Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe debuts in the US with a vintage twist

KUALA LUMPUR: Known as the best version of the iconic Jeep Wrangler, the Wrangler 4xe is one of the most popular off-roading PHEVs on sale in the US. While taking the leverage of that popularity, the American marque has just expanded the model’s hybrid lineup with the introduction of the new trim, the Wrangler Willys 4xe.

Jeep has put up the new Wrangler trim on display at the ongoing Detroit Auto Show in the country. It will hit the Jeep US showrooms in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Positioned as the entry-level Wrangler 4xe, the new variant benefits from heritage-inspired visual enhancements like a blackened grille, a Willys decal on the hood, electric blue accents on the tow hooks (front & rear), rock rails, and a ‘Trail Rated’ badge. The SUV rolls on  17-inch black alloy wheels shod with 255/75 mud-terrain tyres. 

Also, parts of the equipment kit are LED headlamps and fog lamps, Dana 44 axles, a factory suspension lift with 10.1 inches of ground clearance, and a rear limited-slip differential 

Inside the new Wrangler Willys 4xe, the customers get an 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system, all-weather floor mats, Alpine nine-speaker audio, and Sun and Screen Package with a One-Touch Power-Top.

Powering the new Wrangler is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder mill paired with a motor generator unit and a 400-volt 17-kWh NMC battery pack. The setup generates a maximum power of 375 hp and a peak torque of 637 Nm, transferred to the wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Drivers can choose between three selectable driving modes - Hybrid, Electric, and eSave. These modes function as -

• In the Hybrid mode, the engine works in tandem with the electric motor
• in the Electric mode, the vehicle becomes an electric vehicle until the battery comes to a minimum charge  
• In eSave mode, the system gives priority to the gasoline engine while saving battery for later use

The Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe price in the US starts at $53,995 (excluding destination charge and taxes).

Also read: Say hello to Jeep’s first-ever electric SUV, the Avenger