The annual Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah, sees droves of Jeeps tackling challenging off-road trails. Each year, Jeep unveils a collection of daring 4×4 concepts at this event to showcase the latest innovations. Among the highlights of the 2023 lineup are the striking Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept, the high-performance 650-horsepower Wrangler Magneto 3.0, and the retro-cool 1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe.
No doubt about it, all of them are pretty fantastic.
Grand Wagoneer Overland Concept
While the custom Wranglers and Gladiators always draw attention, it’s refreshing to see a different Jeep model receive some modification love. The Grand Wagoneer Overland Concept sports a potent twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine churning out 510 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent through an eight-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels, now wrapped with 35-inch BF Goodrich tires on bespoke 18-inch wheels.
The enhanced lift of 1.5 inches gives the Grand Wagoneer a captivating stance, providing the necessary clearance for the larger tires. This modification, combined with additional trimming, elevates the overall appeal of this luxurious SUV.
To elevate the experience further, Jeep added the RedTail Overland Skyloft to the Grand Wagoneer. This climate-controlled hard-shell tent offers ample sleeping space for two individuals. With a pass-through access created by removing the rear seats and opening up the sunroof, this setup is both practical and stylish!
1978 Jeep Cherokee 4xe Concept
If browsing through endless Craigslist ads is your thing, then you’ll find that Jeep’s roster of innovative concepts offers a refreshing change of pace.
does as well. This is how the car manufacturer’s engineers stumbled upon the 1978 Cherokee donor pickup for this nostalgia-inspired design. When they came across it, it was in poor condition without an engine, but that was inconsequential because it was always meant for a complete exchange anyway.
The attractive two-door now rests on a Wrangler 4xe chassis and powerplant. This implies it is driven by a hybridized 2.0-liter turbo engine producing 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission and 4:1 transfer case transmit power to all four 37-inch tires, providing the modernized Cherokee with impressive clearance.
A significant amount of consideration was dedicated to the interior as well, including brightly colored materials, a four-point cage in place of the rear seats, and a full-size spare tire.
Jeep Scrambler 392 Concept
This is the epitome, in my opinion. Originally a four-door Wrangler Rubicon, it was transformed into the form you see here with a lower roofline and sloped windshield. Adorned with carbon fiber body panels, the Scrambler 392 Concept sheds a substantial amount of weight, further enhancing performance presented by the vigorous 6.4-liter Hemi V8 generating 470 hp and 470 pound-feet of torque.
It pays homage to the original CJ-8 Scrambler, akin to the Jeep CJ-7 but with an elongated wheelbase. Similar to its predecessor, this new creation offers ample rear cargo space featuring a brightly painted luggage rack rather than a conventional bed. It rides on 40-inch tires and AccuAir adjustable suspension, enabling the lift to vary from 1.5 to 5.5 inches.
I understand that Jeep is unlikely to bring the Scrambler 392 Concept into the market, but I am always thrilled to witness ambitious endeavors like this being actualized.
Jeep Wrangler Magneto 3.0 Concept
Speaking of ambitious projects, the Wrangler Magneto 3.0 may be the most unconventional among all these. It represents a modified version of the electric Wrangler off-roader showcased at the previous two Easter Jeep Safaris, with a slight variation. This year, it offers two selectable power modes: 285 hp and 273 lb-ftor 650 horsepower and 900 pound-feet.
Possible due to a fresh and more effective motor design, leading to a 20% increase in usable energy and range due to enhanced programming. Still using a six-speed manual transmission, but half of the gears are mainly for show. Not requiring the clutch makes it possible to shift to third gear from a halt without stalling, simplifying throttle control on rough trails.
Furthermore, the Wrangler Magneto 3.0 introduces a more aggressive hill descent mode. Activatable in low range, it offers a genuine one-pedal operation. If you’ve tackled technical trails before, you understand the significant advantage this feature provides.
Jeep Gladiator Rubicon Sideburn Concept
While this exhibition model is somewhat more restrained, it has been extensively modified for extreme functionality. Featuring a distinctly revamped bed replete with MOLLE panels and integrated storage spaces. Equipped with RotoPax compartments for storing various fluids, and a Mopar spare tire carrier that effortlessly accommodates a full-size 37-inch tire.
The bed-mounted JPP sports bar, while currently a concept, showcases a blend of carbon fiber and steel construction. It boasts a mid-shelf with securing points for containers, alongside four T-track rails for convenient mounting of items such as bikes, kayaks, and more.
Instead of opting for a quirky engine enhancement, the Gladiator Sideburn Concept relies on the proven and reliable 3.6-liter V6.
Check Out the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe Departure Concept
Concluding the showcase is a tube-door Wrangler featuring a strikingly contrasting color palette. The Wrangle Rubicon 4xe Departure’s deep blue exterior complements the luxurious brown leather interior, while the bronze wheels tie everything together. However, pay special attention to the front area.
Observe the grille – it converts into a bench. A perfect spot to relax by the trailside or by a campfire. It’s akin to having a front-end tailgate. While a wraparound cushion would be a nice addition, sometimes we have to make do with what we have.
The tubular rock sliders and the flip-over tire carrier maintain the coherence of the design, offering options to store your spare tire inside the trunk or just above the rear bumper.
The Easter Jeep Safari commences on April 1. Stay tuned to social media for a glimpse of these vehicles navigating Moab over the weekend, and for further coverage in case of any spectacular successes or failures.
Do you have any tips or questions for the author? Reach out directly to caleb@thedrive.com
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