by New Wrangler Moab 392 Off-Roader
Jeep is celebrating its 85th anniversary in 2026 and kicks off the celebration with the introduction of a model featuring a V8 engine, which is absent from its competitor, the Ford Bronco. The new Moab 392 version combines a powerful V8 with off-road technologies and will be the first in a series of special editions planned by the brand for the coming year.
Key Features of the Moab 392
Design and Inspiration
The model is inspired by the 60th anniversary of the legendary Jeep Easter Safari in Moab, Utah. It features a body-colored hardtop, robust rock rails for stone protection, color-matched fenders, and black tow hooks. The interior features heated seats upholstered in black Nappa leather and a premium Alpine audio system.
The Heart of the Model – The V8 Engine
The main element of the Moab remains the 6.4-liter V8 engine, which was planned to be discontinued back in 2024. However, customer demand kept it in production for 2025, and now it returns in 2026 with the same 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque.
“Our community has voiced its opinion, and we have listened. The 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine will remain a defining force in the Jeep lineup,” stated Jeep CEO Bob Broderdor.
Availability and Future Plans
According to information for the 2026 model year, the Hemi engine is available only in the Moab 392 version, which costs $79,995 plus a $1,995 destination fee, making it $20 thousand cheaper than the 2025 Rubicon 392. The V8 is expected to appear in other special versions dedicated to the brand’s 85th anniversary, including a possible SRT model. The Moab is the first of 12 new Wrangler versions under the Twelve 4 Twelve plan, with the next model debuting on December 12th.
Technical Details
The 392 engine works with a dual-mode sport exhaust system and an air intake with a water separator. It is complemented by an 8-speed ZF 8HP75 automatic transmission with a 4.56:1 final drive ratio and a Selec-Trac transfer case with a 2.72:1 low range. The 17-inch wheels support beadlocks and are fitted with 35-inch off-road tires. A Warn winch can be optionally installed for extreme conditions. The model also features Tru-Lok electronic locking differentials, disconnecting stabilizer bars, and 11.1 inches of ground clearance.
Updates for the Entire Wrangler Lineup
Apart from the special versions, the Wrangler lineup for 2026 has few changes. Jeep has added a new hinge system for quick and easy door removal. The two-door Willys version now offers new steel bumpers and a Warn winch, as well as several new paint colors.
Engines and Hybrid Issues
The three base engines remain unchanged: the 3.6-liter V6 with 285 hp, the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four with 270 hp, and the Hemi, available only for the Moab. The manual transmission is offered only with the V6. The hybrid 4xe version is temporarily unavailable – nearly 230,000 hybrid Wranglers from model years 2020-2025 have been recalled due to a fire risk, and Jeep is still working on resolving the issue.
The popularity of V8 engines among off-road enthusiasts demonstrates that the market still values traditional powerful powertrains, despite the general trend towards electric vehicles and hybrids. The price reduction for the Moab 392 could make this model more accessible to a wider audience, which may positively impact Jeep’s sales in the coming years. However, the absence of hybrid options due to technical problems could pose a temporary challenge for the brand in the context of growing environmental demands.
