The most iconic off-roader in the US has transitioned into a new era with the new Jeep Wrangler 4xe. Available exclusively as a four-door (Unlimited) and powered by a unique plug-in hybrid powertrain, the 4xe is Jeep’s first foray into the electrified vehicle space. Touted by Jeep as the “Industry’s First Electrified Open-Air SUV” the 4xe combines a turbo 4 cylinder engine along with an electric motor built into the 8 speed automatic transmission. This allows for full EV, Hybrid, or E-Save modes, selectable with a push of a button. In full EV mode, the 4xe can go up to 21 miles before the turbo 4 cylinder takes over. Interestingly, the 4WD system of the 4xe is exactly the same as the normal gas models, allowing for the same capability off road. This was done purposely, to prove the capabilities of the PHEV system and show there is no compromise with the 4xe.

While not the most efficient PHEV by any stretch of the imagination, it sure is one of the only ones that can ford 30 inches of water. Indeed, the most important and unique characteristic of the Wrangler 4xe is simply that it is still a Wrangler, which includes all the capabilities, quirky features, and compromises that come with one. Some of those include being able to tow 3,500 pounds, removing the doors, and 20 MPG combined.