The Jeep Wrangler 4xe – What You Need to Know

If you have been keeping track of the latest news about Jeep SUVs, then you may have heard a few whispers about the Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid. While some purists may be recoiling in shock from the idea of a hybrid Wrangler, the 4xe is the biggest performance upgrade the Wrangler has received in years. Not only does it provide incredible range and fuel economy, but it is also the most powerful Wrangler to ever roll out of the Jeep factory. Not convinced or eager to know more? Let the experts here at Orange Coast walk you through what you need to know about this groundbreaking model.

What Is It?

The new 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is a plug-in hybrid sport utility vehicle that was designed to conquer the great outdoors, just like its traditional counterpart. Don’t let the term “hybrid” fool you. This model is in no way weak. It features Dana 44 axles, a true 4×4 system, a two-speed transfer case, and 10.8-inches of ground clearance for rock crawling. It can also drive through bodies of water that are up to 30-inches deep. So, as you can see, nothing is lost with the new Wrangler 4xe.

Why Is It Necessary?

At this point, you may be wondering why does the world need a plug-in hybrid Wrangler? Well, we are glad you asked. Many people who enjoy off-roading and wild adventures also enjoy the concept of preserving nature. This eco-friendly model was designed to allow you to roam freely and quietly without making as much of an impact as conventional off-roader make. Tread softly on the earth, and she will reveal to you her most beautiful sights.

Performance

The base of the powertrain is centered around a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine. Two electric motors fed by a 17.0 kWh lithium battery complete the plug-in hybrid powertrain. One is mounted to the gasoline engine, and the other is mounted to the eight-speed automatic transmission. As a whole, this unit produces a surprising 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque – significantly more than any of the conventional powertrain options available in the Wrangler.

As for fuel efficiency, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe gets about 50 MPGe. It also boasts an electric-only driving range of 25 miles. This bumps the total combined driving range up to around 400 miles with a full tank of gas and a full charge. What’s even more impressive is the acceleration. In track tests, this model was able to go from zero to 60 mph in just 6 seconds. That’s almost unheard of for an off-road SUV of any kind – hybrid or not.

Charging

The battery pack is mounted underneath the rear seats and can be accessed for maintenance by pulling up the cushion. However, you won’t have to do that often given how reliable modern hybrid batteries are. Charging is even more convenient, with the plug located right in front of the driver’s door for easy access. There is also an LED light located on the charging port that serves as a charging status indicator. If you are sitting inside the vehicle while it is charging, you can monitor the charging process by looking at the LED display located on the instrument panel.

Electric Mode Settings

There are three electric mode settings or “E-Selec” settings. You can choose which one you want to activate by pressing the buttons located at the left of the steering column. For a traditional hybrid experience that balances the use of the gasoline engine and battery, select Hybrid Mode. To save battery power for later, select eSave Mode. Finally, to travel quietly with zero emissions chose Electric Mode. This lets you customize your driving experience to the task at hand.

Regenerative Braking

A common feature of hybrids is regenerative braking. So, of course, the new 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe comes standard with it. As you press the brake pedal, the energy that would be lost to friction is transferred into battery power. This will help keep the vehicle’s battery charged during rush hour traffic so you won’t have to worry about running out of juice due to stop-and-go driving. However, it also has the added benefit of giving you one-pedal control out on the trail.

Versatility

As with every Jeep Wrangler model, the doors and roof panels on the 4xe can still be removed. The Wrangler gained its popularity for its unmatched level of versatility and countless customization options, so it’s great that the engineers at Jeep didn’t scrap those features when they were designing the eco-friendly version. Whenever you take this quiet ride out into nature, you can bring the outside in and enjoy the feel of a cool breeze or the hot sun as you drive.

Appearance

While the 2021 Jeep Wrangler has all-new technology under the hood, it still looks like a Jeep Wrangler. However, there is a way to recognize it as the 4xe model – the exterior is decorated with Electric Blue accents on the hood decal, badges, and tow hooks. As for the cabin, it will also get Electric Blue stitching on the seats and panels for a contrasting look and will have other blue accents to signify its hybrid status.

However, other than these subtle touches, the 4xe is all-Wrangler. Skid plates have also been installed underneath to protect the vehicle from damage while traveling over rocks and rough terrain, while the interior appears to be appointed similarly to the top-tier Rubicon. Jeep Wranglers are also known for having a variety of wheel options, and we expect to see 17 to 20-inch wheels available on this particular version. The entire vehicle is quite aesthetically pleasing and will have heads turning everywhere you go, whether they realize that it is a hybrid or not.

Technology

Since we think that the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe will be similar to Rubicon as far as features go, we also believe that will be the case for the available technology. We expect to see advanced connectivity options, including smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You should be able to stream your favorite songs and apps easily.

We also expect Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and text messaging along with a 4G LTE Wifi hotspot. Plenty of USB ports will most likely be provided for charging your mobile devices, and power outlets will also be present for hooking up accessories during camping trips. Because of the large hybrid battery, there is the potential the 4xe will offer rapid device charging even when the vehicle is turned off.

Find Jeep SUVs Near You

Have you been dreaming of purchasing a Jeep? You’re not alone in that dream. As one of the most recognizable vehicles in the country, the Jeep Wrangler grabs attention everywhere it goes. Ultimate fans have even renamed summer to be called Jeep season. However, there are many other Jeep models available in addition to the Wrangler. Families can enjoy models such as the Jeep Cherokee, Compass, Gladiator, or Grand Cherokee. Whatever your choice, here at Orange Coast, we specialize in adventure vehicles to Costa Mesa drivers. From family road trips to hitting the dunes, we’ve got something on our lot that is perfect for you.