Jeep’s ambitions to electrify its range of
SUVs continue with the introduction of the Wrangler 4xe. Joining the likes of
the Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe, the plug-in hybrid model combines the
2.0-liter turbocharged engine with no less than two electric motors, fed by a
17 kWh lithium-ion battery, positioned beneath the back seats.
The powertrain delivers a combined output
of 375 HP and peak torque of 637 Nm, which means
that the new Wrangler 4xe offers more thrust even than the 3.0-liter V6 diesel
variant.
Charging up the battery will give the new
4×4 an electric range of up to 40 km, with the special driving mode
available via the buttons positioned on the left side of the dashboard. Other
driving modes include the Hybrid and eSave, with the latter saving up the
battery juice for later use. The model also supports one-pedal driving.
Available in ten paint finishes, it
features Electric Blue accents on the outside, and the rugged Rubicon gets the
hue on the hood decal, exterior badges and front and rear tow hooks. The cabin
remains familiar, bar the model-specific gauge cluster and infotainment menus,
and Electric Blue stitching.
Set to arrive at dealerships in the United
States, Europe, and China by early next year, the Wrangler 4xe will be
available in three versions in our market, dubbed the 4xe, Sahara 4xe, and
Rubicon 4xe. The first two will feature standard four-wheel drive, Dana solid
axles, two-speed transfer case, and available limited-slip differential, while
the Rubicon will add the Rock-Trac system, electric front- and rear-axle
lockers, and electronic sway-bar disconnect for improved off-road prowess.
Wearing the Trail Rated badge, the
Wrangler 4xe will become available with a few official accessories, such as the
2-inch lift kit, specially-designed for this model, off-road bumpers, trail
lights, and beadlock-capable wheels, to name but a few.
