Jeep Recon EV Falls Significantly Short of Advertised Range in Highway Test
The electric SUV, designed for off-roading, achieved 160 miles on a single charge, far less than its EPA-estimated 222 miles.
The electric SUV, designed for off-roading, achieved 160 miles on a single charge, far less than its EPA-estimated 222 miles.
· Updated
The Jeep Recon EV, launched this summer with a starting price of $66,995, has demonstrated a real-world highway range significantly lower than its advertised capabilities. During a recent highway range test conducted by Car and Driver, the electric SUV managed only 160 miles on a full charge.
This figure falls considerably short of the EPA's estimated range of up to 222 miles for the 2026 Jeep Recon Moab, which utilizes a 94 kWh battery pack. The real-world test revealed an efficiency of just 1.7 miles per kWh, placing the Recon among the least efficient EVs tested by the publication.
In comparison, the Wagoneer S, built on the same STLA Large Platform and using an identical 94 kWh battery, achieved 280 miles in the same test, demonstrating nearly double the efficiency at approximately 3 miles per kWh. The Wagoneer S is designed for on-road performance with a more aerodynamic profile and lower ground clearance.
Jeep has positioned the Recon EV as a Trail Rated SUV, emphasizing its off-road capabilities. It features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain producing 650 horsepower, removable doors, and a design akin to the Wrangler for rugged terrain. This focus on off-roading, rather than highway efficiency, likely contributes to its lower range performance.
FAQ
What was the real-world highway range of the Jeep Recon EV?
The Jeep Recon EV achieved 160 miles on a single charge during a real-world highway range test.
How does the Jeep Recon EV's range compare to its EPA estimate?
The real-world range of 160 miles is over 60 miles less than the EPA's estimated range of up to 222 miles.