The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that offers impressive fuel efficiency compared to traditional gas-powered Wranglers. The 4xe has an EPA-estimated 49 MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) when running on electricity and 20 MPG when powered by gasoline.
This hybrid powertrain allows the 4xe to offer the off-road capability Wrangler owners expect with the efficiency they want. The 4xe can drive up to 21 miles on electricity alone, meaning many daily commutes can be completed without using any gasoline.
For drivers needing to go farther, the 4xe has an overall range of around 370 miles when accounting for both electric and gasoline range. This combines the usability of a standard Wrangler with reduced emissions and lower operating costs.
How Driving Conditions Affect Jeep Wrangler 4xe MPG
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe’s fuel efficiency will vary based on driving conditions. Here’s a look at how city driving, highway driving, and off-road driving can impact MPG.
City Driving and MPG
Stop-and-go city driving brings out the worst in any vehicle’s fuel efficiency. The constant acceleration and braking forces the engine to work harder. Electric vehicles can recapture some energy through regenerative braking, but a hybrid like the 4xe still relies heavily on the gasoline engine in city driving.
The EPA rates the 4xe at 20 MPG for city driving. This makes the 4xe slightly more efficient in the city than the 18 MPG earned by gas-only Wranglers. However, drivers wanting maximum efficiency around town will want to maximize use of the electric motor and avoid using the gasoline engine when possible.
Highway Driving and MPG
At a steady highway speed, vehicles use less energy to overcome inertia and wind resistance. This allows the gasoline engine to operate more efficiently during highway cruising.
The EPA rates the 4xe at 21 MPG during highway driving. This again tops the 19 MPG for highway travel in a standard Wrangler. The 4xe’s highway efficiency advantage comes from the electric motor assisting the gas engine and allowing it to work less hard at speed.
Off-Road Driving and MPG
Rock crawling, mud running, and other off-road activities take a heavy toll on MPG. The constant changes in speed, low gears, and high engine loads burn more fuel. Off-road driving can reduce MPG by 30% or more in some vehicles.
The gasoline-powered Wrangler with its locking differentials and low-range transfer case already suffers a MPG penalty during off-road driving. The 4xe takes an additional hit thanks to the extra weight of its battery and electric motor. Expect MPG to drop dramatically when off the pavement.
However, the 4xe’s massive torque can actually help during slow-speed off-road maneuvers by allowing the driver to use less throttle. The 4xe also has a unique Off-Road Plus driving mode that alters the hybrid system for better low-speed control.
Tips to Improve Jeep Wrangler 4xe Gas Mileage
The Wrangler 4xe offers impressive MPG for a vehicle with its capabilities, but drivers can squeeze out even more efficiency using these gas mileage tips:
Perform Regular Maintenance
Follow the factory-recommended maintenance schedule to keep your 4xe running at peak efficiency. Tasks like air filter changes, oil changes, and spark plug replacements will help performance. Inspect and fix issues early before they impact MPG.
Check Tire Pressures Frequently
Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance which reduces MPG. Check pressures at least monthly and top them off to the door jamb sticker’s recommended PSI. Proper inflation saves fuel.
Use the Correct Grade of Motor Oil
Always use the oil viscosity recommended in the owner’s manual. Lower viscosity oils like 5W-20 provide less friction and drag inside the engine for better MPG. Higher viscosity oils may protect better but hurt efficiency.
Drive Conservatively
Avoid aggressive driving behaviors like rapid acceleration and hard braking. Coast to stops and time stoplights to avoid unnecessary braking. Driving smoothly saves gasoline and maximizes the electric motor’s regeneration capabilities.
Combine Trips and Limit Driving
Eliminate unnecessary small trips and combine driving tasks into longer routes. The shortest journeys use the most fuel since the engine doesn’t reach optimal operating temperature. Limit driving to improve efficiency.
Use Eco Mode
Engage the 4xe’s Eco mode when possible. Eco mode alters throttle response and encourages earlier upshifting to keep engine speeds low and maximize efficiency. The changes are subtle but deliver measurable MPG gains.
Maximize Electric Driving
Plug in daily to keep the battery charged. Use the electric motor as much as possible for low-speed city driving. For longer trips, let the hybrid system automatically mix electric and gasoline power for the best blend of efficiency and performance.
| Driving Condition | MPG Estimate |
|---|---|
| City | 20 MPG |
| Highway | 21 MPG |
| Combined | 49 MPG |
| Electric Only | 20 MPG |
Cost Efficiency and Payback Period Analysis
The Wrangler 4xe costs around $8,000 more than a comparable gas-only Wrangler. With federal tax credits and potential state incentives, the real-world price difference is closer to $3,000-5,000. What’s the payback period on the 4xe’s improved efficiency?
According to the EPA, a standard Wrangler costs around $1,750 a year in fuel costs while the 4xe costs $1,050 annually including electricity. That’s an annual savings of $700 for the hybrid.
At a $4,000 price premium and $700 in annual savings, the payback period is around 5-6 years. Most drivers keep their vehicles 6-7 years, so the 4xe reaches payback right as ownership costs rise later in life. The higher purchase price is counterbalanced by lower operating expenses.
For drivers in states with incentives or who value the 4xe’s torque and silent electric driving, the payback period is even shorter. The 4xe becomes more cost-efficient than gas-only Wranglers for owners who maximize electric miles.
Is the Jeep Wrangler 4xe Worth It?
The Wrangler 4xe is a purpose-built hybrid designed to deliver maximum capability with increased efficiency. For the right buyer, it represents the best combination of electric driving and Jeep ruggedness.
Drivers who value efficiency and short electric commutes should consider the 4xe over standard Wranglers. The excellent low-end torque also makes the hybrid ideal for off-roaders.
However, the 4xe is not the most affordable Wrangler. Shoppers on a budget are better served by a gas-only model. Remember that driving style and trip length impact 4xe savings. Analyze your needs to decide if this advanced Wrangler matches your lifestyle.
For active outdoor adventurers needing to balance fuel costs and functionality, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe hits a sweet spot. The plug-in hybrid provides the green credibility, low-end power, and efficiency these buyers want without sacrificing Jeep’s legendary capability.
References:
https://www.burgerchryslerjeep.net/2023-jeep-wrangler-4xe-mpg/
