Most eco-friendly Wrangler 4xe revealed

KUALA LUMPUR: Yes, you read it right. We now have amongst us the most eco-friendly and technically advanced iteration of the icon 4X4 - the plug-in-hybrid Wrangler 4Xe. The car is scheduled to go on sale in the international market early next year, and the company claims it offers highly improved usability, both on- and off-road, over a standard car.

The new PHEV Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the latest addition to the brand's electric car lineup after the hybrid Compass and Renegade. Jeep earlier revealed its ambition to electrify its entire model lineup in the coming years.

Christian Meunier, Global President Jeep Brand & Member of FCA Group Executive Council, said, "We are committed to making Jeep the greenest SUV brand. The electrification of the Jeep lineup will allow commuters to travel solely on electric power, delivering an efficient and fun on-road experience and offering an ability to enjoy even more Jeep capability off-road in nearly complete silence."

The Wangler 4xe will be offered in three trim options -

• Jeep Wrangler 4xe (Entry-level)
• Jeep Wrangler Sahara (Mid-spec)
• Jeep Wrangler Rubicon (Range-topping)

The base and mid-range Wangler 4xe trims will come equipped with full-time four-wheel-drive, a heavy-duty Dana 44 axles, and a two-speed transfer case. The fully-loaded Rubicon trim, on the other hand, will come with improved articulation, improved suspension travel (thanks to a front sway bar disconnect), axle lockers, and an upgraded Rock-Track 4X4 system.

As far as its styling is concerned, Jeep has added a few blue highlights on the outside and inside which help differentiate the standard and hybrid variants. Added to the list are blue badging, tow hooks, and a few interior elements.

Coming to its under the hood configuration, the Wrangler 4xe gets a 2.0-litre 4-CYL turbo petrol engine coupled with two electric motors. In totality, the system generates a maximum power of 375 hp and a peak torque of 637 Nm. The power is sent to the wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

The two electric motors - one in front of the engine and the other just before the gearbox, draws power from a 400-volt, 17kWh battery pack that is placed below the rear bench. The placement of the battery pack ensures there is no alteration in the vehicle's cabin dimensions. The air-con system refrigerant helps cool down the battery pack when needed.

Also, on offer are three drive modes - Electric, Hybrid, and eSave, a 'Max Regen' function that optimizes electric energy generation, and a new 'Eco Coaching' display that allows drivers to optimise the use of regenerative braking and monitor power flow.

In other news, Jeep plans to launch a couple of cars in the coming years, including the Compass facelift, a seven-seater SUV based on Compass, next-gen Grand Cherokee, and more.

Also Read: 2020 Jeep Wagoneer teaser video released