About the Jeep Wrangler 4xe

The Wrangler 4xe is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the iconic Jeep off-roader. On sale in 2021, the Wrangler is the first Jeep to receive a 4xe PHEV model. The Grand Cherokee would receive a 4xe trim the following year. The Wrangler 4xe maintains all the 4x4 prowess of a standard gasoline-power Wrangler but pairs a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. The combined output is 375 horsepower and an estimated all-electric range of 21 miles. The battery can be fully charged within two hours on a Level 2 charger.

What are the advantages of the Jeep Wrangler 4xe?

Because off-road trails require slow and steady pacing, a benefit of the 4xe is its ability to tackle off-the-grid adventures without using gas. On-road, the Wrangler 4xe would see increased fuel efficiency just the same, thanks to the vehicle’s electric-only mode and regenerative braking. And as with any vehicle wearing the Wrangler name, the Wrangler 4xe is four-wheel-drive (4WD) capable, features a removable roof and doors, and offers an extensive list of options as a standard Jeep thing.

What is the best Jeep Wrangler 4xe model year?

A relatively new offering, the Wrangler 4xe has yet to undergo a significant model refresh or redesign. With that in mind, the 4xe variant became a larger part of the Wrangler lineup in 2024. Initially offered on the two-door Wrangler Sport, Sport S, and Rubicon, as well as the four-door Wrangler Sahara, the 2024 Wrangler 4xe can now be optioned on Willys and High Altitude. The 2024 Wrangler also features a new 12.3-inch touchscreen with enhanced infotainment features as standard equipment.

What are the disadvantages of the Jeep Wrangler 4xe?

Adding electric motors to any vehicle adds tons of weight, which affects dynamics, handling, and efficiency–all of which are affected in the Wrangler 4xe. Once the battery is depleted, the Wrangler 4xe’s gasoline fuel efficiency is 20 combined mpg, which is toward the bottom of the Wrangler lineup. The 4xe starting MSRP also is much higher than a gasoline-powered Wrangler and the PHEV is available only on mid-level trims and above. North American charging infrastructure remains dismal, but Jeep plans to add Level 2 charging stations at popular trailheads like Moab and the Rubicon in the coming months.

Comparison: Is the Jeep Wrangler 4xe better than the Jeep Wrangler?

The Wrangler 4xe is better than the Wrangler because it’s just as capable an off-roader as any other Wrangler 4WD vehicle but with a fully-charged battery offers 49 combined mpge of fuel efficiency. Thus, the Wrangler 4xe offers a level of guilt-free 4x4 adventuring a gas guzzler can’t. The downside is the price, its less-than-stellar EV-only range, and poor overall fuel economy when without battery support. Federal and local incentives on EV purchases may still apply to help bring the Wrangler 4xe price down. But unless EV mode, regardless of range, is important to you, a standard gas-powered Wrangler is the budget-friendly option.

Is the Jeep Wrangler 4xe a reliable car?

Overall, the Wrangler lineup receives a “fair” grade, which is considered low with regard to predicted reliability and long-term costs.

How fast is the Jeep Wrangler 4xe?

Jeep claims the Wrangler 4xe can reach 60 mph within 6 seconds. Real-world tests show varying degrees, however. Wrangler 4xe testing by Car and Driver and Edmunds.com returned 5.5 seconds and 7 seconds, respectively.