The Jeep Wrangler is a rugged SUV known for its off-road ability. With its body-on-frame construction, live axles, and spartan interior, the Wrangler eschews advanced technology for old-fashioned iron. But that’s changed with the new 4xe model.

Featuring a plug-in hybrid powertrain, the 4xe adds high-tech efficiency to the Wrangler equation. And buyers like what they see, with the new model comprising almost half of Wrangler sales this year. Let’s take a look at the Wrangler 4xe’s specs and features, and why it’s such a hit with Jeep buyers.

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is proving to be incredibly popular

According to Jeep’s owner, Stellantis, the Wrangler 4xe is a runaway hit in the first quarter of 2023.

Just look at the highlights:

• America’s best-selling plug-in hybrid vehicle
• 72% sales increase in the past year
• Accounts for 38% of total Wrangler sales

But what makes the plug-in hybrid Wrangler such an appealing choice? Probably not its electric-only range of 21 miles, which is among the lowest available.

It could be that Jeep fans yearned for a little high-tech to go with the Wrangler’s traditional ways, and the 4xe provides just what they were looking for. From its exterior highlights—with cool blue details and prominent power outlet—to its advanced technology—like regenerative braking and quick charging—this new Wrangler takes the nameplate to new territory.

And that’s not all. The Wrangler 4xe gets 49MPGe and can travel 370 miles between fill-ups. When you’re on an adventure, that’s good to know. And the E-Selec feature lets you choose between hybrid, electric, and e-save modes for maximum efficiency.

With an startingMSRP of $54,735, the Jeep Wrangler 4xe isn’t cheap. And while it’s eligible for a $7,500 federal tax credit, that’s still a hefty premium over a gas-powered $35,195 Wrangler Sport. Apparently, the 4xe is just too appealing to pass up.

Compared to other plug-in hybrids—like the Toyota Prius Prime or Kia Sorento PHEV—the 4xe has a sense of adventure and fun. While the Toyota and Kia have superb engineering and better electric range, the Jeep has burly equipment like Dana 44 axles and 10 inches of ground clearance. And with its seven-slat grille and off-road tires, it’s a sight to see.

Overall Jeep Wrangler numbers are down

While the Wrangler 4xe flies off the lot, other trims are experiencing dwindling sales. Overall, first quarter 2023 Wrangler sales are down 17% compared to the previous year.

Why is that? One can’t say for sure, but it could point to changing tastes. With issues like global warming and carbon emissions taking center stage, buyers might want an SUV that’s efficient and clean. Or, with the Wrangler using the same general layout for so long, the 4xe’s PHEV powertrain could stir excitement. However you look at it, this electrified Jeep has high-tech appeal and robust capability that’s hard to pass up.

The Wrangler 4xe is the nameplate’s first foray into PHEV vehicles. And while, in some cases, that means a boring vehicle that sips fuel, the 4xe’s anything but. Even though it has an electric range of 21 miles, this advanced Jeep has a mix of fun and technology, making it a hit with consumers. It’s an exciting direction for the Wrangler.