In the first quarter of 2023, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid SUV accounted for 38% of total Wrangler sales. In the not-too-distant future, that number is likely to grow even more, thanks to the powertrain trickling down to more affordable trim levels. Last week, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler refresh was revealed, and with it came the news that the 4xe powertrain, which features 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque while returning 49 MPGe, will be available on the Sport S trim. The Wrangler Sport S sits between the bare-bones Wrangler Sport and the more capable Willys, and well below the top-tier Rubicon.
In addition to the 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Sport S announcement, all 4xe Wranglers will offer what’s being called a Jeep 4xe Power Box, which features four 120-volt outlets with 30 amps of total output, allowing the battery pack to power external devices, such as camping lights, coffee makers, laptops, and more. On top of that, the Willys 4xe adds the Selec-Trac full-time transfer case with a 4LO ratio of 2.72:1.
Image via Jeep
Like the rest of the 2024 Wrangler lineup, the 4xe family all feature a standard 12.3-inch digital touchscreen, power windows and door locks, adaptive cruise control with stop, forward collision warning, side curtain airbags, remote keyless entry, premium soft-top, 20-inch aluminum wheels and Gorilla glass windshield.
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe powertrain integrates two electric motors and a 400-volt battery pack a 2.0L turbo engine and ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission. Unique to the segment, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe’s E Selec modes allow the driver to tailor the hybrid powertrain to best suit each trip, whether it is filling the needs of most daily commutes in pure-electric operation – which is up to 21 total miles of range. They Selec modes consist of:
- Hybrid: The default mode blends torque from the 2.0-liter engine and electric motor. In this mode, the powertrain will use battery power first, then add in propulsion from the 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 when the battery reaches minimum state of charge
- Electric: The powertrain operates on zero-emission electric power only until the battery reaches the minimum charge or the driver requests more torque (such as wide-open throttle), which engages the 2.0-liter engine
- eSave: Prioritizes propulsion from the 2.0-liter engine, saving the battery charge for later use, such as EV off-roading or urban areas where internal combustion propulsion is restricted. The driver can also choose between Battery Save and Battery Charge during eSave via the Hybrid Electric Pages in the Uconnect monitor
Dealer ordering for 2024 Jeep Wrangler lineup is already open, and deliveries are expected start the second half of this year. Pricing for the refreshed Wrangler family- has not yet been made public.
Image via Jeep
