JEEP GLADIATOR 392 AND XTREME RECON MAY NOT HAPPEN

The Jeep Wrangler 392 is this wicked combination of incredible off-road capability, and being able to lay claim as the only V8 convertible in the world with removable doors. It’s an experience that’s unmatched by any other vehicle, even the likes of the Ram 1500 TRX. It has an unparalleled raucousness that will deliver a slap-happy smile among even the most cynical among us. It’s an experience that should be scaled and mass produced as much as possible. Unfortunately, that may never be the case. Jeep Gladiator fans that may have been hopeful that the Toledo-built truck would also get the 392 Hemi V8 treatment will be upset to hear that it’s unlikely to happen, despite loud-and-clear demand. The same goes for the Xtreme Recon package which integrates 35-inch tires from the factory.

Jeep Gladiator 392, Xtreme Recon Packages Unlikely

Head of Jeep Jim Morrison recently had an interview with Motor Authority at the 2022 New York auto show, and he didn’t hold back any punches when it came to some of the information he provided. On the topic of a 392 V8 tucked under the hood of a Gladiator, Morrison outright stated that he doesn’t know if “we’ll ever see a 392 in the Gladiator”. According to the executive, the Gladiator is only about one-third of Wrangler’s volume.

We’re sure there are other factors at play here (like the French commandeering FCA, governments going full electric, and inflation), but yes, the Gladiator doesn’t quite match up to the Wrangler’s take rate.

This is the same case for the idea of a Jeep Gladiator Xtreme Recon package with 35-inch tires coming straight from the factory. However, Morrison did note that Jeep will continue to offer larger tires and different wheels through the Jeep Performance Parts division. On the subject of larger tires, it seems that 37-inch tires are on the table for the Wrangler 4xe. Morrison noted that the tires found on the Wrangler 4xe in Moab at the 2022 Easter Jeep Safari were his favorite package, and when taking it off-roading, he “couldn’t find a place where I couldn’t make that go.” The 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor will become standard with 37s, but Jeep hasn’t offered them so far, and only recently offered 35-inch tires with the Xtreme Recon.

Keeping with the subject of 4xe’s, Morrison wouldn’t directly confirm the plug-in hybrid Gladiator would be coming or when. However, we know Jeep plans on adding electrification to all of their vehicles by 2025, and it’s likely we’ll see the Gladiator 4xe enter Jeep’s lineup for the 2024 model year.