Jeep to Intensify Hemi Engines, Recon Model Set to Debut in November amid Major Improvements
Jeep, the iconic American automaker, is set to broaden the availability of its popular 6.4L HEMI V8 engine, known as the 392, beyond the Wrangler Rubicon 392. This move will see the powerful V8 option become standard or optional in both the Wrangler and the Jeep Gladiator.
Wrangler Rubicon 392 and Gladiator to Benefit from 6.4L HEMI V8
Jeep's CEO, Bob Broderdorf, has confirmed that the Wrangler Rubicon 392, the current flagship V8 model, will remain indefinitely, demonstrating a long-term commitment to V8 power in the Wrangler. As for the Gladiator, official plans are underway to offer a 392 V8 version, bringing the same 6.4L HEMI engine found in the Wrangler Rubicon 392.
Broader Use of the 6.4L HEMI V8 Across Stellantis Models
The 6.4L HEMI V8 engine's future expansion is not limited to Jeep models. Other Stellantis SUVs and trucks, such as the Dodge Durango and Ram 2500, already offer the 6.4L V8 in various trims. This suggests that the 6.4L V8 will continue to serve as a performance and towing powerplant in multiple Jeep and related models.
In related news, Dodge is restoring the ICE Charger for 2026, unveiling Durango Jailbreak and Charger Scat Pack packages.
Jeep's Upcoming Launches
Jeep is gearing up for an exciting period, planning to launch seven vehicles in seven months. This includes the Compass in Europe, Commander in the Middle East, Avenger in South America, and four North American models. In addition, Jeep will launch an updated Grand Cherokee, an all-new Recon, a refreshed Grand Wagoneer for 2026, and a new Cherokee in late 2025, after a 3-year hiatus with the nameplate.
The 2026 Wrangler will offer more personal and customizable versions, including new engine variants such as the Hemi V-8 engine. Meanwhile, the refreshed Grand Wagoneer will boast more power, new tech, style, and more value. Stellantis reported first-half deliveries for Jeep in July rose 2% year-on-year, and Jeep's U.S. sales in 2025 are doing slightly better than in 2024, with positive sales volume for Wrangler, Gladiator, and Compass.
However, details of the 2026 Cherokee are yet to be revealed. Notably, the Hemi engine was discontinued from some Stellantis models under previous leadership due to a focus on raising prices and electrification. But Broderdorf's recent statements indicate a continued need for the Hemi engine, especially considering the need to think globally when considering Jeep models due to still-stringent emissions rules in other parts of the world.
In the context of these developments, it's clear that Jeep is committed to expanding the 6.4L HEMI V8 to the Gladiator and maintaining it in the Wrangler, cementing this engine’s role in their performance and off-road offerings, alongside its continued use in other Stellantis SUVs and trucks.
[1] Jeep. (n.d.). Wrangler Rubicon 392. Retrieved from https://www.jeep.com/suvs/wrangler/models/wrangler-rubicon-392.html
[2] Jeep. (n.d.). Jeep Gladiator. Retrieved from https://www.jeep.com/suvs/gladiator.html
[3] Dodge. (n.d.). Durango SRT. Retrieved from https://www.dodge.com/suvs/durango/models/durango-srt.html
[4] Ram. (n.d.). Ram 2500. Retrieved from https://www.ramtrucks.com/trucks/2500/models/2500-power-wagon.html
- The 6.4L HEMI V8 engine, currently available in the Wrangler Rubicon 392, will also be offered in the Jeep Gladiator, broadening its use within the Jeep lineup.
- Jeep's CEO, Bob Broderdorf, has confirmed that the Wrangler Rubicon 392 will remain in production, demonstrating a long-term commitment to V8 power in the Wrangler and indicating that the car-maintenance aspect of V8 vehicles is valued by the company.
- In addition to the Jeep models, the 6.4L HEMI V8 engine is already available in the Dodge Durango and Ram 2500, suggesting that it serves as a performance and towing powerplant in various SUVs and trucks within the Stellantis group.
- As Jeep prepares to launch seven new vehicles in seven months, electric vehicles are expected to play a significant role in their offerings, alongside the continued use of internal combustion engines, such as the 6.4L HEMI V8, in their performance and off-road models.
