When you say “Wrangler,” most gearheads picture raw gas-powered torque, rugged axles, and the unmistakable Wrangler rumble. Enter the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, a plug-in electric twist on the icon. But as modifications go, is the Wrangler 4xe genuinely worth taking over its gas-only sibling? Let’s dig into the details.

Powertrain & Driving Feel

The Wrangler 4xe pairs the tried and tested 2.0L turbocharged engine with dual electric motors and a 17‑kWh battery pack. Combined output: a muscular 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of instant torque. In pure electric mode, torque delivery is seamless. No gearbox hunting, no lag. In contrast, the standard Gas Wrangler runs on 285–325 hp’s worth of gas-burner joy, with its classic 8-speed automatic humming along. While you lose acceleration compared to the 4xe, you retain that throttle-before-you-know-it feeling that Jeep owners adore.

Off-Road Performance

Both Wranglers share solid Dana axles, 4:1 low-range, and removable doors/roof. On tight rock trails or slick clay, the 4xe nails line accuracy thanks to regenerative downhill braking, but it weighs roughly 500 pounds more than its gas counterpart. The gas Wrangler, much lighter, may climb better in some extreme conditions, though it misses out on the silent EV creep and low-end grunt.

Fuel Economy & Range

Here’s where the 4xe shines. It can go nearly 20–25 miles in EV-only mode, perfect for local errands or trailheads. Before switching to hybrid and delivering 50+ MPGe. Real-world driving? Expect low-to-mid‑20s MPG in gas mode. The gas Wrangler, meanwhile, gets a traditional 17–19 MPG, reassuring, predictable, but thirsty on highway/off-road runs.

Cost & Customization

The 4xe carries a $8–10K premium over the base Sahara gas model. You’ll also need access to home or public charging unless you treat it like a regular hybrid. But savings from gas economy might offset part of that, especially if you can charge at home or office. For modders, aftermarket support is growing. Think dual‑battery kits, lift combos, and EV-friendly power management upgrades.

Is It Worth It?

The Wrangler 4xe is a compelling option for drivers wanting torque-rich green tech without ditching Jeep’s essential character. If your build includes trail runs, weekend errand-zone driving, and a future-forward approach, the hybrid hit is real. But if pure off-road weight, throttle punch, and a no-nonsense wrench-ready ride are your priority, the gas Wrangler remains an unforgiving classic.