The Wrangler goes hybrid
Jeep’s tough 4×4 is only going part-electric. The brand’s new line of ‘4xe’ models are all hybrids in some capacity, with Jeep promising the Wrangler 4xe is one of the most capable plug-in hybrids on the market.
Low demand is the root cause. The Wrangler is already a niche vehicle in the UK as it is, and engineering the right-hand drive version for the UK market doesn’t seem commercially viable to Jeep. There are small differences, but not enough to spoil the aesthetic. Every 4xe model has blue trimmings and, of course, a separate cap on the bonnet for the charger. Inside, the only differences you’ll spot are the trio of buttons for you to manage the powertrain and some new graphs on the very usable infotainment screen.
Of course, the Wrangler is still not the last word in general refinement. The 2.0-litre petrol engine sounds rough when it wakes up and, particularly in Rubicon spec with knobbly off-road tyres, the steering is soggy and vague on tarmac, and the suspension is bouncy. But you’re too busy smiling to notice.