The Jeep Recon Lives: An Off-Road Icon Reborn

After years of anticipation and swirling rumors about its cancellation, the 2026 Jeep Recon is officially confirmed for production, marking a bold step into the electric off-road segment. This fully electric SUV, drawing clear inspiration from the iconic Wrangler, is scheduled to begin rolling off assembly lines in early 2026, with its initial market launch focused on the United States and Canada.

Jeep has announced some impressive performance figures for the Recon. It is expected to generate a formidable 650 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque, providing the instant power electric vehicles are known for. The estimated driving range is a modest 250 miles on a single charge. With a starting price of $66,995, which includes the destination fee, it will be positioned as a more accessible option compared to the higher-priced Wagoneer S within Jeep’s electric lineup.

A significant question remains: will consumers be willing to pay more than double the price of a standard gasoline-powered Wrangler for this electric alternative? The Recon will likely face similar market challenges as other vehicles in Jeep’s portfolio, which has recently struggled with sluggish sales attributed to high costs and a heavy reliance on large, premium SUVs. However, Jeep is banking on a brand resurgence, pointing to a recent sales quarter that showed improvement even as its parent company, Stellantis, saw declines.

Jeep’s leadership is confident in their electric vision. CEO Bob Broderdorf stated, “With the Jeep Recon, we’re proving that electrification isn’t just compatible with off-road excellence, it can elevate it, delivering instant torque, precision control and a quieter, more connected driving experience that’s uniquely Jeep.”

A core part of the sales strategy hinges on its off-road credentials. The Recon is slated to be the only EV in the brand’s lineup to receive the coveted Trail Rated badge. This certification signifies that the vehicle has passed a demanding series of tests evaluating traction, water fording capability, maneuverability, articulation, and ground clearance. It will be equipped with the Selec-Terrain traction management system, e-locker axle technology, protective under-body skid plates, tow hooks, and dedicated off-road tires.

Potential buyers concerned about the vulnerability of the battery pack during intense off-roading need not worry, according to Jeep. The 100 kWh, 400-volt battery is housed low in the vehicle’s floor and is fully protected by what the company describes as a “full suite of sturdy, high-strength steel underbody shields.”

The Recon’s suspension system combines a short-long arm setup at the front with an integral link at the rear. When equipped with the standard 33-inch tires found on the Moab trim, ground clearance measures approximately 9.1 inches. Its off-road geometry is characterized by a 33.8-degree approach angle, a 33.1-degree departure angle, and a 23.3-degree breakover angle.

In a nod to Wrangler tradition, the Recon will offer a fully open-air experience. Both the doors and the quarter rear-windshield glass can be completely removed, with Jeep emphasizing that “no tools are required.” This feature is currently unique among electric SUVs, setting the Recon apart from competitors like the upcoming Scout models.

Power is delivered through front and rear 250kW electric drive modules (EDMs). Each EDM integrates an electric motor, gearing, and power electronics to provide standard four-wheel drive and immediate torque. The front EDM utilizes an 11:1 final drive ratio in an open differential design, which Jeep says contributes to a balanced driving feel. Furthermore, the front axle includes automatic disconnects at each wheel to enhance energy efficiency and extend range during typical on-road driving when rear-wheel propulsion is sufficient.

This theme of customizability extends to the interior. The cabin features modular door panels with removable elastic straps and interchangeable cargo configurations. With the second-row seats folded down, the cargo area offers 65.9 cubic feet of space, while the front trunk provides a more compact 3.0 cubic feet, adequate for a carry-on suitcase.

Inside, drivers are greeted by a completely new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a large 14.5-inch central touchscreen in a landscape orientation. Jeep boasts this provides “the largest singular usable digital screen space ever offered in a Jeep vehicle.” While climate control functions are managed through the touchscreen, a physical volume knob is retained. The overall design is described as a “sleek, buttonless” interface that merges futuristic aesthetics with practical usability. The infotainment system operates on Stellantis’ Uconnect 5 software and includes exclusive applications like Jeep’s Trails Offroad, a detailed guide to off-road trails across North America complete with pitch and roll mapping.

The Recon’s journey to market has not been without delays; it was originally slated for a 2024 release. This postponement means it will miss out on eligibility for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, a financial incentive that could have softened the impact of its high starting price. Despite this, the model’s survival through recent executive leadership changes at Stellantis, where Carlos Tavares was succeeded by former Jeep head Antonio Filosa, is seen as a positive sign.

During an interview last year at the Wagoneer S launch, Filosa expressed a commitment to eventually producing a $25,000 electric Jeep. The Recon is not that affordable model, but it represents a crucial step toward a future where a more budget-friendly electric Jeep could become a reality.

(Source: The Verge)