2026 Jeep Wrangler Willys 392
The V8 Returns to its Roots
For years, the combination of a short-wheelbase Jeep and a massive V8 engine was reserved for the top-tier Rubicon 392. For 2026, that changes. The new Jeep Wrangler Willys 392 brings the legendary 6.4-liter HEMI® V8 to the heritage-inspired Willys trim, creating a "sleeper" off-roader that prioritizes mechanical grip and raw power over luxury tech.
For Kingfisher drivers who have been asking for a V8 without the full price tag of a luxury SUV, the Willys 392 represents the sweet spot of performance engineering. Below is the full technical breakdown of this limited-edition powerhouse.
The Powerplant: 6.4L HEMI V8
The headline statistic for the Willys 392 is the engine. This is a naturally aspirated 6.4-liter (392 cubic inch) V8. Unlike turbocharged engines that require time to build pressure ("spool up"), this engine delivers instant throttle response.
| Feature | Specification | Real-World Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 6.4L HEMI® V8 | Proven reliability and immediate power delivery. |
| Horsepower | 470 hp @ 6,000 rpm | Effortless highway passing and high-speed desert running. |
| Torque | 470 lb-ft @ 4,300 rpm | Massive low-end grunt for crawling up steep ledges without stalling. |
| Transmission | 8HP75 8-Speed Automatic | Heavy-duty transmission built to handle high torque loads. |
| Exhaust | Active Dual-Mode Performance | Switch between "Quiet" for the neighborhood and "Performance" for the trail. |
| 0-60 MPH | Est. 4.5 Seconds | Sports car acceleration in a lifted 4x4. |
Chassis and Suspension Engineering
Xtreme 35 Package Standard
The Willys 392 comes standard with the Xtreme 35 Package. This includes 35-inch BFGoodrich KO2 all-terrain tires mounted on 17-inch beadlock-capable wheels. These larger tires provide a larger contact patch for traction in sand and mud, which is critical for transferring V8 power to the ground.
4.56 Axle Ratio
Jeep engineers selected a 4.56:1 axle ratio for this model.
Plain English: The "ratio" refers to how many times the driveshaft turns to rotate the wheels once. A higher number (like 4.56) gives the engine more mechanical leverage. This makes the vehicle feel lighter off the line and allows it to crawl slower and with more control over rocks, despite the massive 35-inch tires.
Heavy-Duty Axles
The rear axle is a Dana 44 HD Full-Float.
Plain English: In a standard axle, the shaft supports the weight of the vehicle and transmits power. In a "Full-Float" design, the weight of the vehicle rests on the axle housing (the tube), not the shaft itself. This makes the axle vastly stronger and less likely to snap or bend under the stress of heavy loads, towing, or bouncing off-road.
Off-Road Dimensions
Technical off-roading requires clearance. The Willys 392 leverages its factory lift and large tires to offer best-in-class stats for a factory V8 SUV.
- Ground Clearance: 11.1 inches
- Water Fording: 32.5 inches (aided by the Hydro-Guide™ hood intake system)
- Transfer Case: Selec-Trac Full-Time 4WD
Why Buy the Willys 392?
With a starting MSRP of $69,995, the Willys 392 offers the most affordable entry point into a factory V8 Wrangler. It strips away some of the luxury interior materials of the Rubicon 392 in favor of a rugged, heritage-focused aesthetic, perfect for the enthusiast who plans to get their Jeep dirty
* The advertised price does not include sales tax, vehicle registration fees, other fees required by law, finance charges and any documentation charges. A negotiable administration fee, up to $115, may be added to the price of the vehicle.
* Images, prices, and options shown, including vehicle color, trim, options, pricing and other specifications are subject to availability, incentive offerings, current pricing and credit worthiness.
* Price does not include $89 doc fee.