Following a long teaser campaign, the new 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee is here. Specifically, we’re looking at the two-row model as the three-row Grand Cherokee L was unveiled earlier this year. The biggest difference between the two can be found underneath the hood where the smaller SUV gets a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The Grand Cherokee 4xe joins other PHEVs from Jeep, such as the Wrangler 4xe sold in the United States where the Gladiator 4xe pickup is due to arrive shortly. Over in Europe, the smaller Renegade and Compass crossovers are both offered with a combustion engine working together with an electric motor. The 4xe offerings could expand to include the Grand Cherokee L as well as the larger Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer flagship SUVs.
Much like the rumors have indicated in the build-up to the Grand Cherokee’s world premiere today, the 4xe does indeed get the same electrified setup as the aforementioned Wrangler 4xe. It combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine with a pair of electric motors for a total output of 375 hp (280 kW) and 470 lb-ft (637 Nm).
Jeep is targeting 25 miles (40 kilometers) of range in EV mode, while as a PHEV, the SUV should be able to cover distances of more than 440 miles (708 km). The estimated fuel economy of 57 MPGe is pretty good for such a large and heavy vehicle equipped with a 17-kWh battery pack. Interestingly, all components and high-voltage electronic systems are sealed and waterproof, prompting Jeep to add “Trail Rated” badges to signal the vehicle’s off-road capabilities.
The 4xe model comes with selectable operating modes (E Selec), giving drivers the possibility to pick between Hybrid, Electric, and eSave modes. Hybrid combines the torque of the electric drive with that of the combustion engine for the best balance in terms of efficiency and power. Electric shuts off the gas engine, which is reactivated automatically if the battery is running low or the driver presses hard on the gas pedal.
As for the eSave mode, it prioritizes the use of the combustion engine to save the battery’s energy for later use. This mode itself features Battery Save and Battery Charge modes, which can be turned on through the Uconnect infotainment system.
It’s worth noting the 4xe comes in the Trailhawk flavor, which is the most off-road-focused Grand Cherokee of the bunch. It boasts the Quadra Drive II all-wheel drive system with a two-speed gearbox and 2.72:1 reduced gear ratio and benefits from an electronic limited-slip rear self-locking differential. It can be visually distinguished thanks to its blue tow hooks, unique 18-inch wheels with blue trim, and all-terrain tires.
Jeep plans to have the 2022 Grand Cherokee – including 4xe – on sale in North America early next year, with global markets to follow shortly thereafter.
Source: Jeep
