Jeep Wrangler plugs it in with the 4XE

In the world of rapidly changing vehicles, consumers continue to explore all options, but when it comes to a hybrid or electric vehicle, ears start to perk as interest grows.

In Grasso’s Garage, we recognize this change and look forward to the idea of an American engineered plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. Well, that time has come and Jeep takes the most recognized vehicle in America and plugs it in.

Just in case you were unsure what model we were talking about, it’s the Wrangler of course, but this time, the Wrangler 4XE. Loaded in Sahara trim and a black sunrider soft top, we had to enjoy the fall-like weather and throw the doors off and cruise around town like a real owner would. Painted in Firecracker Red, this 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo PHEV engine was a real delight to drive.

Coming in with 25 miles of pure electric power, the Wrangler 4XE really hits the fuel mileage category nicely increasing our weekly tester to 27.2 mpge.

Black leather seats, Uconnect infotainment, regenerative charging, what more could you ask for? With the 4XE stripped, I folded the roof back and off a group of friends and I went to an off-road haven in upstate New York. With over 16 miles of trails and total seclusion with no cell phone service or GPS mapping, there was no worry in my mind that the Jeep 4XE wouldn’t live up to the task and it did it so well. With the electric system taking over in most places as speeds were slow and the terrain was rough at best, the animal sightings were in full force.

This allowed us to see bears, deer and various birds as we explored their environment. Similar to our recently tested diesel version, we really appreciate the quietness of the engine and increased fuel/electric mileage but on top of that, the ability to not scare the environment was really special.

Riding on 20-inch black painted aluminum wheels, the ride was similar to other Wranglers and useability. It can tow, store, carry and most importantly in my opinion, look awesome in any weather condition or environment. We enjoyed the heated seats, Siriusxm radio, easy-to-use navigation, and best in automotive, Uconnect infotainment system.

Warranty for the 4XE includes the standard 5 year / 60,000 mile powertrain warranty and an impressive 10 year / 100,000 mile hybrid system and battery warranty. This confirms that Jeep is serious and confident about their semi-transition to electric.

I know I say this a lot, but we love the Wrangler and in any model, trim or PHEV. And to confirm, there will always be a space in Grasso’s Garage for one. MSRP: $47,995

As tested: $54,030

MPG: 49 MPGE / 20 gasoline only / 26.2as tested

MARC GRASSO/MEDIANEWS GROUP The Jeep Wrangler 4XE takes going green to another level, with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo plug-in hybrid electric vehicle engine that hits the trails with vigor while providing a quiet ride that’s great for discovering the local wildlife.