American Jeep created a new twist to its Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid range with the classic-inspired Willys 4xe.
The 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe joins the Rubicon 4xe, High Altitude 4xe and Sahara 4xe, catering to customers looking for “a great combination of capability and electrification, with a classic style”.
Jeep’s electrification of its iconic Wrangler line-up aligns with the goal 70% of total revenue be electrified by 2025.
But while Jeep Australia will introduce its first plug-in hybrid next year with Grand Cherokee 4xethe company has not announced plans to bring any members of the Wrangler 4xe family to Australia.
The Willys 4xe, inspired by 1940s military vehicles, features a classic black grille, 17-inch black painted alloy wheels shod with LT255/75R17C all-terrain tires and ‘Willys’ decals adorned with signature Electric Blue 4xe color.
Prices will start at US$53,995 (about AU$84,000), which means a new entry-level price for the Wrangler 4xe range.
The Willys 4xe boasts a ‘near-silent’ off-road experience powered by Jeep’s Select-Trac all-wheel drive system, 25.7cm lifts and 76cm water resistance.
The Willys 4xe also includes a Trac-Lok rear limited-slip differential, heavy-duty Dana 44 axles and a low-range 2.72:1 gear ratio.
The powertrain combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with an eTorque engine generator to replace the traditional alternator, with a second e-motor generator mounted in front of the transmission for pure operation. electricity and 17kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery.
The latter is placed under the second row of seats to remain protected from the elements.
Total system output is 280kW of power and 637Nm of torque, with a claimed fuel economy of 4.8L/100km.
Although Jeep Australia chief executive Kevin Flynn is ‘delighted’ about the growing appetite for electric vehicles in the Australian market, the Willys 4xe remains another Wrangler variant that will not be offered in Australia. this.
However, the brand will introduce an all-electric all-terrain vehicle with the Recon, though not likely until 2025.
Electric Recon will also be joined by Wagoneer WILL although underpinned by the same STLA Large platform, it has a significantly different, premium styling.
THAN: Everything Jeep Wrangler
