Is The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe All Electric
The auto industry is changing fast, and electric SUVs are everywhere. Many drivers want greener cars, but also worry about losing power or convenience.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is getting lots of attention as a plug-in hybrid SUV. But is it really “all electric”?
Let’s break down what the 4xe offers, how it compares to fully electric models, and what buyers should know before choosing this vehicle.
What Is The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe?
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV). This means it combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor and a battery pack. The 4xe is not a pure electric vehicle (EV). Instead, it can drive on electricity alone for a limited distance, then switches to using gas.
The 4xe’s powertrain includes:
- A 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gas engine
- Two electric motors
- A 17 kWh lithium-ion battery
This combination delivers up to 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, which is impressive for an SUV in this class.
Electric Driving Range & Performance
One main question: how far can the Grand Cherokee 4xe drive using only electricity? According to Jeep, the 4xe can travel up to 25 miles on electric power alone. After the battery is used up, the gas engine takes over, allowing for long trips without worrying about charging.
Here’s a quick comparison of the 4xe vs. other electric SUVs:
| Model | Electric Range (miles) | Gas Range (miles) | Total Range (miles) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe | 25 | ~440 | ~465 |
| Ford Mustang Mach-E (EV) | 230-300 | 0 | 230-300 |
| Toyota RAV4 Prime (PHEV) | 42 | ~520 | ~562 |
The 4xe’s electric-only range is shorter than some other hybrids, and much less than full EVs. However, its total driving range is strong because the gas engine covers longer distances.
How Does The 4xe Work?
The Grand Cherokee 4xe lets drivers choose from three drive modes:
- Electric Mode – Uses battery power only, up to 25 miles.
- Hybrid Mode – Uses both gas and electric for best efficiency.
- ESave Mode – Runs mainly on gas, saving battery for later.
Switching between these modes is simple, using a button on the dash. Many owners use Electric Mode for short trips or city driving, then switch to Hybrid Mode for longer journeys.
Charging the battery takes about 2 hours with a Level 2 charger, or roughly 12 hours with a standard wall outlet. This flexibility helps drivers who do not have a home charger.
Is The 4xe All Electric?
The simple answer: No, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is not all electric. It is a plug-in hybrid. You can drive short distances on electricity, but the gas engine is always there for backup.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | Grand Cherokee 4xe | All-Electric SUV |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Engine | Yes | No |
| Electric Motor | Yes | Yes |
| Battery | 17 kWh | 60-100+ kWh |
| Range (electric) | 25 miles | 200-350 miles |
| Charging Required | Optional | Required |
A true all-electric SUV has no gas engine and relies only on its battery. The 4xe, with its hybrid system, offers both options.
Real-world Benefits And Drawbacks
Many drivers like the Grand Cherokee 4xe because:
- You can drive on electric power for daily errands.
- No range anxiety, thanks to the gas engine.
- Strong towing ability and off-road features.
- Tax credits may be available (up to $7,500 in the US).
However, there are some downsides:
- Electric range is limited compared to all-electric SUVs.
- Needs regular charging to maximize savings.
- Maintenance may be higher than pure EVs.
One non-obvious insight: If you don’t plug in often, you’ll lose much of the fuel savings. Owners who charge at home and drive short distances can get great MPG. But if you use mostly gas, it’s just a heavier, pricier SUV.
Another useful tip: Cold weather reduces the 4xe’s electric range. Many buyers do not realize that battery performance drops in winter, which can make the electric-only driving even shorter.
How The 4xe Compares To Other Jeep Models
If you’re considering the Grand Cherokee 4xe, you may wonder how it stacks up against other Jeeps. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Model | Powertrain | MPG (Combined) | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Cherokee 4xe | PHEV | ~56 MPGe | $59,865 |
| Grand Cherokee (Gas) | V6/V8 | 19-23 MPG | $43,830 |
| Wrangler 4xe | PHEV | ~49 MPGe | $54,735 |
The 4xe offers better fuel economy and emissions than pure gas models, but at a higher price. For more details, see the Jeep official website.
Who Should Buy The 4xe?
The Grand Cherokee 4xe is best for:
- People who want electric driving but not full EVs
- Drivers with short daily commutes
- Owners who can charge at home or work
- Those needing SUV size, power, and off-road ability
If you drive long distances and rarely charge, a pure gas model may be better. If you want only electric driving, consider a full EV.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe A Fully Electric Vehicle?
No, the 4xe is a plug-in hybrid. It can run on electric power for about 25 miles, but also uses a gas engine.
How Long Does It Take To Charge The 4xe’s Battery?
Charging with a Level 2 charger takes about 2 hours. Using a standard outlet takes up to 12 hours.
Does The 4xe Qualify For Tax Credits?
Yes, most buyers can get up to $7,500 federal tax credit in the US. State incentives may also apply.
Can The 4xe Go Off-road Like Other Jeeps?
Absolutely. The 4xe has Jeep’s 4×4 system and can handle rough terrain, just like other Grand Cherokee models.
What Happens If The Battery Runs Out?
The 4xe automatically switches to the gas engine. You can keep driving without stopping to charge.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is a smart step toward electric driving, but it’s not all electric. It offers flexibility, strong performance, and eco-friendly options—ideal for drivers who want the best of both worlds.
