After the launch of plug-in hybrid versions of Compass and Renegade, the legendary SUV is next in the line in FCA’s electrification play. The current generation of the iconic off-roader has been around for a couple of years and the next one will bring significant novelty in terms of powertrain. Yes, we are about to see an electrified version, which will come as the 2021 Jeep Wrangler PHEV. At this point, we know how the new version will look like, but we are still waiting for the exact specs, in terms of powertrain, battery, range etc.
Other than the powertrain, the PHEV Wrangler probably won’t have any particular difference. Of course, a couple of visual tweaks are always possible, but the overall layout will definitely remain the same. This refers to both exterior and interior designs. When it comes to the 2021 Jeep Wrangler PHEV release date, the second half of the year is the best we can say at the moment.
2021 Jeep Wrangler PHEV Powertrain
Of course, this will be the most interesting aspect of the new version. At this point, we don’t know the exact details, but most experts suggest that the 2021 Jeep Wrangler plugin hybrid will feature setup that is very similar to the one that powers Chrysler Pacifica. That would mean a system based on a V6 Pentastar engine with a max output of 260 horsepower. That doesn’t sound bad at all, though we wouldn’t be surprised if we see a slight power boost for this occasion. On the other side, some experts suggest the possibility to see a setup based on a turbo-four engine, which doesn’t sound impossible either.
Another interesting aspect would be the battery pack. The Pacifica comes with a 16-kWh battery pack, which ensures a max all-electric range of around 30 miles. Given the additional weight and poorer aerodynamics, the PHEV Wrangler will probably feature a shorter range, although there is always a possibility to see a bigger battery, maybe around 20 kWh.
2021 Jeep Wrangler PHEV Design
The new 2021 Jeep Wrangler PHEV has already been presented and when it comes to the styling, it’s very hard to find any particular difference. Of course, the legendary look is here and probably the only difference that’s easy to notice is on the left side, where you can plug the cable and charge the battery. Other than that, things are pretty much the same.
Still, there is one thing that seems quite interesting. Of course, we are talking about the battery pack. It’s still unclear where the battery will be packed. On one side, there is a possibility to see it under the floor, with a so-called skateboard layout. This would definitely be great as it wouldn’t sacrifice interior space but on the other side, this would also mean lower ground clearance and compromised off-road performances. Therefore, we may say a layout that takes a little bit of rear seats and cargo space for the battery, which would guarantee the full off-road potential of this SUV.
Interior
As we’ve just mentioned, there is a chance to see less interior space compared to gasoline models. Other than that, we don’t expect to see more significant changes. It’s important to mention that the new 2021 Jeep Wrangler PHEV will be available in four-door layout only, so you may count on two comfortable rows of seats and a pretty decent amount of cargo space.
When it comes to the dashboard and overall cabin layout, things will remain pretty much the same as on standard gasoline models. Of course, we will see a new instrument cluster and a few more controls, adapted to this kind of powertrain, but the rest of the cabin will remain the same. This means you may count on the same dashboard layout, which combines modern and classic design solutions and feels pretty durable.
Another thing that’s currently unclear is the trim level organization. It is still unknown whether the 2021 Jeep Wrangler PHEV is about to come as a separate version, or just as powertrain option that is available across the trim range.
2021 Jeep Wrangler PHEV Release Date and Price
As we already mentioned, the best we can say at this point is that the new version should come in the second half of the years. More precise details are yet to come. When it comes to the 2021 Jeep Wrangler PHEV price, it’s hard to predict the exact sum. For example, the PHEV version of Pacifica is 13.000 dollars more expensive than the base gasoline version. However, that price difference also includes loads of additional standard equipment. Therefore, the exact price largely depends on the number of additional features that will come with this version. We don’t expect such big difference, but be sure that this version will cost several thousand extra compared to the standard 4-door model, which starts around 32.000 dollars.
