Jeep’s legendary Wrangler line reaches a milestone with its 2024 Rubicon 392 Final Edition, marking the end of an era as the last V8-powered model in the series. The limited-production vehicle represents both a celebration of raw power and a reflection of changing automotive priorities, delivering an impressive 470 horsepower while commanding an equally striking price tag of $101,890.
Standing as a testament to Jeep’s heritage of combining rugged capability with modern luxury, the Final Edition showcases the evolution of the brand from its military roots to its current status as a premium off-road vehicle manufacturer. The heart of this special edition is its formidable 6.4-liter HEMI V8 engine, producing 470 lb-ft of torque alongside its matching horsepower figure, creating what might be described as a full-size Hot Wheels for adults.
The exclusivity of this model has already generated some controversy, as Jeep recently announced an extension of production into 2025 due to “popular demand,” potentially diluting the “Final Edition” designation. This decision has raised eyebrows among collectors and enthusiasts who invested in what they believed would be a strictly limited 2024 production run of 3,700 units.
True to its Rubicon heritage, the Final Edition comes equipped with an arsenal of off-road capabilities. The vehicle boasts a full-time four-wheel-drive system with low range, locking differentials, and an electronic front sway-bar disconnect. Additional features include heavy-duty rock sliders, beadlock-capable wheels, and an impressive 11.6 inches of ground clearance. A factory-installed 8,000-pound capacity Warn winch adds practical utility for serious trail adventures.
Despite its aggressive off-road orientation, Jeep has lavished the interior with premium amenities. The cabin features heated seats and steering wheel, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and adaptive cruise control. A clever exhaust control system allows drivers to moderate the V8’s signature rumble during highway cruising, making long-distance travel more pleasant than typically expected from a Wrangler.
The vehicle’s exterior styling matches its mechanical prowess, with an imposing presence enhanced by lifted suspension and a functional hood scoop. The available Earl Clear Coat paint finish adds a sophisticated touch to the rugged design, though the overall aesthetic definitely commands attention – for better or worse – wherever it travels.
However, the Final Edition’s impressive capabilities come with significant compromises. The six-figure price tag pushes this Wrangler into luxury vehicle territory, with our test model reaching $108,475 when equipped with options like the retractable soft-top and integrated air compressor. The premium touches, including Mayan gold stitched Nappa leather seats and a Mopar triple-loop grille guard, might seem excessive to traditional Jeep enthusiasts.
Perhaps more concerning is the vehicle’s fuel consumption, which proved particularly challenging during urban driving. While highway cruising returned reasonable efficiency for a V8-powered off-roader, city driving produced shocking results, with some testing in Brooklyn yielding just five miles per gallon. This thirsty performance serves as a stark reminder of why manufacturers are moving away from large-displacement engines.
The Wrangler Rubicon 392 Final Edition represents a fascinating intersection of old-school automotive enthusiasm and modern luxury expectations. It delivers an experience that’s simultaneously refined and raw, sophisticated and primitive. For collectors and enthusiasts who can afford the steep entry price and ongoing fuel costs, it offers a compelling blend of capability and comfort that may never be replicated in the electric age.
As the automotive industry continues its decisive shift toward electrification, the Final Edition stands as both a celebration and a farewell to a particular kind of American vehicle – one that prioritized character and capability over efficiency. While its practical limitations are impossible to ignore, its emotional appeal and historical significance make it a noteworthy finale to Jeep’s V8 chapter.
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