The Jeep Wrangler Maximum Performance Concept means business. Every year, Jeep debuts concepts and prototypes just before the Easter Jeep Safari that takes place in Moab, Utah. A few lucky journalists get to try these creations out during the Safari. The Jeep Wrangler Maximum Performance Concept will be one of those concepts that Roman and I will be lucky enough to sample.
Jeep uses this event to evaluate the viability of components, trims and whole vehicles. In some cases, these vehicle concepts lead the way to production reality. In other cases, the concept is a fantasy of one of the designers and it becomes a marketing tool great for water-cooler conversation.
The Jeep Wrangler Maximum Performance Concept has the Jeep Performance Parts “exclusive” push-button electric-locking Dana 60 axles at the front and rear. It has 4.88 gearing and the 4:1 Rock-Trac transfer case. A prototype lift kit from Jeep Performance Parts lifts it an additional 4-inches . Wrangler Maximum Performance boasts a 70:1 crawl ratio.
According to Jeep: “On the exterior, a prototype Jeep Performance Parts “Stinger” front bumper can handle whatever the terrain dishes out, especially when paired with a front bumper skid plate, Jeep Performance Parts Rubicon rock rails and a prototype flattop fender kit. A Mopar black grille dresses up the front, which also is modified with a prototype Jeep Performance Parts winch, and prototype LED lights mounted to the top of the vehicle to shine bright during nighttime off-road maneuvers. A prototype graphics package signifying the Moab landscape adorns the hood.
The Mopar Blue exterior is linked in appearance to the prototype eight-lug beadlock wheels by the Mopar Blue color on the beadlock ring. Wrangler Maximum Performance rides on 37-inch BFGoodrich Mud Terrain tires, with the sturdy hardtop covering full steel doors. The rear of the vehicle receives a prototype tire carrier and a 37-inch spare tire cover featuring the Jeep Performance Parts logo. Wrangler Maximum Performance also sports the five Moab “Badge of Honor” badges.
Mopar Blue is also featured inside, highlighting the HVAC bezels and steering wheel accents. Katzkin leather seats with embroidered Jeep logos feature blue accent stitching, as does the leather armrest. The interior is further enhanced with satin trim on the instrument panel, shift knob and HVAC controls, while the steering wheel spokes and dash grab handles are underscored in black.”
The Jeep Wrangler Maximum Performance Concept will be part of Easter Jeep Safari during the week of April 13th through the 20th.
Speaking of prototype Jeeps, check out this video from last year!
