By Jeep is taking its legendary off-road legacy into the electric future with the 2026 Jeep Recon, a mid-size electric SUV designed to bring hardcore off-roading to the EV market. With a price starting around $65,000, the Recon is positioned as a more accessible alternative to premium off-road EVs like the Rivian R1S, Hummer EV, and Mercedes EQG. Jeep enthusiasts finally have an electric SUV that combines rugged capability, Wrangler-inspired design, and modern EV technology.
Powertrain and Performance
The Recon rides on Stellantis’ STLA Large platform, shared with the Wagoneer S and Dodge Charger Daytona EV. It features a 100 kWh battery pack delivering an estimated up to 250 miles of range in its most efficient setup. Dual-motor all-wheel drive is standard, providing 650 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph sprint in just 3.6 seconds.
Unlike many electric SUVs, the Recon is designed for extreme off-roading. Jeep equips it with a mechanical locking rear differential, ensuring full torque delivery to a rear wheel even if the other wheel is off the ground. This is a capability often missing from competitors, which rely solely on software traction control.
Off-Road Features
The Recon shines in off-road performance with features tailored for adventure:
- Moab Trim: Includes 33-inch all-terrain tires, 9.1 inches of ground clearance, and a 15:1 final drive ratio on the rear electric motor.
- Selec-Speed Control: Acts as a cruise control for trails, combining hill descent control and regenerative braking to maintain a set speed on steep inclines.
- Removable Doors & Glass: Like the Wrangler, the Recon offers fully removable doors, rear-quarter glass, and swing gate glass for an authentic open-air experience.
These additions ensure the Recon isn’t just a street-ready SUV—it’s a serious tool for rock crawling, climbing, and challenging off-road terrain.
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Design and Interior
The 2026 Jeep Recon embraces a retro-modern design, featuring:
- U-shaped LED daytime running lights
- Wagoneer-S-inspired illuminated seven-slot grille
- Rugged and functional off-road styling
Inside, the cabin combines technology with Jeep’s classic ruggedness:
- 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
- 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Latest generation of Stellantis software for entertainment and vehicle management
Software reliability will be key for off-road adventures, as early experiences with other STLA-based EVs have shown software glitches. Jeep will need to ensure smooth and responsive performance to match the Recon’s physical capabilities.
Range and Practicality
While the most efficient Recon models can reach up to 250 miles. Off-road-focused versions with large tires and aggressive gearing may see sub-200-mile range on highways. Nonetheless, the Recon’s balance of performance, features, and price makes it a compelling choice for off-road EV enthusiasts.
The 2026 Jeep Recon promises to fill a major gap in the EV market. A reasonably priced electric SUV built for serious off-roading. With Wrangler-like styling, robust mechanical features, and cutting-edge EV technology. It has the potential to redefine what adventure in an electric vehicle looks like. Jeep fans and off-roaders now have a zero-emissions option that could truly deliver the thrill and capability they expect.
