2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid: specs and on-sale date
New Jeep Wrangler 4xe has plug-in hybrid power for 375bhp and a 25-mile electric range
This is the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, a plug-in hybrid version of the US brand's iconic off-road-focused SUV. The car joins the Jeep line-up as its third plug-in hybrid, alongside the Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe SUVs – but is not yet confirmed for sale in the UK. It'll go on sale in the US at the start of 2021 as a rival to the forthcoming plug-in hybrid version of the Land Rover Defender.
The Wrangler 4xe is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine and an electric motor, fed by a 17kWh battery, which can provide a pure-electric range of up to 25 miles, according to Jeep. Total output is an impressive 375bhp, with 635Nm of torque to make light work of off-roading. Four-wheel drive features, naturally, along with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Claimed performance figures are 0-62mph in less than 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 80mph in electric mode, or 124mph with both the engine and motor in play.
Three driving modes are offered to help make the most of the Wrangler's plug-in hybrid system. 'Hybrid' is the default setting – this shuffles between electric and internal-combustion power to maximise efficiency; 'Electric' is the pure-electric mode; and 'eSave' can be used to conserve battery charge for deployment at a time of the driver's choosing.
These modes are selected using an updated version of the existing car's infotainment system, which also includes various hybrid-specific data displays. A separate 'Max Regen' setting can be activated to maximise the regenerative braking system's recharging of the car's battery. As yet, there are no details on charging speed, but expect the 4xe to charge overnight from a three-pin cable on a domestic supply.
Despite its new-found electrification, the Wrangler retains its off-road prowess. In fact, Jeep claims that the plug-in version of the car has improved approach and departure angles, and still has a wading depth of up to 76cm – the same as the standard car.
Three trim levels will be offered: 4xe, Sahara 4xe and Rubicon 4xe. Even the lower two trims come with front and rear locking differentials and a low-range gearbox with selectable crawl speeds and hill-descent control, plus underbody skid plates, 17-inch alloys and 33-inch off-road tyres. Top-spec Rubicon cars add improved suspension articulation thanks to an electronically decoupling anti-roll bar, further boosting off-road ability.
Visually, the plug-in hybrid Wrangler is set apart by the brand's 'Electric Blue' detailing, which can be seen on front and rear tow-hooks and select other trim pieces on Rubicon models.