Jeep is gearing up to redefine its legacy with the all-electric Jeep Recon, a vehicle poised to blend the brand’s rugged heritage with cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) technology. Positioned as a modern counterpart to the iconic Land Rover Defender, the Recon aims to capture the essence of Jeep’s off-road prowess while embracing a sustainable future. Jeep UK’s Managing Director, Kris Cholmondeley, has boldly stated that The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender‘, drawing parallels to the transformation seen in the Defender’s evolution from its utilitarian roots to a modern, versatile SUV. This article explores the Recon’s development, specifications, and its potential to reshape Jeep’s place in the competitive off-road market.
A New Chapter for Jeep’s Off-Road Legacy
Jeep has long been synonymous with off-road capability, with the Wrangler standing as the brand’s flagship for tackling trails like the Rubicon. However, as the automotive industry shifts toward electrification, Jeep is adapting to meet new demands. The Recon, expected to hit U.S. dealerships in late 2025, represents a pivotal step in this transition. Unlike the Wagoneer S, Jeep’s first U.S.-bound EV, which leans toward on-road refinement, The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ by prioritising off-road performance in an all-electric package.
The Recon’s development has faced delays, with its debut pushed from 2024 to 2025 due to production adjustments at Stellantis’ Toluca Assembly Plant in Mexico. Despite these setbacks, anticipation remains high. Cholmondeley’s enthusiasm underscores Jeep’s confidence in the Recon, as he highlights its ability to “take everything that’s enduring about the Wrangler and modernise it.” This vision positions The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ as a bridge between Jeep’s storied past and a forward-looking, electrified future.
Design and Features: A Modern Take on Classic Jeep DNA
The Recon draws heavy inspiration from the Wrangler, adopting a boxy, upright silhouette that echoes Jeep’s traditional aesthetic. However, it diverges with a unibody construction based on Stellantis’ STLA Large platform, which supports both 400- and 800-volt electrical architectures. This platform, shared with the Wagoneer S and the upcoming Dodge Charger Daytona, offers flexibility for future powertrain options, including a potential plug-in hybrid variant.
Key design elements include removable doors with exposed hinges, a nod to the Wrangler’s open-air freedom, and Freedom panels that allow for a semi-convertible experience. The Recon’s rugged credentials are bolstered by features like BFGoodrich all-terrain tires (likely 32- or 33-inch), short front and rear overhangs, and ample ground clearance. These attributes ensure The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ in its ability to navigate challenging terrain, from rocky trails to muddy paths.
Inside, the Recon is expected to offer a modern cabin with premium touches, though Jeep has yet to release detailed images. The Uconnect infotainment system will likely include off-road navigation for popular trails, enhancing the Recon’s appeal to adventure seekers. With The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’, Jeep aims to balance rugged utility with contemporary comfort, making it suitable for both wilderness exploration and urban commutes.
Performance and Off-Road Capability
While Jeep has not disclosed official specifications, industry reports suggest the Recon will deliver formidable performance. Equipped with dual Stellantis G2500 Electric Drive Modules (EDMs), the Recon is expected to produce between 450 and 600 horsepower, with standard four-wheel drive. This power output, combined with the instant torque of electric motors, makes The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ in slow, precise rock-crawling scenarios, where smooth power delivery is critical.
The Recon’s off-road arsenal includes Jeep’s Selec-Terrain traction management system, electronic locking differentials, underbody protection, and tow hooks. Its fully independent suspension and adjustable ride height further enhance its versatility, offering a smoother ride on pavement compared to the Wrangler’s solid-axle setup. Cholmondeley emphasized the Recon’s silent operation, which minimizes disturbance to wildlife, reinforcing The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ in environmentally conscious off-roading.
Battery range is another critical factor. Estimates suggest a 90- to 100-kWh battery, delivering approximately 300-350 miles of range under EPA testing, though European sources cite up to 373 miles under less stringent standards. Fast-charging capabilities, enabled by the STLA Large platform, could allow a 5-80% charge in about 28 minutes using a DC fast charger. These specs position The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ as a practical choice for long-distance adventures.
