Jeep Recon: Electric Wrangler replacement arrives with 641bhp

Jeep has taken the covers off its Recon EV, promising real off-road ability and zero emissions driving.

The latest EV from the famous American 4×4 brand promises to bring its famous rugged attitude to zero-emissions motoring, and is slated to arrive in Europe and the UK in late 2026 as a replacement for the Wrangler, which is being forced out due to emissions regulations.

Described by Jeep as “roomy, rugged and ready for anything”, the Recon is the first EV to receive the brand’s “trail rated” approval – a tough test of off-road capabilities to ensure it can live up to Jeep’s tough reputation.

At the heart of the Recon is a twin-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain delivering up to 641bhp and 620lb ft. All that power means it can sprint from 0-62mph in just 3.7 seconds, although presumably not off road.

To ensure it hits the trail-rated standard, the Recon features an electronic locking rear differential and bulked up suspension steering and drivetrain components as well as a bespoke Select-Terrain traction management system with modes for snow and sand as well as a on-road focused sport setting.

There’s also robust underbody protection for the battery. That 100kWh unit should provide up to 250 miles of range under the United States’ tough EPA tests. That’s likely to translate to more than 300 on the European-standard WLTP test. While Jeep hasn’t quoted an official figure, we’d guess it’ll charge at at least 160kW.

Visually, the Recon sticks with what Jeep knows best – big and boxy, with that famous segmented grille. That grille is illuminated for the first time and other modern touches include flush-fit “e-handles” and full LED lights but this still looks like an old-school Jeep.

Channelling the spirit of the Wrangler, the Jeep Recon features removable doors, a removable roof panel and removable rear glass for a properly open-air experience on the trails. To make sure passengers can enjoy their music even with the doors off, the Recon’s speakers are mounted under the seats – part of a “forward-thinking” cabin that blends modern tech with durable, trail-friendly materials.

There’s definitely a tech-heavy feel, with a 14.5-inch touchscreen controlling most functions, and big digital dials. Proper physical switches remain for the off-road controls, though, and there are bungee-strap door pockets and even a modular accessory rail in the dash for mounting cameras, GPS kit or rubber duck holders (it’s a Jeep thing).

Sadly, only the US and Canada will get the Moab specification, which features 33-inch tyres, a Rock driving mode and “Joshua Tree” tan interior.

“The 2026 Jeep Recon is a bold step forward for the brand, an all-electric SUV that stays true to our core values of freedom, adventure and capability. said Jeep CEO Bob Broderdorf. “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.”

The Jeep Recon will go on sale in the US and Canada early next year with a global roll-out, including the UK, in the final quarter of 2026.

When it arrives it will join the Avenger, Compass and Wagoneer S in Jeep’s expanding all-electric range.