Forget everything you thought you knew about electric vehicles and gentle off-roading. Jeep is charging into the future with the 2026 Recon, its first ground-up electric SUV built not for the grocery run, but for the grueling trail. This isn’t a softened compromise; it’s a statement of intent, packing staggering performance figures that would be impressive in a sports car, let alone a vehicle designed to climb rocks.
The numbers tell a compelling story. With a blistering 650 horsepower and 840 Newton-meters of torque available the instant you touch the accelerator, the Recon launches from 0 to 96 kmph in a mere 3.6 seconds. This kind of acceleration feels transformative in a high-riding vehicle on massive 33-inch all-terrain tires, offering a driving experience that is as shocking as it is thrilling.
Engineered for the Wild, Powered by Electricity
While an estimated range of up to 402 kilometers should alleviate range anxiety, Jeep’s clear priority was crafting an unstoppable off-road machine. The Recon is built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform, featuring separate 250 kW electric drive modules at the front and rear axles. This setup provides immense power and precise control.
The commitment to capability is etched into its very blueprint. The Recon boasts approach, breakover, and departure angles of 33.8, 23.3, and 33.1 degrees, respectively, complemented by a robust 9.1 inches of ground clearance. These are specifications that seasoned off-road enthusiasts will recognize as best-in-class.
Further proving its mettle, the Recon features an electronic locking rear differential to maximize traction when wheels start to slip. For the serious crawler, the top-tier Moab trim even gets a specialized shorter gear ratio to multiply torque for painstakingly slow and technical climbs over obstacles. Meanwhile, clever engineering allows the front axle to disconnect at the wheels, reducing mechanical drag and improving efficiency when you’re back on paved roads.
A Design That Bridges Heritage and High-Tech
At first glance, you’ll have no trouble identifying this as a Jeep. The iconic seven-slot grille remains, now outlined with modern illumination and flanked by sharp U-shaped daytime running lights. The Recon embraces the brand’s adventurous spirit with practical, rugged features like removable doors, a rear-mounted spare tire, and a dual-pane roof.
Step inside, and the theme continues. The cabin is a mix of durable, scratch-resistant surfaces and thoughtful technology. A prominent grab handle on the dashboard is a nod to its off-road purpose, while the interior offers clever storage solutions, including a deep center console and a compact front trunk (“frunk”) large enough for a carry-on suitcase. Sustainability is part of the package, with materials like Capri synthetic upholstery and recycled elements used throughout.
Dominating the cockpit is Jeep’s largest-ever screen setup: a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a massive 14.5-inch central touchscreen running the Uconnect 5 system. This tech suite is loaded with purpose-built features, including Dynamic Range Mapping, integrated off-road trail data, and expanded EV charging and power management pages. An Alpine audio system comes standard, with speakers strategically placed under the seats to ensure the music stays with you even when the doors are removed.
For the Moab edition, Jeep’s designers drew inspiration directly from the desert, creating a unique Joshua Tree tan interior theme after visiting the national park.
The 2026 Jeep Recon is scheduled to begin production in early 2025 at Jeep’s plant in Toluca, Mexico. Initial sales will focus on the United States and Canadian markets, with a global rollout to follow, marking a new, electrified chapter for one of the world’s most legendary off-road brands.
