In the last year of its run, the immensely popular JK Wrangler platform will get another special edition version for 2017 to send out the Jeep in style. The Rubicon Recon is designed to offer even more off-road capability thanks to a beefed-up front axle, and it also gets unique styling cues to make it stand out in a crowd of JKs.
The Rubicon Recon is based on the Wrangler Rubicon, but it features a Dana 44 that features strengthened tubes and heavy-duty end forgings, heavy-duty cast front and rear differential covers and “enhanced” rock rails that are shortened so the Jeep can easily accommodate 35-inch tires. The Recon also comes equipped with Rubicon features such as electronic-locking front and rear Dana 44 axles.
The Rubicon Recon also features the Wrangler’s part-time four-wheel-drive system, with the low range handled by the Rubicon’s Rock-Trac transfer case a low range of 4:1. The Wrangler 4.10 front and rear axle ratio is standard as well. The Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition comes with a manual six-speed transmission to provide it with a 73.1:1 crawl ratio for serious low-speed rock crawling.
“With an array of beefed up off-road components, the new Rubicon Recon provides even more legendary Jeep Wrangler capability,” said Mike Manley, Head of Jeep Brand – FCA Global. “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.”
The Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition also features a half-inch lift, new 17-inch Low Gloss Granite Crystal-painted aluminum wheels, 32-inch BFGoodrich KM2 off-road tires, and it offers optional body-color fender flares and a dual-vented Power Dome hood. The Recon also features distinctive cues that includes a Low Gloss Black grille with Low Gloss Granite Crystal inserts and headlamp rings, Low Gloss Black off-road bumpers and special Jeep badge with a red base. The steel front bumper can accommodate a winch, and Jeep notes the end caps can be removed for improved clearance on the trail.
The Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition will be available in seven colors that includes Black, Bright White, Billet Silver, Firecracker Red, Gobi, Rhino and Granite Crystal. Jeep says the 2017 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon Edition will makes its way into dealerships later this month. The MSRP of the two-door model is $39,145, while the MSRP for the four-door Unlimited model is $42,945.
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