Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 'shorty' returns

The short-wheelbase Jeep Wrangler Rubicon hard-core 4x4 will return to Australia for the first time since 2015 in the form of a new limited-edition from the off-road specialist.

Just 40 examples of the two-door ‘shorty’ Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Recon will be available for delivery from September, along with 60 examples of the long-wheelbase Wrangler Ultimate four-door in the same spec.

The shorty is available to order now priced from $66,950 plus on-road costs – $7500 more than the Overland short-wheelbase. The five-door will start at $71,450 plus ORCs – $6000 more than the Wrangler Ultimate Rubicon petrol V6 and $500 more than the diesel.

That makes the Recon limited-edition the most expensive models in their respective JL Wrangler line-ups – at least until they sell-out.

“A two-door Jeep Wrangler Rubicon continues to be a much-desired proposition amongst the Australian off-roading community, and we’re so excited to make this dream a reality with the Recon special edition,” said Guillaume Drelon, Jeep Australia’s director of brand and product strategy.

“It offers the everyday practicality many seek, whilst remaining adventure ready.”

Both Rubicon Recons are powered by a 209kW/347Nm 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine mated to an eight-speed auto and the Rock-Trac dual-range 4x4 system complete with Dana 44 front and rear axles.

The first limited-edition launched since the new JL Wrangler arrived in May 2019, the Recon can be picked out by its matte-black bonnet, fender vent decals, black grille and black 17-inch wheels.

A steel front bumper and tailgate reinforcement system are lifted from the Jeep Performance parts catalogue.

Inside, there are red seatbelts, a premium-wrapped instrument panel completed with red stitching, black leather seats and heating for both the front seats and steering wheel.

The Ultimate also comes with a trail-rail management system to keep possessions secure in the rough and tumble off-road.

The last time the Rubicon shorty was sold here in the old JK spec it was priced at $43,000 as a soft-top.

This time round it’s also got a canvas roof, but you can option the Freedom hard-top (and body-colour fender flares) for $3000. It’s the same cost for that option with the Ultimate. Premium paint is a $745 option.

Beyond Australian shores there’s plenty going on with Wrangler, as a V8 version is being developed alongside a plug-in hybrid. Neither is confirmed for Australia.