by Matt Konkle
Torque Editor-in-Chief
The numbers by themselves would seem benign at first glance. Just some digits that really have no correlation to each other.
But then you realize that Jeep doesn’t do random. And these numbers, after taking a deeper look, do seem to have a more than a passing relationship.
We’re talking about several recent Twitter posts from Jeep’s account that started with a sign depicting 40.4, then a rear Wrangler plate reading 47.4, before today’s 12.9, 33.6, 100:1 and 47.4.
It is a lot of numbers. A lot of numbers that could point in several directions — perhaps new 4xe advancements in mileage and battery capacity, or some kind of Gladiator refinements, maybe even a new concept release.
Well, according to a now-deleted article originally posted on Overland Expo, they actually all point to an entirely different thing.
A new Wrangler Xtreme Recon package for Unlimited and 392 models.
The package seems to be a direct answer to Ford Bronco’s Sasquatch edition, and a way for Jeep to refute Ford’s best-in-class off-road claims about the vehicle. With that Sasquatch package buyers receive, among other things, 35-inch tires, beadlock-capable wheels, along with front and rear locking differentials. It is a solid upgrade from Ford allowing a 37.2-degree departure angle, 29-degree breakover angle and 43.2-degree approach angle on two-door editions. The four-door’s approach angle number is nearly identical, while featuring a 26.3-degree breakover and 37.0-degree departure angles.
Meanwhile, that since-removed article said Jeep’s Xtreme Recon package plans to best Bronco by adding LT315/70R17C (35-inch) BF Goodrich KO2 All-Terrain Tires, 17-inch x 8-inch Beadlock Capable Wheels, 4.56:1 Axle Ratio, and a 1.5-inch Factory Suspension Lift with uniquely tuned shocks.
Additionally, it looks to boast an industry-first 100:1 crawl ratio when buyers select the optional 4.88 gearing, best-in-class approach angle (47.7 degrees), departure angle (40.4 degrees), ground clearance (12.9 inches), and water fording depth (33.6 inches). Those numbers look familiar? The only difference is that article may have gotten the approach angle slightly wrong against what Jeep posted on its Twitter account.
With the Bronco, as well as its Sasquatch edition, starting to appear on dealer lots, the leaked details of this Wrangler package seems to be some perfect timing. It is also yet another response from Jeep’s designers against Ford’s venture back into the off-road market.
While Jeep has not officially confirmed the existence of the Xtreme Recon package on its Unlimited and 392 editions, the brand is set to have a presence at the upcoming Chicago Auto Show in mid-July and could debut the vehicle during the event.
Jeep does have a press conference listed at the show on Wednesday, July 14 from 9:30-10 a.m., according to a Chicago Auto Show media release.
