The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe marks a significant leap forward, blending Jeep’s legendary off-road prowess with advanced plug-in hybrid technology. This innovative vehicle delivers a unique combination of eco-friendly operation and exhilarating performance, setting a new standard for capability and responsibility in the SUV market. As the automotive landscape shifts towards electrification, the Wrangler 4xe stands out as a testament to Jeep’s commitment to both its heritage and a sustainable future.
Unleashing Electric Power: The Wrangler 4xe Powertrain
At the heart of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe lies a sophisticated powertrain engineered for both efficiency and power. This system harmoniously integrates a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors and a high-capacity battery pack. The result is a robust 375 horsepower and a formidable 470 lb.-ft. of torque, translating to brisk acceleration and ample power for any adventure, on or off the paved road.
The Wrangler 4xe’s intelligent hybrid system is designed for versatility. It offers an estimated 50 MPGe, significantly reducing fuel consumption while providing the flexibility to tackle daily commutes on electric power alone. With up to 21 miles of pure electric range, many drivers can experience zero-emission driving for their typical daily journeys, then seamlessly switch to hybrid operation for longer trips without range anxiety.
Key Components of the 4xe Powertrain:
- 2.0-liter Turbocharged I-4 Engine: Part of FCA’s Global Medium Engine family, this high-tech engine features direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger for responsive performance and fuel efficiency.
- Engine-Mounted Motor Generator Unit: Replacing the conventional alternator, this motor generator ensures seamless start-stop operation and generates electricity to charge the battery pack.
- Transmission-Mounted Motor Generator Unit: Integrated into the TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, this motor generator replaces the torque converter and works with clutches to manage power flow from the engine and electric motor.
- 400-Volt, 17-kWh Battery Pack: A 96-cell lithium-ion battery pack, utilizing nickel manganese cobalt chemistry, is strategically placed under the second-row seat for protection and optimal weight distribution.
The battery pack’s placement is a testament to smart engineering. Positioned beneath the rear seat, it’s shielded from the elements and doesn’t compromise interior space. A dedicated cooling and heating circuit maintains the battery at its ideal temperature, ensuring peak performance and longevity. Furthermore, the Wrangler 4xe boasts a water fording capability of up to 30 inches, a testament to the sealed and waterproof nature of its high-voltage electronics, maintaining Jeep’s legendary off-road standards.
Electric Driving Modes: Tailoring Performance to Your Needs
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offers drivers unprecedented control over their driving experience with E Selec modes. These modes allow you to optimize the powertrain for different driving scenarios, maximizing efficiency or electric operation as desired. Easily selectable via buttons on the instrument panel, these modes seamlessly integrate electric power into your daily drive.
- Hybrid Mode: This is the default mode, intelligently blending power from both the 2.0-liter engine and the electric motor. It prioritizes electric power initially, seamlessly engaging the gasoline engine when needed for increased demand or when the battery reaches its minimum charge.
- Electric Mode: For zero-emission driving, Electric Mode allows you to operate solely on battery power until the battery nears depletion or when greater torque is demanded, at which point the gasoline engine will smoothly activate.
- eSave Mode: If you want to reserve battery power for later use, such as off-roading in EV mode or driving in urban areas with restrictions, eSave mode prioritizes the 2.0-liter engine. Within eSave, drivers can further choose between Battery Save (maintaining battery charge) and Battery Charge (actively charging the battery).
To further enhance the electric driving experience, the Wrangler 4xe incorporates regenerative braking. This system captures energy during deceleration and braking, converting it back into electricity to recharge the battery, improving efficiency and extending brake pad life. The Max Regen feature amplifies this effect, providing more assertive regenerative braking when coasting, maximizing energy recovery.
Uncompromising Off-Road Capability: Jeep DNA Electrified
The integration of electric power in the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe doesn’t just enhance efficiency; it elevates its legendary off-road capability to new heights. The instant torque delivery of the electric motor provides unparalleled control and responsiveness in challenging off-road situations. Whether you’re rock crawling or navigating steep inclines, the electric motor delivers precise power exactly when you need it, minimizing driveline stress and maximizing driver confidence.
In Electric Mode, off-roading becomes a uniquely serene experience. The near-silent operation allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural environment, appreciating the sounds of nature without engine noise. This silent capability also minimizes disturbance to wildlife, making the Wrangler 4xe a more responsible choice for off-road enthusiasts.
The Wrangler 4xe retains Jeep’s Trail Rated designation, signifying its proven off-road prowess. It’s equipped with:
- Solid front and rear axles
- Full-time 4×4 two-speed transfer case
- Fully articulating suspension
- Up to 30 inches of water fording capability
- Skid plates and tow hooks
The Wrangler 4xe is available in Sahara 4xe, Rubicon 4xe, and High Altitude 4xe models, each offering specific 4×4 systems and features to cater to different levels of off-road adventure. Rubicon 4xe models, in particular, feature the Rock-Trac 4×4 system with a 4:1 low-range gear ratio and Tru-Lok electric front and rear axle lockers, providing exceptional crawl ratios for tackling the most demanding trails.
Distinctive Design: Electric Blue Accents and Wrangler Heritage
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe maintains the iconic Wrangler design, instantly recognizable and functional, while incorporating unique “Electric Blue” accents to signify its advanced electrified powertrain. These subtle yet distinctive cues highlight the Wrangler 4xe’s innovative technology without compromising its rugged appeal.
Electric Blue accents are strategically placed on:
- Front and rear Rubicon tow hooks
- “Rubicon” hood decal lettering
- Jeep badges
- Trail Rated badges
- Hood decal outline with “4xe” cutout
Inside the Wrangler 4xe Rubicon, Electric Blue stitching further distinguishes the interior, adding a touch of modern flair to the rugged cabin. The Wrangler 4xe is available in a range of exterior colors and interior options, allowing for personalization while retaining the core Wrangler aesthetic.
Expanding the 4xe Family: Renegade and Compass 4xe
The 2021 Wrangler 4xe is part of a growing Jeep 4xe family, which includes the Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe models already available in Europe. These plug-in hybrid models share the 4xe commitment to blending electric efficiency with Jeep capability, offering electrified options across the Jeep lineup. The Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe deliver up to 240 horsepower and approximately 31 miles of electric range, demonstrating Jeep’s global commitment to electrification.
Mopar and Jeep Performance Parts: Enhance and Personalize
To further enhance the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Mopar and Jeep Performance Parts (JPP) offer a comprehensive catalog of factory-engineered accessories. These parts are designed to seamlessly integrate with the Wrangler 4xe, maintaining its factory warranty and ensuring the highest standards of quality and performance.
The JPP catalog includes:
- Industry-first OEM-developed 2-inch lift kit specifically tuned for the Wrangler 4xe
- Beadlock-capable wheels
- Off-road bumpers
- LED off-road lights
- Rock rails
- 240-volt at-home EV wall charger (available through Amazon.com)
These accessories allow owners to personalize their Wrangler 4xe and further enhance its off-road capabilities, ensuring it’s ready for any adventure.
Conclusion: The Future of Jeep is Electric
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is more than just a new model; it represents a pivotal moment for the Jeep brand. It successfully marries legendary off-road capability with cutting-edge electric technology, creating a vehicle that is both environmentally conscious and thrilling to drive. The Wrangler 4xe signals Jeep’s commitment to a future where electrification and adventure go hand in hand, offering drivers the freedom to explore responsibly, without compromise. As Jeep continues to expand its 4xe lineup, the Wrangler 4xe sets the benchmark for electric SUVs, proving that sustainability and capability can powerfully coexist.
