2021 Jeep Wrangler Review: 4xe Hybrid and Wrangler Unlimited Difference
2021 Jeep Wrangler Review: 4xe Hybrid and Wrangler Unlimited Difference
Posted on May 26, 2021
The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most famous and successful off-road vehicles in history, occupying the SUV space before the term was even invented. 2021 sees a huge development in the range, with the release of the 4xe plugin hybrid model, bringing genuine electric power to the trail-crawling party. How does the new model stack up against its gas-powered Wrangler siblings? Read our Jeep Wrangler 4xe vs Unlimited comparison review to find out.
Powertrains and Performance
The Unlimited is based around a high-end Jeep gas engine, with a 3.6L V6 pushing out 285 horsepower and 260lb-ft of torque. Considering the Wrangler's lightweight but rugged design, this output is ample for crawling over rocks and powering up difficult gradients.
However, the 4xe's hybrid powertrain takes power and performance to the next level. A 2.0L turbo gas engine is coupled with dual electric motors to give a combined output of 375 horsepower and 470lb-ft of torque, with the torque instantly available thanks to the electric technology. This high power pushes the 4xe from 0-100km/h in less than six seconds, although bearing in mind the extra weight of the 16kWh battery pack, not all the extra output is converted into raw performance.
However, the 4xe's electric-only range of 40km and attractive fuel economy of 4.7L /100km seal the deal and make the hybrid model the natural choice for performance.
Towing Capacity
At first glance, it's surprising that both vehicles have the same towing capacity of an extremely healthy 1,588kg. The 4xe's extra output should in theory allow it to haul greater loads, but the weight of the battery pack doubtless comes into play here. But in either case, the capacity is more than enough for most people's needs, outshining plenty of rivals in the SUV market.
Dimensions
There's no immediate sign that the 4xe is packing a large battery, and from the exterior, both Wrangler versions look very similar. However, the 4xe has an extra 3.7cm of width at both front and rear, along with 1.1cm more ground clearance, giving a shade of extra stability for off-road duties.
Jeep Wrangler 4xe vs Unlimited: The Verdict
The Wrangler sets the standard for off-road prowess combined with city-friendly comforts, and the Unlimited is a great example of the range. However, the 4xe Hybrid genuinely breaks new ground and adds a whole new dimension to wilderness exploration with its instant torque and high combined horsepower. If you want to take your Wrangler deep into challenging territory, the 4xe Hybrid is an unbeatable choice.