2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe: The desert-running PHEV

The Wrangler 4xe is a plug-in hybrid off-roader.

My steed here is the trusty Rubicon 4xe, with all the ground clearance, approach angle and locking differentials as a standard Rubi.

A 2.0-liter turbo I4 engine is paired with two electric motors and a 17-kWh battery to produce a total power output of 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. 

The Jeep's total EV range is 21 miles and it can be charged in 2 hours from a Level 2 charger.

There are some cool pages in the Jeep's Uconnect infotainment system that helps drivers keep track of hybrid usage.

You can drive the 4xe in pure EV, hybrid or eSave mode.

The Rubicon 4xe can tow 3,500 pounds, but I had to remove the spare tire to get my trailer hitched up.

Total trailer weight here is 2,500 pounds or so. The 4xe pulled cleanly up a 8% grade hill and accelerated just fine to 55 mph on the highway. 

Jeep has plans to install Level 2 chargers on 56 off-road trails in the next year or so. 

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 4xe starts at an even $55,000 including $1,495 for destination. That's a staggering $10,100 premium over a standard Rubicon.