The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe: An In-Depth Exploration
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe marks a significant milestone in the evolution of Jeep’s iconic off-road vehicle, combining the brand’s legendary off-road capabilities with cutting-edge plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) technology. This innovative model represents Jeep’s first foray into the electrified world, offering a unique blend of ruggedness, environmental consciousness, and modern technology. The Wrangler 4xe is designed for those who want to enjoy the thrill of off-roading while also being mindful of their environmental impact. In this article, we explore the design, features, powertrain, and overall impact of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe.
Design and Exterior Features
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe retains the classic, rugged design that has made the Wrangler an enduring symbol of adventure and freedom. The vehicle’s exterior is instantly recognizable with its boxy shape, iconic seven-slot grille, and round headlights. While staying true to its heritage, the Wrangler 4xe introduces subtle design elements that differentiate it from its traditional gasoline-powered siblings. Notably, blue accents are present throughout the vehicle, including on the tow hooks, badging, and interior stitching, signifying its hybrid status.
The front fascia of the Wrangler 4xe features modern LED headlights, which not only enhance visibility but also provide a contemporary touch to the vehicle’s classic look. These headlights are complemented by LED daytime running lights and fog lamps, ensuring that the vehicle is well-equipped for a variety of driving conditions. The grille and bumper design are slightly updated to improve aerodynamics and accommodate the vehicle’s hybrid components, though these changes are subtle and maintain the vehicle’s rugged aesthetic.
One of the standout features of the Wrangler 4xe’s design is its versatility. The vehicle continues to offer removable doors and a fold-down windshield, allowing for an open-air driving experience that is highly sought after by Jeep enthusiasts. Additionally, the Wrangler 4xe can be equipped with the Sky One-Touch Power Top, a feature that allows the roof to be retracted at the push of a button, providing a seamless transition to an open-top configuration.
The vehicle’s off-road readiness is visually emphasized by its high ground clearance, robust skid plates, and available off-road tires. The Rubicon trim, in particular, is designed for serious off-road enthusiasts, featuring heavy-duty hardware such as Dana 44 axles, an electronic disconnecting front sway bar, and 33-inch all-terrain tires. These features make the Rubicon exceptionally capable in challenging terrains, underscoring the Wrangler 4xe’s commitment to maintaining Jeep’s legendary off-road prowess.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe combines the rugged durability expected of a Wrangler with modern comforts and technology. The interior is designed to be both practical and comfortable, with materials that are easy to clean and maintain. The vehicle’s floor mats are removable, and it includes drain plugs, making it easy to clean out mud and water after an off-road adventure.
The seats in the Wrangler 4xe are both supportive and comfortable, designed for long journeys and off-road excursions alike. The vehicle offers a choice between cloth and leather upholstery, with the leather option featuring blue stitching that matches the exterior accents. The front seats are available with heating, which is particularly useful in colder climates, and the driver’s seat is power-adjustable, allowing for a personalized driving position.
A key highlight of the Wrangler 4xe’s interior is the advanced Uconnect 5 infotainment system. This system is available with an 8.4-inch touchscreen and offers a wide range of features, including navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Uconnect 5 system is known for its user-friendly interface, featuring intuitive menus, responsive touch controls, and clear graphics. Additionally, the vehicle offers a premium audio system, delivering high-quality sound for an enhanced driving experience. The Wrangler 4xe also includes modern conveniences such as dual-zone automatic climate control, a customizable digital instrument cluster, and available rear-seat entertainment options, making it a versatile vehicle for both daily use and adventure.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is powered by an innovative plug-in hybrid system that blends a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with two electric motors and a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This setup provides a total output of 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, making the 4xe one of the most powerful Wranglers available. The powertrain is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and efficient power delivery across various driving conditions.
The Wrangler 4xe offers three distinct driving modes: Hybrid, Electric, and eSave. In Hybrid mode, the vehicle uses both the gasoline engine and electric motors to deliver a balanced blend of power and efficiency, making it ideal for everyday driving. Electric mode allows the Wrangler 4xe to operate solely on electric power, providing a quiet and emissions-free driving experience for up to 21 miles, perfect for short commutes or city driving. The eSave mode prioritizes the use of the gasoline engine, conserving battery charge for later use, which can be particularly useful when planning to use electric power for specific segments of a journey, such as off-road trails where the immediate torque from the electric motors can enhance control and precision.
The electric motor’s instant torque delivery is especially advantageous in off-road situations, where precise power application is crucial. The Wrangler 4xe retains Jeep’s legendary off-road capability, featuring advanced 4×4 systems such as the Selec-Trac and Rock-Trac systems, depending on the trim level. These systems include full-time 4WD, a two-speed transfer case, and available locking differentials, ensuring that the Wrangler 4xe can tackle a variety of terrains with ease. The Rubicon trim, designed for serious off-road enthusiasts, includes heavy-duty components like rock rails, skid plates, and an advanced suspension system, making it capable of handling the most challenging conditions.
Technology and Safety
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced technology and safety features. The Uconnect 5 system offers a range of connected services, including real-time traffic updates, weather information, and more. The system supports multiple user profiles, allowing different drivers to save their preferred settings for climate control, seat position, and infotainment features.
