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Concept cars are nothing new, but the idea of out-of-this-world SUVs that never went into production is fascinating. One example is the legendary 2005 Jeep Hurricane concept, which was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. This concept car stole the show, not just because of its Jeep Wrangler adjacent look but also due to its mighty engine. Often called the power wheels Hurricane Jeep, the automaker designed it to be its most powerful vehicle. Here’s a look at what could have been. 

The 2005 Jeep Hurricane concept has dual engines

2005 Jeep Hurricane concept
2005 Jeep Hurricane concept | Bill Pugliano/ via Getty Images

As far as concept cars go, the 2005 Jeep Hurricane is one of the most outrageous. The Jeep SUV holds this title due to its out-of-this-world performance. What makes it so special is that it has two 5.7-liter Hemi V8 engines under the hood that lead to a combined maximum output of 670 horsepower, according to MotorTrend. In addition, this concept car from Jeep has two transmissions. 

Also, both powerhouses are multi-displacement engines. This means that the Jeep Hurricane can use between four and 16 cylinders. This concept Jeep is also undoubtedly fast with all this power under the hood. According to sources, the Hurricane can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in sub-five seconds. 

This Jeep Concept has a unique look

2005 Jeep Hurricane concept at an auto show
2005 Jeep Hurricane | David Cooper/Toronto Star via Getty Images

Beyond performance, one of the most exciting aspects of this concept car from Jeep is how it looks. As many will notice, it looks similar to a Wrangler due to its rugged nature. However, it’s somehow both smaller and broader at the same time. What also makes this Jeep’s exterior special is that just about every component was made from scratch.

The body of this vehicle is gray carbon fiber, and it uses a giant set of Goodyear military tread revised tires. The SUV has a ground clearance of more than 14 inches. Another exciting part of this SUV is that all four wheels can steer, which allows the vehicle to move sideways without changing directions. This concept car isn’t the only vehicle to offer this, but it is impressive on the Jeep Hurricane.

Why this concept car never went into production

2005 Jeep Hurricane interior
2005 Jeep Hurricane | Mike FANOUS/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images

As everyone knows, the power wheels Hurricane Jeep never made it to production. As is the case with most concept cars, it seems Jeep never had any intention of selling the 2005 Hurricane concept. Perhaps the most significant barrier to production is the sheer cost of producing this SUV. Of course, its dual engines are a factor, but constructing the Jeep also took several unique components that required a massive budget.

In addition, despite the 2005 Jeep Hurricane being an incredible SUV with a lot of power, it’s not really practical. It’s one of those vehicles that probably wouldn’t sell because they’re simply too outrageous. However, seeing these behemoth machines driving around would still be awesome. Perhaps Jeep could even produce a slightly tamer hybrid version of the Hurricane someday.

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