Jeep USA has created a new entry point to its Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid range with the vintage-inspired Willys 4xe.
The 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe joins the Rubicon 4xe, High Altitude 4xe, and Sahara 4xe, catering to customers searching for “the ultimate combination of capability and electrification, with a vintage twist”.
Jeep’s electrification of its iconic Wrangler range aligns with its goal for 70 per cent of all sales to be electrified by 2025.
But while Jeep Australia will introduce its first plug-in hybrid next year with the Grand Cherokee 4xe, the company hasn’t announced plans to bring any members of the Wrangler 4xe family to Australia.
The Willys 4xe, inspired by the 1940s military vehicle, features a classic black grille, 17-inch black-painted alloy wheels with LT255/75R17C mud-terrain tires and ‘Willys’ decals trimmed in the signature 4xe Electric Blue.
Prices will start at US$53,995 (approximately $A$84,000), meaning a new entry price for the Wrangler 4xe range.
The Willys 4xe boasts a ‘virtually silent’ off-road experience powered by Jeep’s Select-Trac full-time 4WD system a 25.7cm factory lift that affords 76cm of water fording.
The Willys 4xe also includes a Trac-Lok rear limited-slip differential, heavy-duty Dana 44 axles, and a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio.
The powertrain combines a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine with an eTorque motor generator to replace the traditional alternator, a second e-motor generator mounted at the front of the transmission for pure electric operation, and a 17kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt battery.
The latter is housed under the second-row seat to remain protected from the elements.
Total system outputs are 280kW of power and 637Nm of torque, with claimed fuel economy of 4.8L/100km.
Although Jeep Australia managing director Kevin Flynn is ‘excited’ about the growing appetite for EVs in the Australian market, the Willys 4xe is yet another Wrangler variant that won’t be offered here.
The brand will, however, introduce a full-electric off-roader with the Recon, though it’s unlikely to reach our shores until 2025.
The electric Recon will also be joined by the Wagoneer S which, though underpinned by the same STLA Large platform, features dramatically different, more premium styling.
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