This Jeep SUV Looks Familiar, But What’s Underneath Turns It Into a Serious Off-Road Machine

The legendary SUV is back for the 2027 model year, and its new off-road version brings far more than red tow hooks and special badges. This time, there is serious hardware underneath the body—exactly what was missing from the previous generation.

The previous generation was criticized for having little to offer when the pavement ended. Four-wheel drive was available, but there was no low-range gearing and no locking differentials. The automaker promised to address those shortcomings, and the new off-road version delivers.

It gets a two-speed transfer case with a 2.92:1 low range and an electronically controlled rear differential with a mechanical locker. In its lowest gear, the overall crawl ratio reaches 37.5:1, a respectable figure for a unibody SUV.

The suspension has also been reworked. Special springs and dampers are paired with a 1-inch lift compared with standard versions, increasing ground clearance to 9 inches.

The automaker says the suspension's RTI articulation index improves by 45 points over the standard SUV. Off-road geometry is strong as well, with a 28.8-degree approach angle, a 31.8-degree departure angle and a 21.9-degree breakover angle.

Water crossings up to 24 inches deep are also part of the package.

Steel skid plates protect the underside, including the front differential, fuel tank and wiring. The hybrid battery gets its own dedicated protection as well.

The SUV rides on 17-inch black wheels wrapped in 245/65 R17 all-terrain tires, with a full-size spare mounted for emergencies.

The powertrain remains unchanged. A 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder works with a 400-volt hybrid system to produce 210 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque.

An eCVT sends power through an all-wheel-drive system with automatic rear-axle engagement. A two-wheel-drive mode can also be selected to improve fuel economy.

Fuel consumption is rated at less than 30 mpg combined, while towing capacity is around 3,300 pounds.

Pricing in the U.S. starts at $44,625. Production will take place at an assembly plant in Toluca, Mexico, and orders are already being accepted.