The Jeep Wrangler IV Unlimited (JL) Sahara 2.0L 4xe, introduced in September 2023 as part of the JL facelift, represents a significant step in the Wrangler’s evolution, blending its legendary off-road capability with plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) technology. This variant occupies a mid-to-premium position within the JL lineup, offering a balance of fuel efficiency, performance, and refinement. The 4xe designation signifies Jeep’s commitment to electrification, providing a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline-powered Wranglers. It builds upon the established Wrangler platform (the 1HX0/A3 architecture) while introducing a sophisticated powertrain designed to reduce emissions and enhance the driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Wrangler |
| Generation | Wrangler IV Unlimited (JL, facelift 2023) |
| Type | Sahara 2.0L (380 Hp) 4xe Plug-in Hybrid 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Off-road vehicle |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 3.5 l/100 km (67.2 US mpg, 80.7 UK mpg, 28.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 79 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 177 km/h (109.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d Final |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 167.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 176 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 17.3 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 44 km (27.34 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 22.1 kWh/100 km (35.57 kWh/100 mi, 95 MPGe, 4.5 km/kWh, 2.8 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 145 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 245 Nm (180.7 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 380 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Internal combustion engine power | 272 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 136.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 3000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.73 l (5 US qt | 4.16 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 11.5 l (12.15 US qt | 10.12 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2273 kg (5011.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2812 kg (6199.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 539 kg (1188.29 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 548 l (19.35 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1059 l (37.4 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l (17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1587 kg (3498.74 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4882 mm (192.2 in.) |
| Width | 1894 mm (74.57 in.) |
| Height | 1828-1881 mm (71.97 – 74.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3008 mm (118.43 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 242 mm (9.53 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 35.4° |
| Departure angle | 30.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20° |
| Wading depth | 760 mm (29.92 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor permanently drive the rear wheels of the vehicle, capable of running in full electric or mixed mode, and if necessary through the electrically or mechanically controlled clutch, the front wheels are driven. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Wrangler Sahara 4xe is a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine (code GSE) paired with two electric motors and a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The engine produces 272 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, while the electric motors contribute an additional 145 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a combined system output of 380 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger for enhanced efficiency and responsiveness. The automatic transmission is an 8-speed unit, specifically tuned to work seamlessly with the electric motors and provide smooth power delivery. The battery pack is positioned under the rear seats and floor, preserving ground clearance and interior space. The 4xe system allows for multiple drive modes, including electric-only, hybrid, and eSave, which prioritizes engine power and recharges the battery while driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0L 4xe powertrain delivers a unique driving experience compared to other Wrangler trims. The instant torque from the electric motors provides brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 6.1 seconds. In electric mode, the Wrangler operates silently and smoothly, ideal for urban driving and off-road trails where noise is a concern. The hybrid mode seamlessly blends power from the engine and electric motors, offering a balance of performance and efficiency. While the 4xe is heavier than its gasoline-only counterparts due to the battery pack, the added torque helps mitigate any noticeable performance deficit. The 8-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and timely gear changes, enhancing the overall driving experience. Compared to the 3.6L V6, the 4xe offers quicker acceleration and better fuel economy, while the manual transmission versions of the 2.0L turbo offer a more engaging, but less refined, driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sahara trim level, even before the 4xe addition, is known for its blend of comfort and capability. Standard features on the 2023 Wrangler Sahara 4xe include premium cloth upholstery, a 1300-watt premium Alpine audio system, an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection. Optional extras include leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a forward-facing camera, and a winch-capable steel front bumper. The 4xe specific features include unique blue accents on the exterior and interior, as well as a dedicated display showing energy flow and battery status.
Chassis & Braking
The Wrangler Sahara 4xe retains the robust chassis and suspension setup of the standard JL Wrangler. It features a five-link suspension with coil springs, providing excellent articulation and off-road capability. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The electronic stability control system is tuned to work in conjunction with the 4xe powertrain, providing enhanced control and stability in various driving conditions. The Wrangler’s solid axles and robust transfer case contribute to its legendary off-road prowess, allowing it to tackle challenging terrain with ease.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Wrangler 4xe has been well-received by critics and consumers alike, praised for its innovative powertrain and commitment to sustainability. It offers a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline-powered Wranglers, providing improved fuel economy and reduced emissions without sacrificing off-road capability. Compared to the 3.6L V6 Wrangler, the 4xe delivers better acceleration and fuel efficiency, although it comes at a higher price point. The 4xe also offers a quieter and more refined driving experience, particularly in electric mode. Its fuel economy of 3.5 l/100km (67.2 US mpg) is significantly better than other Wrangler trims.
Legacy
The Wrangler 4xe represents a pivotal moment in the Wrangler’s history, marking its transition into the era of electrification. The 2.0L turbocharged engine and 8-speed automatic transmission have proven to be reliable and durable, and the addition of the electric powertrain has further enhanced its versatility and appeal. As the used car market matures, the 4xe is expected to hold its value well, particularly among environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking a unique and capable off-road vehicle. The 4xe’s success has paved the way for further electrification of the Jeep lineup, solidifying Jeep’s commitment to a sustainable future.
