Jeep’s 2024 Wrangler 4xe Willys combines plug-in hybrid efficiency with rugged off-road capability. The Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys 2024 is a unique trim that brings together the brand’s iconic trail-ready DNA with modern electrification. You get the best of both worlds: silent electric crawling and powerful gas backup when you need it most.
This isn’t just another hybrid SUV. It’s a Wrangler first, meaning it can tackle rocks, mud, and sand without breaking a sweat. The Willys trim adds specific off-road hardware that makes it even more capable than the standard 4xe models. If you want a vehicle that saves fuel on your commute but still dominates on the trail, this is it.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about this electrified off-roader. We’ll cover performance, features, pricing, and how it compares to other Wrangler trims. By the end, you’ll know if the 2024 Willys 4xe is the right Jeep for you.
Jeep Wrangler 4Xe Willys 2024 Overview
The 2024 model year brings several updates to the Wrangler lineup, and the Willys 4xe is no exception. It sits as a mid-range trim, offering more capability than the base Sport but without the extreme luxury of the High Altitude or Rubicon. Think of it as the sweet spot for weekend warriors who also drive daily.
Under the hood, you get the familiar 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors. Total system output is 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. That’s plenty of grunt for highway merging and crawling over obstacles.
The hybrid system allows for up to 21 miles of all-electric range. For most commutes, you can run on pure electricity, saving gas and reducing emissions. When the battery depletes, the gas engine kicks in seamlessly, giving you a total driving range of over 370 miles.
Key Specifications
- Engine: 2.0L Turbo I4 + Dual Electric Motors
- Total Horsepower: 375 hp
- Total Torque: 470 lb-ft
- Electric Range: 21 miles (estimated)
- Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
- Drivetrain: 4×4 with Selec-Trac
- Ground Clearance: 10.8 inches
- Approach Angle: 44.4 degrees
- Departure Angle: 35.7 degrees
What Makes The Willys Trim Special
The Willys package is named after the original military Jeeps. It adds specific off-road upgrades that make a real difference on the trail. You get heavy-duty axles, a limited-slip rear differential, and all-terrain tires. There’s also a unique suspension tune that improves articulation.
Visually, the Willys stands out with its black grille, black badges, and unique 17-inch wheels. You also get rock rails and tow hooks as standard. It’s a purposeful look that says “I’m ready for adventure” without being overly flashy.
One important note: the Willys 4xe does not include the front sway-bar disconnect or locking differentials found on the Rubicon. However, for most off-road situations, the Willys is more than capable. The limited-slip rear diff provides excellent traction in loose conditions.
Off-Road Performance And Capability
When you take the Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys 2024 off-road, the hybrid system becomes a secret weapon. The instant torque from the electric motors allows for precise throttle control at low speeds. You can crawl over rocks without revving the engine, which reduces wheel spin and improves control.
The Selec-Trac full-time 4×4 system is standard on the 4xe models. It gives you the ability to drive in 4WD Auto mode on pavement, then switch to 4WD High or Low for serious terrain. The system is smooth and responsive, making it easy for beginners to handle tough trails.
Electric Mode Off-Roading
One of the coolest features is the ability to run in all-electric mode off-road. You can creep through sensitive areas without disturbing wildlife or other trail users. The silence is almost eerie, but it gives you a new level of connection with the environment.
In Electric mode, the Wrangler still has plenty of torque for moderate trails. You can climb hills and navigate rocky sections without the gas engine ever turning on. When you need more power, simply press the accelerator harder, and the gas engine will engage automatically.
Trail Rating And Clearance
The Willys 4xe has impressive clearance numbers. With 10.8 inches of ground clearance, you can clear most rocks and logs. The approach and departure angles are also excellent, meaning you can climb steep inclines without scraping the bumper.
