The Jeep Wrangler IV Unlimited (JL) Rubicon 2.0L 4xe, introduced in September 2023 as part of the JL facelift, represents a significant step in the evolution of the iconic Wrangler. This variant combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine with a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) system, delivering 380 horsepower and offering a substantial all-electric range. Positioned as a premium offering within the JL lineup, the Rubicon 4xe caters to drivers seeking both legendary off-road capability and improved fuel efficiency. It builds upon the already highly capable Rubicon trim, adding the benefits of electric propulsion.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Wrangler |
| Generation | Wrangler IV Unlimited (JL, facelift 2023) |
| Type | Rubicon 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) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 94 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Maximum speed | 156 km/h (96.93 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d Final |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.1 kg/Hp, 162.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.4 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) | 45 km (27.96 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 23.9 kWh/100 km (38.46 kWh/100 mi, 88 MPGe, 4.2 km/kWh, 2.6 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 | 2334 kg (5145.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2903 kg (6400.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 569 kg (1254.43 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 | 1848-1901 mm (72.76 – 74.84 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3008 mm (118.43 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 252 mm (9.92 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 36° |
| Departure angle | 31.4° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 20.8° |
| 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
At the heart of the Rubicon 4xe lies a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine, internally designated as the GME T4. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a single twin-scroll turbocharger to produce 272 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The engine is paired with a 145-horsepower electric motor, integrated between the engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission. The electric motor draws power from a 17.3 kWh lithium-ion battery pack positioned under the rear seats and floor, minimizing impact on cargo space. The combined system output reaches 380 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission is specifically calibrated for the hybrid powertrain, offering smooth shifts and optimized gear ratios for both on-road and off-road driving. The 4xe system allows for three distinct modes of operation: Hybrid, Electric, and eSave. Hybrid mode blends power from both the engine and motor, Electric mode utilizes only the electric motor for zero-emission driving, and eSave mode prioritizes engine power to preserve battery charge for later use.
Driving Characteristics
The Rubicon 4xe delivers a unique driving experience. In Hybrid mode, the instant torque from the electric motor complements the gasoline engine, providing brisk acceleration. The electric motor fills in gaps in the engine’s torque curve, resulting in a responsive and refined feel. In Electric mode, the 4xe can travel up to 45 kilometers (28 miles) on a full charge, making it suitable for daily commutes and urban driving. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, providing smooth and timely gear changes. Compared to the 3.6-liter V6 Wrangler, the 2.0L 4xe offers comparable overall performance with the added benefit of electric assistance. While not as raw and visceral as some of the higher-horsepower Wrangler variants, the 4xe provides a balanced blend of power, efficiency, and capability. The added weight of the battery pack is noticeable, but the low center of gravity improves handling and stability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Rubicon 4xe comes standard with a comprehensive suite of features, including the Wrangler’s renowned off-road hardware: heavy-duty Dana 44 axles, a Rock-Trac 4×4 system with a 4:1 low-range gear ratio, electronic sway bar disconnect, and 33-inch all-terrain tires. Inside, the Rubicon 4xe features premium cloth upholstery, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features. Optional extras include a larger 8.4-inch touchscreen, a premium Alpine audio system, leather upholstery, heated front seats and steering wheel, and a forward-facing camera for enhanced off-road visibility.
Chassis & Braking
The Rubicon 4xe retains the Wrangler’s robust body-on-frame construction, providing exceptional durability and off-road prowess. The suspension system consists of a five-link solid front axle and a multi-link solid rear axle. Heavy-duty shocks and stabilizer bars are standard equipment. The braking system features ventilated discs at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control system is specifically tuned for off-road driving, allowing for a degree of wheel slip while maintaining control. The Rubicon 4xe’s high ground clearance (9.92 inches) and impressive approach, departure, and breakover angles (36°, 31.4°, and 20.8° respectively) enable it to tackle challenging terrain with ease.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe has been well-received by critics and consumers alike. It’s praised for its combination of off-road capability, fuel efficiency, and electric driving range. Compared to the standard gasoline-powered Wrangler, the 4xe offers significantly improved fuel economy, particularly in urban driving. While the 4xe is more expensive than the base Wrangler, the added features and benefits justify the price premium for many buyers. Compared to other plug-in hybrid SUVs, the Wrangler 4xe stands out for its unique off-road focus and iconic design. Some critics have noted the added weight of the battery pack and the limited all-electric range compared to some other PHEVs, but these are generally considered minor drawbacks.
Legacy
The Rubicon 4xe represents a pivotal moment in the Wrangler’s history, marking its transition into the era of electrification. The powertrain is expected to be reliable, leveraging proven technology from both the 2.0-liter engine and the electric motor system. As a relatively new model, long-term reliability data is still emerging, but early reports are positive. The 4xe is likely to hold its value well in the used car market, appealing to buyers seeking a unique and capable plug-in hybrid SUV. It sets the stage for future electrified Jeep models and demonstrates the brand’s commitment to sustainability without compromising its legendary off-road heritage.
