The Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 has taken a winding trail since it first rolled onto the scene in 2020. For Jeep, it was more than just another model launch — it marked the return of the V-8 to the Wrangler lineup for the first time in forty years. Under the hood sat a 6.4-liter Hemi V-8, a motor with a reputation for delivering brute strength and an unmistakable growl. For many drivers, it wasn’t just about horsepower — it was about the feeling that came with hearing that deep rumble as the tires bit into dirt, sand, or rock.
When Jeep initially announced that production would end in 2024, fans saw it as the closing of a chapter. The brand even released a “Final Edition” as a send-off, complete with special touches for collectors and die-hard enthusiasts. At that point, it seemed like the V-8 Wrangler would become just another entry in Jeep’s history books — a short-lived powerhouse destined for nostalgia status.
But then something happened. Demand didn’t just remain steady — it stayed strong enough to convince Jeep to rethink its plan. The company extended production for another year, much to the delight of those who missed their chance to grab one. Now, Jeep has gone one step further, confirming that the Rubicon 392 is staying in the lineup yet again.
Jeep brand CEO Bob Broderdorf explained the decision during a media event, pointing to firsthand experiences with Wrangler owners on the legendary Rubicon Trail. “After being out at the Rubicon Trail, it’s clear just how much people love the roar of the 392,” Broderdorf said. “With all that love, how could we 86 the V-8?”
That statement wasn’t just about one model — it hinted at something bigger. Broderdorf confirmed that Jeep isn’t just keeping the Wrangler 392 around, but is looking to spread the Hemi V-8 across more of its lineup. He said that new projects were already in the works, opening the door for speculation about which models might be next. The Grand Cherokee and Wagoneer, both larger SUVs with plenty of room for performance upgrades, seem like obvious candidates for future V-8 power.
The move fits into a larger trend across the Stellantis family. Other brands under the same corporate umbrella have been showing renewed interest in V-8 engines. Ram, for example, recently brought the Hemi back to its popular 1500 pickup truck, and the response was immediate — customers jumped at the chance to get that kind of power in a modern truck again. Dodge has yet to officially announce anything, but industry watchers believe it’s only a matter of time before a Hemi finds its way into the latest Charger.
It’s worth noting that this revival comes at a time when many assumed big V-8s were on the way out, replaced by smaller turbocharged engines or electric powertrains. For years, emissions regulations were tightening, and automakers were preparing for an electric-heavy future. But as some of those rules loosen, there’s a little more breathing room for engines like the Hemi to stick around — at least for now.
As for how long the Wrangler 392 will remain available, Jeep hasn’t given a clear answer. This could still be a model that’s evaluated year by year, depending on market conditions and production capacity. But one thing is clear: the Wrangler 392 has proven itself far more resilient than its early production timeline suggested.
There’s also the question of timing for Jeep’s broader Hemi rollout. If the brand follows Ram’s lead, we could see V-8-powered Jeep SUVs in showrooms as early as next year. That would be welcome news for drivers who want both rugged capability and raw muscle under the hood — a combination that’s becoming increasingly rare in today’s SUV market.
For now, Jeep fans can breathe easy. The V-8 Wrangler isn’t fading into the history books just yet. Instead, it’s gearing up for more trail runs, more road trips, and more moments where that deep exhaust note bounces off canyon walls or echoes through the forest. In a market where change often means compromise, the continued life of the Wrangler 392 is a reminder that some things are worth keeping exactly the way they are.
And if Jeep’s hints about new Hemi-powered models turn into reality, this could be the start of a new chapter — not just for the Wrangler, but for the whole Jeep lineup. The message is simple: the roar of the Hemi still matters, and Jeep isn’t done delivering it.
