Jeep is stepping into a pivotal moment in its history with the introduction of the 2026 Jeep Recon, its first fully electric SUV to earn the Trail Rated designation. The debut is the strong, silent type. It arrives at a time when global EV sales continue to climb at roughly 25 percent annually, even as several major manufacturers—including Jeep’s parent company, Stellantis—have scaled back or delayed portions of their EV portfolios. While some all-electric projects within the Jeep and Ram brands have been cancelled or pushed into the future, the Recon has remained on track. Designed from the outset as a dedicated electric model rather than a conversion of an existing platform, it reflects Jeep’s effort to blend its established off-road capability with the advantages of electrified propulsion. With production expected to begin early next year and a phased launch planned for the United States and Canada, the Recon marks a notable evolution in Jeep’s approach to building adventure-oriented vehicles for the electric era.
At the center of the Recon’s identity is its purpose-built electric architecture. Jeep engineered the SUV to maintain the characteristics that define the brand: traction, ground clearance, articulation, water fording, and maneuverability. With electric motors positioned at the front and rear, the Recon provides standard all-electric four-wheel drive, delivering immediate torque and precise throttle response across a range of terrain. Power comes from twin Stellantis-designed electric drive modules, each rated at 250 kilowatts, combining motors, gearing, and power electronics into compact units that enhance efficiency and capability.
The result is an output of 650 horsepower and 620 pound-feet of torque, allowing the Recon to accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in as little as 3.6 seconds. The system’s instant torque delivery is tuned to support low-speed control and nuanced inputs on technical trails, where accurate modulation is essential. The Moab trim features a rear-drive module with a 15:1 final drive ratio that provides high torque multiplication, allowing drivers to navigate steep, loose, or uneven terrain with confidence. Off-road capability is strengthened by an electronic locking rear differential that delivers power to both wheels when activated. With a simple switch, the driver can shift from an open differential to a fully locked setup. Engineers also fitted the model with large-diameter half-shafts, robust constant-velocity joints, and a high-strength steel underbody shield system to protect the 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack during off-road use.
Jeep’s Selec-Terrain traction management system returns in an expanded form, offering multiple drive modes designed to adapt the powertrain and control systems to varying conditions. The Moab trim adds a dedicated Rock mode with unique software calibrations that moderate throttle response, support two-pedal driving techniques, and incorporate hill-hold functionality to maintain control in technical sections. Selec-Speed Control further assists drivers by maintaining a consistent speed during low-speed ascents and descents, allowing full concentration on steering. With that array of off-road driving aids available, the vehicle reduces much of the reliance on driver skill.
The outward design of the Recon reflects a blend of Jeep heritage and modern EV styling. Its upright stance, illuminated seven-slot grille rings, U-shaped daytime running lights, and expressive LED taillamps draw clear connections to familiar Jeep design cues, while expanded glass areas improve visibility on the trail. Open-air versatility remains a defining trait, and the Recon becomes the only fully electric SUV with removable doors, swing-gate glass, and rear quarter glass. But is it just me, or does the Recon look half-built with the doors off? Access requires no tools, preserving the brand’s tradition of quick transitions between enclosed and open-air driving. Gloss Black accents on the pillars, grille, and trim provide contrast, while the Moab trim introduces rock rails, black fascias, and topographical etching on exclusive badging.
Inside, storage is a central theme: a two-tiered pass-through console includes a wireless charging area and space for larger items, while modular door panels use removable straps and configurable cargo solutions. With the second row folded, the Recon provides 65.9 cubic feet of rear cargo capacity, complemented by a 3-cubic-foot front trunk that accommodates a carry-on suitcase. Jeep has paid particular attention to the open-air audio experience, equipping every Recon with a standard Alpine sound system. Because the doors are removable, engineers relocated the speakers from their traditional door mounts to positions beneath the seats to preserve audio clarity with the cabin fully open.
Technology plays a prominent role in the interior experience at Recon. Drivers are met with more than 26 inches of combined high-definition display space, including a 12.3-inch fully digital cluster and a 14.5-inch center touchscreen, the largest singular digital display ever offered in a Jeep vehicle. These systems are powered by Uconnect 5 and include customizable interfaces, crisp graphics, and integrated digital HVAC controls. Physical knobs for volume and tuning remain, recognizing the need for tactile controls in off-road environments.
The Recon introduces several digital features tailored to adventure travel. A new Jeep-exclusive Trails Offroad app provides detailed trail information across North America and includes pitch-and-roll mapping. Dynamic Range Mapping, powered by TomTom, helps drivers plan charging stops during longer trips by projecting available range based on terrain, driving style, and elevation. BEV-specific pages supply real-time data on charging status and energy usage, while the latest Jeep mobile app supports maintenance scheduling, roadside assistance, and safety notifications. Compatibility with Amazon Alexa adds additional connectivity for daily use.
With a starting MSRP of $65,000 before destination charges, the 2026 Recon enters the market as a premium electric SUV aimed at drivers who want serious off-road capability without departing from the Jeep brand’s design language. Production is set to begin at the Toluca Assembly Plant, and the model will expand beyond North America after its initial launch.
Read More: Jeep Launches Yearlong Series of Wrangler Special Editions to Mark 85 Years of Off-Road Heritage
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