Safety is a key focus for Jeep, and the Wrangler 4xe includes a range of driver-assistance technologies designed to enhance safety and convenience. Standard safety features include adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, and blind-spot monitoring, which alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind spots. Rear cross-traffic alert warns of approaching vehicles when reversing, and the forward collision warning system with active braking helps prevent or mitigate collisions. The Wrangler 4xe also offers a ParkView rear backup camera, which provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle, and an available forward-facing off-road camera, which helps drivers navigate challenging terrain by providing a view of the path ahead.
Market Positioning and Conclusion
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe stands out in the SUV market as a unique blend of classic Jeep capability and modern hybrid technology. It offers an attractive option for environmentally conscious consumers who want to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing performance or off-road prowess. With its powerful hybrid powertrain, advanced technology, and iconic design, the Wrangler 4xe provides a versatile and engaging driving experience that is equally at home on city streets and rugged trails.
The introduction of the Wrangler 4xe reflects Jeep’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, paving the way for a more eco-friendly future in the SUV segment. Whether used for daily commuting, weekend getaways, or off-road adventures, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe delivers on its promise of adventure and capability, making it a standout choice for those who want the best of both worlds.
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offers a range of options and specifications, combining traditional off-road prowess with modern hybrid technology. This plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) model provides versatility for both urban and rugged terrains, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of drivers. Here’s a detailed look at the options and specifications:
Powertrain and Performance
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is equipped with a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system that includes:
- 2.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-Four Engine: This engine works in tandem with two electric motors and a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
- Total System Output: The hybrid system delivers a combined output of 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: An 8-speed automatic transmission ensures smooth and efficient power delivery.
- Electric Range: The Wrangler 4xe can travel up to 21 miles on electric power alone, ideal for short commutes and urban driving.
- Total Range: Combining electric and gasoline power, the vehicle has a total range of approximately 370 miles.
- Performance: The 4xe can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.0 seconds.
The vehicle offers three driving modes:
- Hybrid Mode: This mode uses both the gasoline engine and electric motors to optimize performance and efficiency.
- Electric Mode: In this mode, the Wrangler 4xe operates solely on electric power, offering a quiet and emissions-free driving experience.
- eSave Mode: This mode conserves battery charge by prioritizing the use of the gasoline engine, which can be useful for off-road scenarios where electric torque may be needed later.
Drivetrain and Off-Road Capabilities
The Wrangler 4xe is renowned for its off-road capabilities, equipped with several key systems:
- 4×4 Systems: Depending on the trim, the vehicle can be equipped with either the Selec-Trac or Rock-Trac 4×4 systems.
- Selec-Trac: A full-time four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case.
- Rock-Trac: Available on the Rubicon trim, this system includes a two-speed transfer case with a 4:1 low-range gear ratio, electronic locking differentials, and an electronic disconnecting front sway bar for enhanced off-road performance.
- Ground Clearance: The vehicle offers significant ground clearance, up to 10.8 inches, depending on the trim and tire options.
- Water Fording: Capable of safely fording water up to 30 inches deep, making it suitable for a variety of off-road conditions.
Interior Features and Comfort
The interior of the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe blends rugged durability with modern conveniences:
- Seating Options: The vehicle offers cloth or leather upholstery, with the leather option featuring blue stitching to signify the 4xe’s hybrid nature. The front seats are available with heating for added comfort in cold weather.
- Infotainment System: The Uconnect 5 system, available with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, includes features such as:
- Navigation
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth connectivity
- SiriusXM satellite radio
- Voice command integration
- Audio Systems: A standard audio system is available, with an optional Alpine premium audio system for enhanced sound quality.
- Additional Features: The vehicle also includes dual-zone automatic climate control, a customizable digital instrument cluster, and available rear-seat entertainment systems.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The 2021 Wrangler 4xe is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead and adjusts speed accordingly.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring: Alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind spots, enhancing safety during lane changes.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Warns of vehicles approaching from the sides when reversing.
- Forward Collision Warning with Active Braking: Detects potential collisions and applies brakes to mitigate or prevent accidents.
- ParkView Rear Backup Camera: Provides a view behind the vehicle to assist with parking.
- Forward-Facing Off-Road Camera: Available on certain trims, this camera helps navigate challenging off-road terrain by providing a view of the path ahead.
Exterior Options
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offers various exterior features and customization options:
- Wheel and Tire Options: The vehicle offers multiple sizes and designs, including 17-inch, 18-inch, and 20-inch wheels, with options for all-terrain tires for improved off-road performance.
- Roof Configurations: The Wrangler 4xe offers several roof options, including:
- Standard hardtop
- Sky One-Touch Power Top for a convenient open-air experience
- Freedom Top three-piece modular hardtop
- Sunrider soft top
- Exterior Colors: A wide range of color options, from classic tones to more vibrant hues, allowing for personalization.
- Unique Design Elements: The 4xe model features blue accents on the tow hooks, badging, and interior stitching, highlighting its hybrid powertrain.
Towing and Payload
- Towing Capacity: The Wrangler 4xe can tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it suitable for light trailers and recreational equipment.
- Payload Capacity: The vehicle can handle a payload of approximately 1,100 pounds, depending on the configuration and options.
The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe combines the best of Jeep’s off-road heritage with modern hybrid technology, offering a unique blend of capability and eco-friendly performance. It provides a range of features and options that cater to different preferences and needs, making it an attractive choice for those seeking adventure and sustainability in a single package. Whether navigating city streets in electric mode or tackling challenging off-road trails, the Wrangler 4xe delivers a distinctive and engaging driving experience.