KM off-road tires. Bespoke accents include a Low Gloss Black grille with Low Gloss Granite Crystal inserts and headlamp rings, Low Gloss Black off-road bumpers and a selection of badges and decals. A winch-capable steel front bumper with removable end caps along with red front/rear tow hooks round out the kit.
This high-function/high-profile theme extends to the cabin of the new Rubicon Recon Edition where black leather seats and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel team with an enhanced instrument cluster and a unique Electronic Vehicle Information Center that adds a host of supplemental readouts. Also in the Rubicon Recon mix are an 8-speaker premium audio system, remote starter and auto climate control along with Jeep’s Connectivity Group, Power Convenience Group and Satellite Radio. Other distinctive touches include red contrast stitching, accent trim and seatbelts plus Jeep Logo all-weather slush mats.
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“With unmatched capability and a unique appearance, Rubicon Recon is the perfect Wrangler for our most loyal, diehard off-road enthusiasts who love to tackle the most demanding trails,” noted Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global. The 2017 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition will be heading to showrooms later this month. Pricing for the 2-door model will start at $40,140 with the 4-door Wrangler Unlimited version kicking off at $43,940.
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