2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe
In the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive industry, where sustainability and performance are no longer mutually exclusive, the 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe emerges as a compelling addition to the iconic Wrangler lineup. The Willy's package gets you the off-road hardware you really need, without the stratospheric price of the Rubicon trim.
As the first-ever plug-in hybrid variant of the Wrangler, the 4xe promises to blend legendary off-road capability with a greener footprint.
In this review, we'll delve into the various aspects of this electrified off-roader, exploring its advancements, design changes, interior features, hybrid technology, and the driving experience.
What is it?
The Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe builds upon the success of the Wrangler 4xe by offering a more affordable price point without compromising its off-road capabilities. Coming in slightly cheaper than the Saraha trim, it adopts chunky all-terrain tires, the Rubicon's shocks and ride height, as well as a rear-limited slip differential.
As expected, the Willys 4xe maintains the Wrangler's iconic and instantly recognizable design. The square-shaped body, removable doors, and foldable windshield are all quintessential Wrangler features. However, this model further adds its own unique touches including unique hood and tailgate badging with black accents. These subtle changes give the 4xe a distinct look while still staying true to its Wrangler roots.
What’s in a name?
If you didn’t already know, the “Willys” name pages homage to the rich history that paved the way for the Wrangler. The Willys MB, produced by Willys-Overland Motors, was the progenitor of the Jeep lineage.
Commissioned by the U.S. military in the early 1940s, the Willys MB proved its mettle as a versatile and robust vehicle, earning the nickname "Jeep" during its service. Its simple yet effective design, coupled with exceptional off-road capability, established a legacy that endures to this day.
Hybrid technology
The hybrid technology in the 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe sets it apart from its dinosaur juice powered counterparts. Under the manually latching hood is a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor and a smallish 17kWh under rear seat battery pack, delivering a total power output of 375 hp and 470 lbs-ft of torque. All of the added hardware has mostly been hidden away, protecting it from any potential knocks during off-roading.
While it’s not a hot rod like the Rubicon 392 and its Hemi V8, this hybrid powertrain not only provides impressive performance but also offers an all-electric range of approximately 34 kilometres. Despite the added 700 lbs curb weight from the 4xe setup, I still managed to eek out a much better than expected max of 40 kilometres with careful driving and use of the max regency setting.
While electric-only mode cuts power down to 134 hp and 181 lbs-ft of torque, the Wrangler 4xe is surprisingly fun-to-drive and totally usable for daily commuting. In fact, I left it in this mode for 90 per cent of the time during my daily 90 kilometre round trip between home and the office.
The beauty of the Willys 4xe's hybrid system lies in its versatility. It offers different driving modes, including Electric, Hybrid, and eSave. In Electric mode, the vehicle operates solely on electric power, producing zero emissions and using zero fuel. This mode is perfect for short commutes or when you want to enjoy a quiet and eco-friendly drive.
Hybrid mode blends the power of the engine and the electric motor, providing optimal fuel economy and performance for both on and off-road adventures.
Lastly, eSave mode allows you to conserve battery power for later use, making it useful during longer trips or when you need to maximize fuel efficiency as you get closer to your destination.
Interior comfort and tech
Stepping inside the 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe reveals a cabin that seamlessly blends modern technology with the Wrangler's classic utilitarian design.
The interior remains true to the Jeep ethos, with a short and simple dash, durable materials and a functional layout. I particularly enjoyed the continued use of the chunky rotary knobs and hard buttons. Jeep says that interior is still designed to withstand the rigours of off-road adventures and doors-off fun while still providing comfort and convenience during daily commutes.
Yes, the drain plugs in the floor are still there for serious off-roading. However, the addition of hybrid-specific displays and hard button controls serves as a constant reminder of the electrified powertrain.
During my week with the Wrangler, I enjoyed the supportive seats and ample storage space, though the lack of a rear tonneau cover meant that things needed to be hidden out of sight under the floor or a blanket to be safer.
In terms of cabin technology, the Willys 4xe shares the standard equipment found in the rest of the Jeep line-up. Stellantis’ excellent Uconnect infotainment system takes centre stage, providing a simple-to-use interface, TomTom navigation, and a few fun off-roading easter eggs. The menu layout is still arguably one of the best in the industry. With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favourite apps on the go.
That being said, now a few years old, the 8.4-inch touchscreen feels a bit small these days, and other Stellantis infotainment systems are more snappy. This will be alleviated for the 2024 model with a much larger 12.3-inch infotainment system that is said to be up to 5 times faster.
Driving impressions
Taking the 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe off the beaten path is a new experience that redefines expectations for plug-in hybrids. The combination of electric and gasoline power provides a seamless and responsive driving feel (for a Wrangler), no matter the path you’re on.
I particularly liked that the 4xe hybrid setup allows for the option of full-time all-wheel-drive for added on-road security in rainy and other slippery conditions. Aside from the hotrod Wrangler 392, this is not offered on any other Wrangler configuration.
In pure electric mode, the 4xe offers a serene and emission-free off-roading driving experience, perfect for quiet excursions into nature. Thanks to the immediate torque delivery from the electric motor in high or low range, climbing up obstacles is done with ease.
Engaging hybrid mode unleashes the full potential of the powertrain, with the electric motor seamlessly assisting the gasoline engine to deliver even more impressive acceleration and climbing capabilities.
It would be remiss of me to not talk about the Freedom top setup in my test vehicle as well.
The split removable hard top panels offered a reasonable compromise between roof-off motoring and convenience. On the one hand, the cabin is much better insulated to noise compared to the retractable fabric Sky One-Touch Power Top. However, there is certainly some inconvenience and pre-planning required when wanting to remove and stow away the hard tops. As always, life is a constant compromise but at least we have a number of options here.
Final thoughts
The 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe is a testament to Jeep's commitment to innovation without sacrificing its core principles. As a plug-in hybrid, it not only reduces its environmental impact but also elevates the legendary Wrangler's performance capabilities.
With a perfect blend of classic design, advanced technology, and an electrified powertrain, the Wrangler Willys 4xe stands as a good balance between price and capability, and a unique offering for those interested in sustainable off-roading.
Whether you're an avid off-road enthusiast or someone seeking a capable and eco-friendly daily driver with a distinctive look, the Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe is a compelling choice that sets a new standard for electrified adventure vehicles.