The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’
Jeep’s comparison to the Land Rover Defender is no small claim. The Defender, reimagined in 2019, transformed from a Spartan, body-on-frame off-roader to a unibody SUV with modern amenities and robust off-road capability. Similarly, The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ by modernizing the Wrangler’s ethos. Both vehicles share a unibody construction and independent suspension, departing from their predecessors’ traditional ladder-frame designs. However, while the Defender offers internal-combustion engines, the Recon’s electric powertrain sets it apart, aligning with Jeep’s goal to lead 4×4 electrification globally.
Cholmondeley’s analogy highlights the Recon’s ambition to appeal to a broad audience, from loyal Jeep enthusiasts to new buyers seeking a premium electric off-roader. Yet, the Defender’s starting price of around $60,000 sets a high bar, and The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ must deliver comparable value and performance to compete. With estimated pricing starting at $60,000—potentially qualifying for U.S. federal tax credits if under $80,000—the Recon aims to be a compelling alternative.
Challenges and Market Context
The Recon enters a market where EV adoption has slowed, posing challenges for Jeep. The Wagoneer S, Jeep’s first U.S. EV, has struggled with low sales, prompting discounts and incentives. This lukewarm reception raises questions about whether The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ can sway Jeep’s loyal, often traditionalist customer base, many of whom cherish the Wrangler’s gas-powered heritage.
Jeep’s broader electrification strategy includes offering electrified options across its lineup by 2025, with the Recon as a cornerstone. Stellantis’ “Freedom of Choice” approach allows for flexibility, with potential hybrid or extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) variants for the Recon. This adaptability could mitigate risks if EV demand falters, ensuring The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ remains relevant in diverse markets.
Production challenges also loom. The Recon’s manufacturing at Stellantis’ Toluca plant has been rescheduled to begin in early 2025, with deliveries expected by Q3. Jeep’s ability to meet this timeline and maintain quality will be crucial, especially given recent criticisms of Stellantis’ pricing and dealership experiences. Despite these hurdles, The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ carries the weight of Jeep’s ambition to redefine off-roading for the electric era.
Trims and Availability
The Recon is expected to launch with three trims, catering to varied preferences:
- Willys: An entry-level model with rugged styling and classic Jeep heritage.
- Overland: A blend of adventure and luxury for versatile use.
- Moab: A hardcore off-road variant with 17-inch wheels, 285/70R17 Nexen Roadian ATX tires, and a slight lift for enhanced ground clearance.
Reservations are slated to open by late 2024, with production ramping up in 2025. The Recon will initially launch in North America, followed by global markets like Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Its presence on Jeep’s U.S. website confirms its stateside arrival, a critical market where The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’ aims to make a strong impression.
Looking Ahead: Jeep’s Electrified Future
The Recon is part of Jeep’s broader push toward electrification, with plans for four EVs by 2025, including the Wagoneer S, a compact crossover, and an eventual Wrangler EV. By 2030, Jeep aims for 100% electric sales in Europe, 50% in the U.S., and 20% in South America, reflecting regional differences in EV adoption. The STLA Large platform’s versatility supports this vision, allowing Jeep to adapt to market shifts.
As The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’, it carries significant expectations. Its success will depend on delivering the promised off-road capability, competitive pricing, and a seamless ownership experience. While the Wagoneer S’s struggles highlight the risks, the Recon’s focus on Jeep’s core strengths—ruggedness, capability, and adventure—could resonate with buyers seeking an electric off-roader that doesn’t compromise on heritage.
Conclusion
The Jeep Recon represents a bold step into uncharted territory for a brand rooted in tradition. By positioning The Recon Will Be Jeep’s ‘New Defender’, Jeep aims to capture the spirit of adventure in an electric package, blending the Wrangler’s iconic appeal with modern technology. With its rugged design, advanced off-road features, and promising performance, the Recon has the potential to redefine what an electric off-roader can be. However, its success hinges on overcoming production delays, navigating a skeptical market, and proving its worth against formidable rivals like the Land Rover Defender. As Jeep prepares to unveil the Recon in 2025, the automotive world watches closely to see if it can live up to its ambitious billing.