The automotive landscape is shifting, and Jeep is positioning itself at the center of that evolution with two distinctly different off-road propositions: the gas-powered Jeep Wrangler and the all-electric Jeep Recon.

With the arrival of the 2026 Recon, buyers must now choose between traditional internal combustion capability and an electrified vision of trail performance.

Both SUVs seat five, carry Jeep’s signature boxy styling, and wear the “Trail Rated” badge, but their engineering philosophies diverge significantly in powertrain, range, driving dynamics, technology, and pricing.

The Wrangler continues its legacy with multiple combustion options, including a standard V-6, an available 2.0-liter turbo-four, and a 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 producing 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.

The Recon, by contrast, is a dedicated EV built on a Stellantis platform shared with models like the Grand Wagoneer S. Dual electric motors generate a commanding 650 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque, delivering an estimated 0–60 mph sprint of 3.6 seconds—quicker than even the V-8 Wrangler.

As expected, the Recon also offers superior energy efficiency compared to its gas-powered sibling.

Range, however, favors the Wrangler. Depending on configuration, it can travel up to 452 miles on a single tank, while even the V-8 manages roughly 300 miles.

The Recon’s 100.5-kWh battery delivers an estimated 230 miles in its launch Moab trim, with future variants projected to reach 250 miles.

For long-distance travel or remote trail access, the Wrangler’s refueling convenience remains a practical advantage.

Off-Road Capability, Space, and Everyday Practicality

Both SUVs are engineered for adventure, but their construction differs. The body-on-frame Wrangler remains the benchmark for extreme off-roading, offering superior ground clearance and steeper approach and breakover angles.

The Recon Moab trim is highly capable, featuring reinforced suspension components and terrain-specific drive modes, along with approach and breakover angles of 33.8 and 23.3 degrees.

On pavement, however, the Recon’s unibody structure and lower center of gravity, thanks to its battery pack, promise improved ride comfort and handling over the more truck-like Wrangler.

Inside, both models accommodate five passengers comfortably. The Recon offers slightly more legroom, while the Wrangler provides marginally greater cargo capacity, with 31.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 72.4 cubic feet when folded flat.

The Recon counters with 30.3 cubic feet of rear storage plus a small front trunk. Dimensionally, the Recon is about five inches longer, though width and height remain similar, and both maintain unmistakable Jeep design DNA.

Technologically, the newer Recon takes the lead. It features a 14.5-inch central touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch driver display, along with wireless charging and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Wrangler offers a smaller 12.3-inch touchscreen and retains more physical controls but lacks wireless charging. Safety features such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control are standard on the Recon and widely available on the Wrangler.

Pricing reflects their positioning: four-door Wranglers start around $40,000 and can exceed $80,000, while the Recon Moab begins just under $70,000. Ultimately, the Wrangler appeals to purists seeking proven range and rugged simplicity, while the Recon targets buyers desiring cutting-edge performance and greater on-road refinement in an electric package.