by Gerhard Horn
The Jeep Wrangler can trace its roots back to WWII, which gives it a plucky, patriotic sort of old-world charm. This strict adherence to the past and tradition is why the recently introduced Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in Hybrid is such an interesting deviation. More advanced than the standard model, it has a hybrid engine that develops a combined 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, which is mighty impressive, though not as spectacular as its EPA-rated combined fuel consumption of 49 MPGe and all-electric range of 21 miles. That's more than a Volvo XC90 Recharge. Combined with the Wrangler's superb off-road capabilities, the hybrid powertrain makes an already accomplished SUV even better.
For 2022, the Sahara 4xe trim now comes with blue tow hooks, while all 4xe wheels now have a blue pad print. The High Altitude 4xe comes with new 20-inch wheels along with exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals. Jeep has added a cabin filter that removes 95% of air particulates. Finally, Silver Zynith is a new color that replaces last year's Billet Silver.
See trim levels and configurations:
Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Price (MSRP) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Unlimited Sahara 4xe plug-in hybrid |
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Plug-in Hybrid
|
8-Speed Automatic
|
Four-Wheel Drive
|
$54,595 |
Unlimited High Altitude 4xe plug-in hybrid |
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Plug-in Hybrid
|
8-Speed Automatic
|
Four-Wheel Drive
|
$54,595 |
Unlimited Rubicon 4xe plug-in hybrid |
2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Plug-in Hybrid
|
8-Speed Automatic
|
Four-Wheel Drive
|
$58,395 |
The normal Jeep Wrangler is an old dinosaur that doesn't need to exist anymore. It's more or less the same story with the 4xe, but with less driver guilt. In our opinion, Jeep simply fixed one of the Wrangler's significant problems, which is its seemingly endless hunger for gasoline. Yes, the 21-mile electric range is helpful, but not nearly enough for a proper adventure. Unless you live right next to the 4x4 trail you frequent, the battery will be depleted by the time you get there, which leaves you with a basic Wrangler with a 2.0L turbo four-cylinder engine. The same goes for the low-down torque. It will only be available for a short time, and the rest of the trip will have to be completed on good old-fashioned gas. The V6 diesel makes a lot more sense and is more affordable. Still, we applaud Jeep for giving it a go. The 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Hybrid model gives the SUV a reason to exist in the US, even if that reason is just being a newly electrified fashion accessory that can now go to the mall using only electricity. It's worth noting a safety review of the new Jeep Wrangler range as a whole returned average ratings.
The 4xe is not available in all the usual Wrangler trim lines, like the entry-level Sport. The price of the Wrangler plug-in hybrid range kicks off in Sahara 4xe guise, retailing for $53,795. The Rubicon 4xe sees this increase to $57,495, while the top-spec High Altitude 4xe has an MSRP of $59,370. These prices exclude Jeep's destination charge of $1,595.
Other than the Grand Cherokee PHEV, the Wrangler 4xe is the only Jeep that currently qualifies for a federal tax credit of $7,500.
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