Here’s a quick comparison of the Willys vs Rubicon off-road specs:
- Willys: 10.8″ ground clearance, 44.4° approach, 35.7° departure
- Rubicon: 12.9″ ground clearance, 47.4° approach, 40.4° departure
While the Rubicon has better numbers, the Willys is still highly capable. For most recreational off-roading, you won’t miss the extra inch or two. The Willys can handle everything from forest service roads to moderate rock crawling.
Interior And Technology Features
Step inside the 2024 Willys 4xe, and you’ll find a cabin that balances ruggedness with modern comfort. The seats are cloth with the Willys logo embroidered on the front headrests. They are comfortable for long drives and provide good lateral support when the trail gets bumpy.
The dashboard features a 12.3-inch touchscreen with the latest Uconnect 5 system. This is a big upgrade over previous years. The screen is crisp, responsive, and easy to use even with gloves on. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, so you can leave your cables at home.
Standard Tech Features
- 12.3-inch touchscreen display
- Uconnect 5 with navigation
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth streaming
- USB-C ports (front and rear)
- 6-speaker audio system
- SiriusXM satellite radio
Available Upgrades
You can add several option packages to the Willys 4xe. The Technology Group includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and automatic high beams. The Safety Group adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection.
For those who want more audio power, the Alpine premium sound system is available. It includes a subwoofer and upgraded speakers that fill the cabin with clear sound, even with the top down. The premium soft top is also an option, offering better insulation and easier operation.
Fuel Economy And Charging
The hybrid system is the main reason many buyers choose the 4xe. With the battery fully charged, you can drive up to 21 miles on electricity alone. For short commutes, this means you might only visit the gas station once a month. The EPA estimates combined fuel economy at 49 MPGe when using both gas and electric power.
When the battery is depleted, the Wrangler operates as a conventional hybrid. In this mode, it gets around 20 mpg combined. That’s not great, but it’s typical for a boxy, heavy 4×4. The key is to charge regularly to maximize efficiency.
Charging Options
Charging the 4xe is straightforward. You can use a standard 110-volt household outlet, which will fully charge the battery in about 12 hours. For faster charging, a Level 2 240-volt charger cuts that time to around 2.5 hours. Jeep includes a charging cable with the vehicle.
Many owners install a Level 2 charger at home for overnight charging. Public charging stations are also an option, but the 4xe’s battery is small enough that you don’t need to rely on them. Just plug in at home, and you’ll start each day with a full battery.
Pricing And Trims Comparison
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys starts at around $56,000. That’s a significant jump from the base Sport 4xe, which starts at about $53,000. However, the Willys adds over $3,000 worth of off-road equipment and styling upgrades.
Here’s how the 4xe trims compare in price:
- Sport 4xe: $53,000
- Willys 4xe: $56,000
- Sahara 4xe: $58,000
- Rubicon 4xe: $62,000
- High Altitude 4xe: $64,000
The Willys offers the best value for buyers who want genuine off-road capability without paying Rubicon prices. You get the heavy-duty axles, limited-slip diff, and all-terrain tires that make a real difference on the trail. The Sahara is more comfort-oriented, while the Rubicon is for hardcore off-roaders.
Federal Tax Credit
One important factor is the federal tax credit for plug-in hybrids. The 4xe may qualify for up to $3,750 in tax credits, depending on your tax situation. This can significantly reduce the effective purchase price. Check with your tax advisor to see if you qualify.
Some states also offer additional incentives. For example, California provides rebates for plug-in hybrids. These incentives can make the 4xe more affordable than a comparable gas-only Wrangler. Be sure to research incentives in your area.
Pros And Cons Of The Willys 4Xe
Before you make a decision, consider the strengths and weaknesses of this vehicle. No car is perfect, and the Willys 4xe has some trade-offs you should know about.
