JEEP WRANGLER 4xe: Charming, Ideal for Off-Roading and a plug-in hybrid
PROS: Cool retro styling; impressive off-roading capabilities for a PHEV; and comes with removable top and doors
CONS: Very expensive; steering isn't responsive; tight backseat; and noisy and windy no matter where you drive.
VERDICT: The Wrangler 4xe combines everything we love about Jeep with the innovation of a plug-in hybrid.
Does it have any competitors or rivals?
Toyota 4Runner, Land Rover Defender, and Ford Bronco
What’s interesting about the WRANGLER 4xe?
- The Wrangler is available as a plug-in hybrid on three trims: Sahara, Rubicon, and High Altitude.
- The 4xe generates 375 horsepower and, when fully charged, averaged 22 mpge.
- Everyday driving isn't the most exciting considering the body-on-frame construction, old-school steering, and solid-axle suspension.
- Front seats are more comfortable this year than in previous years.
How about the prices and trims?
The Wrangler 4xe only comes in three trims this year. Sahara starts at $53,795, next Rubicon costs $57,890 and, finally, High Altitude costs $59,370. While these trims come with many luxurious features, the price is still very high. For comparison: the base trim of the Wrangler starts at $33,595. (Be sure to read our separate review of the regular Wrangler.)
Because these trims are so costly, shoppers should expect a long list of standard and optional features. The 4xe can handle off-roading just like the regular Wrangler can, but keep in mind that your average mpg won't be much higher unless you charge the battery often.
Which one do we recommend?
Rubicon offers the ideal combination of features and it's the one we recommend if you're keen to explore the outdoors.
What about its availability?
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe isn't hard to find on dealership lots. Get in touch with your local Jeep dealer to make an appointment for a test drive.
What about its performance and handling?
- The 4xe only comes with a plug-in hybrid system that generates 375 horsepower, making it more powerful than the four-cylinder and V6 that come on the regular Wrangler.
- If you test drive a regular Wrangler and the 4xe one after another, you will notice a difference, mainly because the PHEV system is significantly heavy.
- Four-wheel drive and an automatic transmission come standard.
- When properly equipped, the Wrangler 4xe can tow up to 3,500 pounds.
On the one hand, it's inspiring to see such a powerful PHEV become available on the market, even if the current price tag is very high. Besides being more environmentally friendly, one of the advantages of a hybrid is an increase in average mpg. Unfortunately, the highest average rating you can get for the Wrangler 4xe is 22 mpge on a full charge. If you run out of battery and revert to the engine, that number drops to 20, similar to the regular Wrangler. So to get the most out of the 4xe, prepare yourself to charge often. The standard charger that comes with this model is a Level I charger that takes up to 14 hours to charge fully. A Level II charger is available and reduces that time to two hours.
How’s the interior?
Cabin Space
The 4xe comes standard with four doors, which is a good thing since the backseat isn't the most spacious and getting in can be a challenge, especially for tall adults. Yet, the doors and roof can come off, making hoping inside a lot easier. The cargo space is decent, though not as large as other similarly-sized SUVs.
Compared to other Wrangler trims that can be pretty bare, the 4xe is luxurious. Features such as remote keyless entry, leather upholstery, a heated steering wheel, and an excellent A/C system come standard. For perspective, the base trim of the Wrangler doesn't even have power windows.
Infotainment and connectivity
All 4xe trims feature an 8.4-inch touchscreen display with Uconnect, Jeep's infotainment program. It's easy to use and get used to, even if you've ever owned a Jeep before. Other features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto smartphone integration, voice command with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation service, and extra USB sports. A high-end nine-speaker sound system comes standard, but keep in mind that the cabin gets noisy, so you'll have to crank your music or podcasts way up.
LIKES: A variety of packages are available to customize the cabin further.
DISLIKES: There aren't a lot of cubbies and storage spaces and wireless charging is not available.
How about the technology and features?
LIKES: For the most part, the Wrangler rates average compared to the competition. However, compared to the regular Wrangler, the 4xe comes with more than most.
DISLIKES: Few advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control come standard.
Quick Quirks: The Rubicon 4xe has many features to make off-roading a breeze: 4:1 low-range gearing, rock rails, electronic locking front and rear differentials, and an electronic disconnecting front stabilizer bar. |
Some additional features include:
- Add the forward-facing camera if you plan on going off-roading.
- We recommend adding the trailer tow and advanced safety packages.
- All 4xe trims include an upgraded driver information display so you always know how much battery life you have.
- Despite its shape and size, the design of the 4xe ensures very few blind spots.
How’s the exterior?
The Wrangler 4xe has maintained its look for decades and we're still not tired of it. It's not the most beautiful SUV out there, but it's distinct and ready for action no matter where you drive it. The 4xe comes with several trim decals that make it pop more than the average Wrangler. Who wouldn't want to show off a bit here and there?
What warranty and safety does it offer?
Few advanced safety features come standard and the Wrangler 4xe includes an average warranty package.
- As of this writing, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not provided a rating for the Wrangler 4xe.
- Many safety features come standard, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.
- Limited warranty for 36,000 miles or three years.
- Electric powertrain warranty for 60,000 miles or five years.
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance for 60,000 miles or five years.
Are there any incentives and rebates for the Wrangler 4xe?
To learn about incentives and rebates, visit Jeep.com or your local Jeep dealership. Local and federal governments offer tax credits for owning an EV vehicle. Contact your local government office to discover your options.
2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe in Marietta
