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Jeep Recon set for public reveal, sales due next spring
Jeep's long-anticipated Recon electric SUV is finally scheduled for a full reveal and a showroom rollout next spring, the brand's CEO Bob Broderdorf confirmed to MotorTrend. Initially slated for 2024 after its high-profile 2023 unveiling, the Wrangler-styled Recon has been delayed by product and market headwinds—but it remains an important piece of Jeep's electric vehicle strategy.
Where the Recon fits in Jeep's EV lineup
Built on Stellantis' STLA Large architecture—the same underpinnings used by the premium Wagoneer S—the Recon is positioned as a more rugged, Wrangler-inspired all-electric model. Jeep markets it as an off-road-capable EV, but industry insiders and Jeep leadership have tempered expectations about its commercial performance. Broderdorf called it "a great car," while acknowledging sales may be limited: "We should sell it, we should learn," he told MotorTrend.
That's a candid assessment. The Wagoneer S, which shares the STLA Large platform, struggled in the market: only about 10,426 units sold in the first nine months of 2025 in the U.S. That underperformance has highlighted pricing sensitivity in the premium electric-SUV segment, and it likely explains Jeep's cautious outlook for the Recon.
Pricing, range and production hints
Early indications point to a starting price in the neighborhood of $60,000 before taxes. Trim levels such as a Rubicon variant—designed for serious off-roaders—could push sticker prices toward $80,000. The Recon will be assembled in Mexico on the same line as the Wagoneer S, and in battery-electric form its range is expected to be roughly 350 miles (about 563 kilometers). For many buyers that figure is competitive; for die-hard overlanders who plan multi-day trail trips, the range could be limiting unless a range-extender option appears.
Range-extender possibilities and platform trickle-down
Stellantis has been experimenting with range-extended powertrains. The Ram 1500 REV (previously previewed as the Ramcharger) introduced a range-extender concept around a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, and the 2026 Jeep Grand Wagoneer adopted a similar approach. Jeep’s next-gen Wrangler—internally called J70 and expected around 2028—has been linked to the Ram 1500 REV's STLA Frame platform and could offer range-extended variants.
A range-extender for the Recon would make sense strategically, but packaging one into a unibody SUV is more difficult than in a truck platform. Still, observers say it wouldn’t be surprising if Jeep eventually offers a Recon with an onboard generator to ease range anxiety for off-road excursions.
Technology and autonomy: a pause on STLA AutoDrive
Stellantis had previewed STLA AutoDrive, a semi-autonomous Level 3 system intended for vehicles like the Wagoneer S. However, the company shelved plans for AutoDrive in mid-2025, citing high costs, technical complexity, and tepid demand. That delay reduces one potential headline feature for flagship EVs in the Stellantis family, and it may influence customer perceptions of value for feature-rich models like the Wagoneer S and the Recon.
What enthusiasts should watch for
- Official reveal timing and full pricing breakdown
- Confirmed EPA range and charging speeds
- Whether a range-extended powertrain will be offered
- Rubicon and other off-road-specific packages
Jeep has signaled that more Wrangler-related announcements are coming after the Recon reveal. The company appears to be taking a measured approach: use the Recon to build experience in electrified off-road vehicles, learn from the market, and then refine offerings for mainstream and hardcore Jeep buyers.
Whether the Recon becomes a sales success or a halo-learning product will depend on price positioning, real-world range, and how well Jeep balances capability with the premium expectations of electric SUV buyers. For now, enthusiasts can expect the Recon to make its public debut soon—and then wait to see if Jeep follows up with an accessible price or a stretch into range-extended territory to match true off-road lifestyles.
Source: autoevolution
Comments
driveline
Recon sounds cool but $60k base? and 350 miles... for real? Rubicon at 80k will sell to who? Jeep needs a real range fix, not just hype
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