2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys is the affordable PHEV we want

Around two years ago, Jeep revealed the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Not only does it benefit from electrification, but the Wrangler 4xe is also one of the most powerful models thanks to a combined system output of 375 PS and 637 Nm of torque.

More importantly, the PHEV Wrangler still comes with the usual suite of 4x4 features like front and rear Dana 44 axles, locking differentials, a full-time 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case, crawler gears, and sway bars that can be electronically disconnected for improved wheel articulation.

But what if you want your Wrangler 4xe to look even more capable to go off the beaten path? Jeep has just revealed its latest (and most affordable) version of the electrified 4x4 in the form of the Wrangler 4xe Willys. With a starting price of USD 53,995 (or around PHP 3.097 million), the Wrangler 4xe Willys still comes with plenty of equipment and features.

Starting with its heritage-inspired exterior, this particular Wrangler comes with the signature “Willys” decal which can be seen on the hood. It also gets an “Electric 4-Wheel Drive” decal on the rear swing gate which reminds everyone that this is indeed a 4xe plug-in hybrid. Despite being an entry-level model, this Willys 4xe gets LED headlights, 17-inch black alloy wheels wrapped in 255/75 mud-terrain tires, rock rails, and an all-black grille.

When it comes to interior amenities, the Wrangler 4xe Willys is equipped with a 9-speaker Alpine audio system, all-weather floor mats, and can be fitted with the optional 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreen infotainment complete with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation. And if you want open-top motoring in the Willys 4xe, there's also the Sun and Screen Package available that adds the One-Touch Power-Top.

As mentioned earlier, this electrified Jeep comes with the brand's innovative 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four that's helped along by an electric motor and 17 kWh battery pack. It has a total system output of 375 PS with 637 Nm of torque and has a claimed 40 kilometers of pure electric range. It also has an estimated average fuel consumption of over 21 km/l which is impressive for an electrified 4x4 such as the Wrangler 4xe. Power is then sent to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission.

“Jeep Wrangler 4xe customers looking for the ultimate combination of capability and electrification, with a vintage twist, can now have it in the 2023 Jeep Wrangler Willys 4xe. The debut of the new heritage-inspired 2023 Wrangler Willys 4xe pairs 49 MPGe, 470 lb.-ft. (637 Nm) of torque with unmatched Jeep capability, a 2.72:1 4WD low range ratio, heavy-duty Dana 44 axles, and a new entry price point to the 2023 model year Wrangler 4xe lineup, which continues to be the best-selling plug-in hybrid in America,” said Jim Morrison, senior vice president and head of Jeep North America.

With more and more electrified models arriving in the Philippines, could Jeep Philippines actually bring the Wrangler 4xe to the country? Perhaps, but once it arrives here we won't be surprised if its SRP will go up beyond PHP 3.1 million.