The chunky off-roader will be revealed in production form soon
The Jeep Recon has been one of the most anticipated cars on our radar for some time now. Between its appealingly boxy looks and the fact that it’ll be priced below the only other electric Jeep (the Wagoneer S), the Recon is one to watch out for. It will also become one of the few truly rugged electric SUVs on the market, as most electric SUVs are more luxury-oriented.
We’ve had to be patient, though. The Recon was originally revealed as a concept in 2022, and after being delayed, it’s still not on sale. Fortunately, we now know when the electric off-roader will arrive.
Related: Jeep’s New Boss Cuts Prices, Revamps Lineup for 2025 Comeback
Recon to Arrive Next Spring
Jeep
Spring 2026 is when the Jeep Recon will finally arrive, according to Bob Broderdorf, Jeep CEO. While Jeep only has pre-production images of the Recon published on its official site, the final production vehicle is set to be revealed soon. Broderdorf is determined to launch the EV, even if a big drop in EV sales is expected this quarter, following the federal tax credit being cut.
“We’ve got a great car,” said the CEO when speaking with MotorTrend. “We’ve already built it. We should sell it, we should learn. I don’t know how many it will be. I’m not really worried about it.”
Manufacturing of the Recon will take place at the Toluca facility in Mexico, where the Wagoneer S is also built. The facility will remain flexible, depending on how much demand there is for the new Recon.
“We can shift and move. It is OK if [the Recon] is low-volume,” said Broderdorf. “If I have to sell more Cherokees, so be it.”
Wrangler-Sized EV Without The Big Gas Bills
Stellantis
Said to be similar in size to the Wrangler, the Jeep Recon should be large enough for five occupants. Technical specifications are still unconfirmed, but we do know it’ll be built on the STLA Large platform. A range of up to 350 miles is anticipated, and all-terrain tires, skid plates, and the other usual Jeep rugged gear should be available for off-road fans. As preproduction images show, the Recon will have removable doors, just like the Wrangler.
Direct rivals will include the upcoming electric “baby” Land Rover Defender, and it’s likely to be compared to everything from the Ford Bronco to the Rivian R1S and the upcoming electric SUV from Scout.
Why The Recon Matters
Stellantis
Back in August, Jeep’s CEO emphasized the importance of powertrain diversity within its lineup. Gas-powered Jeeps still have their place, but hybrids and EVs will still form part of the company’s short- and long-term strategy. New powertrain types like the Range-Extended Grand Wagoneer EV are coming, too, and that SUV promises a 500-mile range.
But the Recon will also demonstrate the appeal of a truly rugged Jeep EV for the first time; as mentioned, the Wagoneer S has a more upmarket appeal. Coming off years of brawny V6- and V8-powered Wranglers, the Recon will be a big shift in mindset for this particular group of Jeep fans who actually use their vehicles for off-roading.
Related: Jeep CEO doesn’t rule out a hybrid powertrain for the Recon EV
