Jeep Wrangler 4xe: A Long-Term Test of Electrified Off-Roading
The Jeep Wrangler. An icon. A symbol of freedom. A vehicle that has conquered trails and captured hearts for decades. But in an era of increasing environmental consciousness, can this rugged legend adapt? The Wrangler 4xe, Jeep’s plug-in hybrid variant, aims to answer that question. After putting the Wrangler 4xe through its paces for over several months and thousands of miles – from daily commutes to weekend adventures – here’s a comprehensive look at what it’s like to live with this electrified off-roader.
The Promise of the 4xe: Bridging Tradition and Technology
The Wrangler 4xe is not merely a Wrangler with a battery pack slapped on. It represents a significant engineering effort to integrate electric power into the Wrangler’s DNA without compromising its core capabilities. The powertrain combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering a combined 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. A 17-kWh battery pack provides a claimed electric-only range of around 21 miles.
The appeal is clear: the ability to silently and cleanly explore nature on electric power alone, coupled with the reassurance of a gasoline engine for longer journeys. But how well does this translate into real-world performance?
On-Road Manners: Surprisingly Refined
One of the most pleasant surprises of the Wrangler 4xe is its on-road behavior. The electric motors provide instant torque, resulting in brisk acceleration. The transition between electric and gasoline power is generally smooth, although occasionally there’s a slight hesitation when the engine kicks in.
In electric mode, the Wrangler 4xe is remarkably quiet and refined, especially around town. This is a stark contrast to the traditional Wrangler, which is known for its wind and road noise. The added weight of the battery pack also contributes to a more planted feel on the highway.
However, it’s important to remember that this is still a Wrangler. The aerodynamics are brick-like, and the solid front axle can lead to some wandering on uneven surfaces. The steering is also less precise than that of a typical SUV. But these quirks are part of the Wrangler’s charm, and the 4xe doesn’t fundamentally alter the driving experience.
Off-Road Prowess: Electric Advantage
Off-road is where the Wrangler 4xe truly shines. The electric motors provide instant torque, which is incredibly useful for crawling over rocks and navigating technical terrain. The ability to precisely control the power delivery with the accelerator pedal makes it easier to maintain traction and avoid wheel spin.
In electric mode, the Wrangler 4xe is also much quieter than a traditional gasoline-powered Wrangler. This allows you to better appreciate the sounds of nature and avoid disturbing wildlife. The reduced noise also makes it easier to communicate with spotters when tackling challenging obstacles.
The Wrangler 4xe retains all the traditional Wrangler off-road features, including a two-speed transfer case, solid axles, and available locking differentials. This ensures that it can handle even the most demanding trails.
Real-World Range and Efficiency: A Mixed Bag
The electric range of the Wrangler 4xe is highly dependent on driving conditions. In ideal conditions, with gentle acceleration and moderate speeds, we were able to achieve close to the claimed 21 miles of electric range. However, in colder weather or with more aggressive driving, the range dropped significantly.
Once the battery is depleted, the Wrangler 4xe operates as a hybrid, using the gasoline engine and electric motors to maximize fuel efficiency. In this mode, we averaged around 20-22 mpg, which is comparable to a traditional gasoline-powered Wrangler.
Charging the battery takes around 2-3 hours with a Level 2 charger and around 12 hours with a standard 120-volt outlet. The charging port is conveniently located on the driver’s side front fender.
Practicality and Livability: Compromises Remain
The Wrangler 4xe retains the traditional Wrangler’s strengths and weaknesses in terms of practicality. The interior is relatively basic, with durable materials and a focus on functionality. The rear seats are cramped, and the cargo area is small, especially with the rear seats in place.
The removable roof and doors are a unique feature that allows you to experience the open air. However, removing and storing the roof and doors can be a hassle, and the open-air experience comes with increased wind noise and exposure to the elements.
The added weight of the battery pack does slightly reduce the Wrangler 4xe’s payload capacity. However, it’s still capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds.
Reliability and Maintenance: Early Observations
During our time with the Wrangler 4xe, we experienced no major mechanical issues. The hybrid powertrain seems to be well-engineered and reliable. However, it’s worth noting that the Wrangler 4xe is a relatively new vehicle, and long-term reliability data is still limited.
Maintenance costs for the Wrangler 4xe are likely to be higher than for a traditional gasoline-powered Wrangler, due to the added complexity of the hybrid powertrain. However, the electric motors should require less maintenance than a traditional engine, and the regenerative braking system should extend the life of the brake pads.
The Verdict: A Compelling, but Not Perfect, Electrified Off-Roader
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is a compelling vehicle that successfully blends tradition and technology. It offers the best of both worlds: the rugged capability of a Wrangler with the efficiency and quietness of an electric vehicle.
However, the Wrangler 4xe is not without its compromises. The electric range is limited, and the fuel efficiency in hybrid mode is only comparable to a traditional gasoline-powered Wrangler. The practicality and livability are also compromised by the Wrangler’s basic design.
Despite these shortcomings, the Wrangler 4xe is a significant step forward for Jeep. It demonstrates that it is possible to electrify an iconic vehicle without sacrificing its core capabilities. If you’re looking for a capable and environmentally friendly off-roader, the Wrangler 4xe is definitely worth considering.
Who is the Wrangler 4xe for?
- Off-road enthusiasts: Who want to explore nature in a more sustainable way.
- City dwellers: Who want to reduce their emissions and enjoy the quietness of electric driving.
- Wrangler fans: Who are open to embracing new technology.
Who is the Wrangler 4xe not for?
- Those who prioritize fuel efficiency above all else: There are other hybrids and EVs that offer better fuel economy.
- Those who need a lot of cargo space or passenger room: The Wrangler is not the most practical vehicle.
- Those who are not comfortable with the Wrangler’s quirks: The Wrangler is a unique vehicle with its own set of compromises.
The Wrangler 4xe is a bold experiment that pays off. It’s not perfect, but it’s a sign of things to come, proving that even the most iconic vehicles can adapt to a changing world.
