The 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe: An In-Depth Exploration
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe represents a groundbreaking step in the evolution of Jeep’s iconic off-road vehicle, blending traditional rugged capability with modern hybrid technology. As Jeep’s first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in the Wrangler lineup, the 4xe offers an intriguing combination of eco-friendliness and adventure-ready performance. This model caters to a new generation of Jeep enthusiasts who value environmental sustainability without sacrificing the off-road prowess and rugged appeal that have made the Wrangler an enduring symbol of freedom and exploration. In this article, we delve into the design, features, powertrain, and overall significance of the 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe.
Design and Exterior Features
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe maintains the classic, instantly recognizable design of the Wrangler, characterized by its boxy shape, round headlights, and seven-slot grille. These design elements have become iconic, symbolizing ruggedness and durability. The Wrangler 4xe adds a modern twist with subtle yet distinctive touches that signal its hybrid nature. For instance, blue accents are strategically placed on the tow hooks, badging, and interior stitching, distinguishing it from its gasoline-powered counterparts.
The front fascia of the Wrangler 4xe is both functional and stylish, featuring LED headlights that provide superior illumination and a contemporary look. The headlights are complemented by LED daytime running lights and fog lamps, enhancing visibility and safety in various driving conditions. The grille, while retaining its classic design, is slightly updated to improve aerodynamics, a subtle nod to the vehicle’s hybrid efficiency.
The Wrangler 4xe continues the tradition of offering a versatile and customizable exterior, including the ability to remove the doors and fold down the windshield, allowing for an immersive open-air driving experience. This feature is a hallmark of the Wrangler, beloved by enthusiasts for the freedom it offers. Additionally, the vehicle 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 convenient way to enjoy the outdoors.
The vehicle’s off-road capabilities are visually emphasized by its high ground clearance, robust skid plates, and large off-road tires. The Rubicon trim, in particular, is equipped with heavy-duty off-road hardware such as Dana 44 axles, an electronic disconnecting front sway bar, and 33-inch all-terrain tires, making it exceptionally capable on challenging terrains. The Wrangler 4xe’s exterior design not only highlights its ruggedness but also includes functional elements that enhance its performance and durability in extreme conditions.
Interior and Comfort
Inside, the 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offers a blend of rugged durability and modern comfort. The interior is designed to withstand the demands of off-road adventures, with materials that are easy to clean and maintain. The floor mats are removable, and the vehicle includes drain plugs for easy cleaning after a day on muddy trails.
The seats in the Wrangler 4xe are comfortable and supportive, designed to provide long-lasting comfort for both short commutes and long journeys. The vehicle offers a choice between cloth and leather upholstery, with the leather option featuring blue stitching that complements the exterior accents. The front seats are heated, providing additional comfort in colder climates, and the driver’s seat is power-adjustable, allowing for a personalized driving position.
The centerpiece of the Wrangler 4xe’s interior is the advanced Uconnect 5 infotainment system. This system, available with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, offers a range of features including navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Uconnect 5 system is user-friendly, featuring a responsive touchscreen, intuitive menus, and clear graphics. The Wrangler 4xe also includes a premium audio system, delivering high-quality sound for an enhanced driving experience. Additional comfort and convenience features include dual-zone automatic climate control, a customizable digital instrument cluster, and available rear-seat entertainment systems, making the Wrangler 4xe a versatile vehicle for both family use and solo adventures.
Powertrain and Performance
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is powered by a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system that combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with two electric motors and a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This setup delivers a total output of 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, making the 4xe one of the most powerful Wranglers ever produced. The powertrain is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient power delivery across a wide range of driving conditions.
The Wrangler 4xe offers three driving modes: Hybrid, Electric, and eSave. In Hybrid mode, the vehicle uses both the gasoline engine and the electric motors to provide a balanced blend of power and efficiency. This mode is ideal for everyday driving, offering responsive acceleration and smooth performance. In Electric mode, the Wrangler 4xe operates solely on electric power, providing a quiet and emissions-free driving experience for up to 21 miles—perfect for short commutes or urban 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 electric torque 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 2022 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 2022 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 2022 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 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe offers a range of options and specifications that make it a versatile and capable plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). Combining the traditional ruggedness of the Wrangler with modern hybrid technology, the 4xe provides both off-road capability and eco-friendly performance. Here’s a detailed look at some key options and specifications:
Powertrain and Performance
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is powered by a sophisticated plug-in hybrid system, featuring:
- 2.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-Four Engine: This engine works in conjunction with two electric motors and a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
- Total System Output: The combined power output is 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque.
- Transmission: An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard, ensuring 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: When combining electric and gasoline power, the vehicle has a total range of approximately 370 miles.
- Acceleration: The 4xe can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.0 seconds.
Drivetrain and Off-Road Capabilities
The Wrangler 4xe maintains the legendary off-road capabilities that Jeep is known for, with several key systems and features:
- 4×4 Systems: Depending on the trim level, the Wrangler 4xe 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, 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: Up to 10.8 inches, depending on the trim and tire options, providing ample clearance for off-road adventures.
- Water Fording: Capable of safely fording water up to 30 inches deep.
Interior Features and Comfort
The interior of the 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe combines durability with modern comforts:
- Seating Options: The seats can be upholstered in cloth or leather, with blue stitching to signify the 4xe’s hybrid nature. The front seats offer heating options for added comfort in colder climates.
- Infotainment System: The Uconnect 5 system features an 8.4-inch touchscreen, offering functionalities such as:
- Navigation
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth connectivity
- SiriusXM satellite radio
- 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 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe includes a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, adjusting speed as necessary.
- 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 the 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 the driver navigate challenging off-road terrain by providing a view of the path ahead.
Exterior Options
- Wheels and Tires: Various sizes and designs are available, including 17-inch, 18-inch, and 20-inch wheels, with options for all-terrain tires for enhanced off-road performance.
- Roof Configurations: Multiple 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 paint colors, from classic tones to vibrant hues, allowing for personal expression.
- Unique Design Elements: Blue accents on the tow hooks, badging, and interior stitching are unique to the 4xe model, highlighting its hybrid powertrain.
Towing and Payload
- Towing Capacity: The 2022 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 around 1,100 pounds, depending on the configuration and options.
The 2022 Jeep Wrangler 4xe is an innovative addition to the Jeep lineup, offering the best of both worlds: the off-road capability and rugged design that Jeep is known for, combined with modern hybrid technology for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. It provides a range of features and options that cater to different preferences and needs, making it an attractive choice for those who seek adventure and sustainability in a single package. Whether navigating urban environments in electric mode or tackling challenging trails, the Wrangler 4xe delivers a unique and engaging driving experience.