Pros
- Excellent off-road capability for most trails
- 21 miles of electric range for daily commutes
- Instant torque from electric motors improves crawling
- Unique Willys styling with black accents
- Modern tech with large touchscreen
- Federal tax credit available
Cons
- Lower ground clearance than Rubicon
- No front sway-bar disconnect or lockers
- Gas-only fuel economy is mediocre
- Higher price than comparable gas models
- Charging infrastructure still limited in some areas
- Rear seat space is tight for tall passengers
Overall, the pros outweigh the cons for most buyers. If you don’t need the extreme capability of the Rubicon, the Willys is a smart choice. You get genuine off-road performance with the benefits of electrification.
How The Willys 4Xe Compares To Rivals
The plug-in hybrid off-road segment is small, but there are a few competitors worth considering. The Ford Bronco offers similar capability but no hybrid option yet. The Toyota 4Runner is reliable but ancient in terms of technology. The Land Rover Defender P400e is more luxurious but much more expensive.
Compared to the Bronco, the Wrangler 4xe has the advantage of electric-only driving. The Bronco’s 2.7L V6 is powerful but thirsty. The Wrangler also has a removable top and doors, which the Bronco can’t match in terms of open-air experience.
The 4Runner is a solid choice for reliability, but it lacks modern tech and fuel economy. The Wrangler 4xe is more efficient and more fun to drive. The Defender is in a different price class, starting around $60,000 for the hybrid version.
Maintenance And Ownership Costs
Owning a plug-in hybrid comes with some unique maintenance considerations. The battery pack is covered by an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty. The gas engine and electric motors are also well-protected. Routine maintenance includes oil changes every 10,000 miles and tire rotations.
One thing to note: the 4xe’s battery pack reduces cargo space slightly. The floor is raised, so you lose about 2 cubic feet of storage. For most people, this isn’t a big deal, but if you frequently carry tall items, it’s worth knowing.
Insurance costs are similar to other Wrangler models. The 4xe’s higher purchase price means slightly higher premiums, but not dramatically so. Overall, ownership costs are reasonable for a vehicle in this class.
Final Thoughts On The Willys 4Xe
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys is a compelling package for anyone who wants to go off-road without guzzling gas. It combines the legendary capability of the Wrangler with the efficiency of a plug-in hybrid. The Willys trim adds just the right amount of off-road hardware for most adventures.
If you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle your daily commute on electricity and then tackle a rocky trail on the weekend, this is it. The instant torque from the electric motors makes off-roading easier and more enjoyable. The modern tech keeps you connected and entertained.
Sure, the Rubicon has more capability, but most people never use it. The Willys is the Goldilocks trim: not too basic, not too extreme. It’s just right for the majority of off-road enthusiasts. Plus, the tax credit helps offset the higher purchase price.
Before you buy, test drive one to see if the electric range works for your commute. If it does, you’ll save money on gas and reduce your environmental impact. The Jeep Wrangler 4xe Willys 2024 is a smart choice for the modern adventurer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does The 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4Xe Willys Cost?
The starting price is around $56,000. With options and destination charges, you can expect to pay between $57,000 and $62,000. The federal tax credit can reduce this by up to $3,750.
What Is The Electric Range Of The 2024 Wrangler 4Xe?
The EPA estimates 21 miles of all-electric range. In real-world driving, you can expect 18-22 miles depending on conditions. Cold weather and highway speeds will reduce the range.
Can The Wrangler 4Xe Willys Go Off-road In Electric Mode?
Yes, absolutely. The electric motors provide plenty of torque for moderate off-roading. You can crawl over rocks and climb hills in pure electric mode. The gas engine only kicks in when you need maximum power.
Is The Willys 4Xe Better Than The Rubicon 4Xe?
It depends on your needs. The Willys is more affordable and still very capable. The Rubicon has better ground clearance, locking differentials, and a sway-bar disconnect. If you do extreme rock crawling, get the Rubicon. For most other off-roading, the Willys is sufficient.
How Long Does It Take To Charge The 2024 Wrangler 4Xe?
Using a standard 110-volt outlet, it takes about 12 hours for a full charge. With a 240-volt Level 2 charger, it takes approximately 2.5 hours. Jeep includes a charging cable with the vehicle.