Jeep Recon off-road-capable electric SUV to be launched in 2026

With the Recon, Jeep claims to be launching the first electric SUV that not only looks like an off-roader, but is also said to be truly capable off the beaten track. Production of the model is scheduled to start in early 2026. The first deliveries to US and Canadian customers are to follow, while the market launch in other markets is planned for the fourth quarter.

The SUV will be built at the Toluca plant in Mexico and is also likely to be offered in this country. The manufacturer has already announced a price for the US market: it will start at $65,000, or approximately €56,000.

The SUV is based on the STLA Large platform

When it comes to the technical basis, the Stellantis subsidiary only refers to a ‘specially developed electric architecture’. The electric Jeep Wagoneer S, which is based on the group’s STLA Large platform, also rolls off the production line in Toluca. It would therefore stand to reason that this platform, in an adapted form, also forms the basis for the Recon.

It is designed for 400-volt technology and houses a 100 kWh NMC battery. This should enable a range of up to 450 kilometres. However, this is still an estimate and not an official WLTP value.

The off-road vehicle manufacturer has not yet commented on the charging capacity or charging time. As the two models are likely to share the same platform, the key data is expected to be similar to that of the Grand Wagoneer S. The SUV, which has been available since 2024, charges at DC charging stations with a maximum of 203 kW. The charging cycle from 20 to 80 per cent is said to take 23 minutes.

An electric all-wheel drive system, with a 250 kW motor on each axle, comes as standard. The transmission and power electronics are integrated directly into the drive units, which, according to the manufacturer, are designed to increase efficiency. Jeep estimates the system output at 478 kW and the torque at an impressive 840 Nm. If required, it can go from zero to 100 kph in just 3.6 seconds. The US brand has not yet provided any information on the top speed. However, this is of secondary importance in the SUV’s home market.

To increase off-road capability, the Recon comes standard with an electronic limited-slip differential. This is designed to distribute torque optimally to the two rear wheels as needed. The differential can be completely locked manually via a switch.

The final drive ratio on the rear axle is 15:1, which is intended to increase the available torque. This should enable the electric SUV to offer sufficient traction even under the most adverse conditions. The Jeep Recon also features ‘Selec-Speed Control’, which maintains a constant, preset speed on steep inclines and declines, thus relieving the driver. This allows them to concentrate fully on steering.

The front motor has an 11:1 gear ratio and features an open differential. Automatic hub clutches on the front axle increase efficiency and range on the road, while reinforced half-shafts and robust constant velocity joints are designed to reliably transmit full torque.

Automatic clutches on the wheel hubs are designed to reduce fuel consumption and thus optimise range. When rear-wheel drive is more efficient, the front axle is disengaged. Large-diameter half-shafts and robust constant velocity joints are designed to make the Recon ideal for trail use, thanks to optimal torque transfer.

The SUV comes standard with 33-inch tyres, which contribute to its generous ground clearance of 23 centimetres. Jeep specifies the front approach angle as 34 degrees and the rear as 34.5 degrees. According to Jeep, the ramp angle is 23.5 degrees.

Recon is able to handle a decent amount of luggage

Visually, the Recon Jeep is thorough and consistent. The designers did not venture into experimentation and remained close to the familiar lines of the combustion engine models. The modular design with removable doors and rear side windows is also typical of the brand. The model comes standard with a double-glazed sunroof, while the enormous ‘Sky One-Touch’ roof is available as an option.

Thanks to its special electric architecture and boxy appearance, the Recon also offers plenty of storage space – folding down the second row of seats increases the luggage volume to up to 1,866 litres. In addition, there is a generously sized frunk with a capacity of 84 litres. The cockpit is state-of-the-art in terms of digital technology, but at the same time, it is designed to be robust enough for off-road use. The display for driving information measures 12.3 inches, while the infotainment touchscreen is 14.5 inches.

stellantis.com, stellantisnorthamerica.com (US pricing)

This article was first published by Elias Holdenried for electrive’s German edition.