Last year, Jeep came through on enthusiasts’ call for a Wrangler outfitted with a V8, in the Wrangler Rubicon 392. Packed with the infamous 6.4-liter V8, this off-road monster attracted attention everywhere. The 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Sahara tested here shows the complete opposite side of the Wrangler brand. With off road capability and better than expected fuel efficiency from a plug-in hybrid powertrain, the 4xe should win over more of today’s eco-friendly consumers.
With the Wrangler 4xe featuring its first ever plug-in hybrid powertrain, which is also quickly spreading to other models, fuel efficiency is no longer relegated to sedans or coupes. Hybrids have proven to be the perfect in-between for consumers not 100% convinced to purchase a fully electric vehicle at this point in time.
Outside, there is very little to differentiate the 2023 Wrangler 4xe from its petrol brethren. Two blue tow hooks on the front bumper and subtle blue badging will let you know that you have something special under the hood (and floor). Our tester was painted in a very dramatic purple hue that Jeep has named “Reign”. This colour attracted its fair share of attention as well, and getting the “Jeep wave” from other Jeep owners was a common occurrence.
Jump inside and it’s your typical Jeep Wrangler interior. The layout is exactly the same as its regular gasoline versions and the materials used throughout are more utilitarian than luxurious. This makes cleaning the interior extremely easy and owners will be less worried about ruining any fancy materials or carpets. The 8.4-inch multimedia screen is a step up from the standard seven-inch setup. The Alpine sound system is adequate, but audiophiles will look to upgrade the system quickly. Standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are present.
Note that due to the battery packs tucked underneath, cargo space is slightly compromised over its gas-fed Wrangler. While the 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is not considered fast, it does the 100km/h sprint in about six seconds. With two electric motors mated to the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the system can produce up to a combined 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque. The gas motor pumps out a standard 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and the electric motors are powered by a 17.3-kWh battery pack estimated to provide 34 kilometers of pure electric driving range.
Personally, I suffer from range anxiety with any plug in hybrid or EV. While some users may cautiously plan when plug in their vehicle, I choose to plug in whenever possible. Since I live in an apartment, plugging in overnight is not an option. With the Wrangler 4xe fully charged for my commute home each day, I was able to achieve a very impressive 6.4Le/100km in an even city and highway split. Jeep does state a fuel economy rating as low as 4.8Le/100km. Highway speeds will eat away at your battery faster than expected if left in hybrid mode, and regular grade gasoline is sufficient to fill up the 65-liter gas tank.
There is very little doubt how off road capable the 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is with the standard Selec-trac full-time 4WD system. Standard Dana front and rear axles can be found along with skid plates to protect the fuel tank and transfer case. However, with all the off road capabilities offered, on road handling would be considered competent at best. Like any Wrangler, expect it to wallow when driven with enthusiasm.
I do wish that I had the opportunity to enjoy the 2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe during warmer weather. Typically, the full Wrangler experience includes opening up the roof and removing the doors to soak up the sun. As it is, the plug-in hybrid option is a smart choice to offer consumers who use their Wrangler for work commutes under the 50 kilometer range to get the best bang for their buck but also want the off road capability to hit the trails. While the hooligan in me loves the Wrangler 392, the 4xe is the smart choice.
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