It generates more torque than diesel.
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug in hybrid continues Jeep’s quest to electrify all its models. This plug-in hybrid joins the Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe models, which arrived in European showrooms earlier this summer. The Wrangler 4xe still has the Trail Rated badge, which is a result of the addition two electric motors. It can now tackle the off-road trails without any assistance.
Jeep FCA’s turbocharged 2.0 liter engine is paired with two electric motors, and a 400-volt 17-kilowatt hour lithium-ion battery pack under the second row of seats. The plug-in hybrid system generates a total of 375 horsepower (637 Newton-meters), and 470 poundfeet (637 kilowatts). This is more torque than the Wrangler EcoDiesel engine’s 442 lbft.
There are three modes of drive for the powertrain: Hybrid Electric and eSave. The Hybrid and Electric modes do exactly what they name. The default Hybrid mode uses battery power first, before adding gasoline engine power. The Electric mode permits silent, pure electric operation up to the battery’s minimum charge at which point it engages the 2.0-liter engine. Pure-electric driving can be done for up to 25 miles. The last mode is eSave. This allows the driver to save the battery charge so that it can be used later.
Jeep offers some control over how the 4xe package operates, including regenerative braking. Regenerative braking occurs at all four corners when four-wheel drive is activated. Max Regen allows for regenerative brakes when the vehicle receives zero throttle inputs.
The 2021 Wrangler 4xe will arrive at US dealers in early 2021. This is also when China and Europe will get the SUV. It’ll come in three trims: 4xe and Sahara 4xe. Both the base 4xe 4xe and Sahara 4xe come with four-wheel drive systems. They also have front and rear Dana 44 axles. There’s also a Selec Trac two-speed transfer box and a Trac-Loc limited slip differential.
Customers can upgrade to the Wrangler Rubicon4xe and enjoy the Rock-Trac 4×4 System, Tru-Lock front- and back-axle lockers and a 77.2×1 crawl ratio. They also have an electric sway-bar disconnect. Trail Rated badges guarantee rugged Jeep upgrades such as skid plates, towhooks and up to 30inches of water fording.
Jeep is working hard with customers to remind them that the Wrangler is not like the rest. They offer a complete list of aftermarket parts and accessories for the Wrangler 4xe. Jeep created a 2.0-inch lift kit to fit the hybrid Wrangler. Other upgrades include rock rails and off-road bumpers. Jeep will also provide a 240-volt home EV wall charger.
The new Electric Blue color cues are what distinguish the Wrangler 4xe 2021 Wrangler from the rest. It is a color that can be found on Trail Rated badges, Jeep and Trail Rated badges, as well as the Rubicon branding. A few Easter eggs get the blue color. Electric Blue stitching brings the blue theme inside.
Jeep has not released pricing information for the Wrangler 4xe 2021. Customers should be aware that the price of the 4xe models in Europe will likely go up compared to the $32,000 entry-level Wrangler four-door. Official pricing information should be available closer to the SUV’s launch date.