Return of the Jeep Wrangler “shorty” will please fans

IT’S BEEN MORE THAN five years since Jeep fans could buy the “shorty” model. Always a purer version of the Jeep for aficionados, the reintroduction into the range will be welcomed.

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon is the first special edition Jeep JL Wrangler and will be available in an exclusive run of 100 units, comprising 60 four-door and 40 two-door models.

The special edition model adds distinctive exterior appointments including a matte black hood and fender vent decals, black grille, and painted black 17-inch wheels. The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon’s off-road credentials are strengthened with the addition of a steel front bumper fitted with a Jeep Performance Parts “Bumper Hoop” and a Jeep Performance Parts “Tailgate Reinforcement System”. The optional “Recon Premium Package” adds a body colour three-piece freedom hardtop roof, and body colour fender flares.

Further enhancements include the interior of the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon, with Torch-Red seat belts, matched with a premium-wrapped instrument mid-panel and red stitching. The cabin allows for ultimate comfort featuring standard black leather seats, heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The Trail-Rail Management System is fitted in the rear to help secure possessions.

“A two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon continues to be a much-desired proposition amongst the Australian off-roading community, and we’re so excited to make this dream a reality with the Recon special edition,” said Guillaume Drelon, Jeep Australia Director, Brand & Product Strategy. “It offers the everyday practicality many seek, whilst remaining adventure ready.”

“The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon is rugged, off-road ready and the most capable 4×4 straight off the showroom floor. It is truly up to any challenge passionate 4×4 enthusiasts throw at it.”

Well-equipped interior and rugged as well

Earlier this year, the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon was named 4×4 of the Year at the annual Australian Motoring Awards. Unstoppable on even the toughest terrain, the class leading Rock-Trac 4×4 system features heavy duty next-generation Dana 44 front and rear axles with a “4LO” ratio of 4:1.

The latest iteration of the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon offers improved articulation and total suspension travel versus the previous generation with help from an electronic sway-bar disconnect. It also boasts an impressive crawl ratio of 77.2:1 which makes scaling any obstacle on the trail easy. The Rock-Trac 4×4 system offers full-time torque management, enabling optimal grip in low-traction conditions.

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon is available to order now from dealerships nationwide, starting at $66,950 (plus on road costs). First customer deliveries are expected early Q4 2020.

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon standard equipment highlights:

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon edition is based on the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 3.6L. The features below are in addition to or replacing standard Rubicon specification unless otherwise specified.

Exterior

  • 17-inch Machined and Black Painted Wheels
  • Gloss Black Exterior Grille
  • Matte Black
    • Hood Decal
    • Fender Vent Decal
  • Recon Hard Badge (on side fender)
  • Rubicon Steel Front Bumper
  • Jeep Performance Tailgate Reinforcement System
  • Jeep Performance Bumper Hoop

Interior

  • “Torch-Red” Seat Belts
  • Premium-wrapped instrument mid-panel with red stitching
  • Black Leather-Trimmed Seats
  • Heated Front Seats
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Trail-Rail Management System (4-Dr Variant only)

Options

  • Recon Premium Package
    • Body-Colour Three-Piece Freedom Hard Top
    • Body-Colour Fender Flares

*Specifications are indicative and based on the current available information

Model Engine Trans Drive Power Fuel Price*
2-Dr Rubicon Recon 3.6L V6 8AT 4×4 209kW Petrol $66,950
4-Dr Rubicon Recon 3.6L V6 8AT 4×4 209kW Petrol $71,450

Price does not include on road costs

Option
Premium Paint $745
Recon Premium Package $3,000

The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon is available in eight exterior paint options:

  • Bright White
  • Black
  • Firecracker Red
  • Ocean Blue
  • Granite Crystal
  • Sting Gray
  • Sarge Green
  • Hella Yella

Once we have tested and assessed the new Jeep Rubicon Recon, seniordriveraus will bring you a comprehensive review, including everything the over-50 driver needs to know.