Jeep introduced the new Grand Cherokee in the United States at the end of September 2021 when the midsize SUV was presented with a plug-in hybrid powertrain as well. Fast forward to mid-February, the revamped model celebrated its premiere in Europe where it will be sold exclusively with the PHEV setup. Come April, the 4xe version will head back to the US to attend the annual Easter Jeep Safari.
The 56th edition will serve as the venue for the premiere of a new concept based on the Grand Cherokee 4xe. Jeep uses some big words to describe the electrified SUV: “It will certainly conquer even the most tumultuous terrain along the back-country trails of Moab and further highlight the Jeep brand’s vision of accomplishing Zero Emission Freedom.”
Details are shrouded in mystery for the time being, but if previous projects presented in Moab, Utah are any indication, the Grand Cherokee 4xe should have an assortment of body upgrades. Custom wheels are likely in order, along with interior tweaks to further separate it from the road-going SUV.
We wouldn’t bet our money in regards to powertrain upgrades as the PHEV setup will probably be carried over from the production model. As a refresher, the first-ever electrified Grand Cherokee uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine working together with two electric motors. The setup is good for an ample 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet (637 Newton-meters) of torque.
Jeep has fitted the PHEV model with a 17-kWh battery with enough juice for a purely electric range of 25 miles (40 kilometers) for the version sold in the United States. Since Europe uses the more optimistic WLTP test cycle, the model sold on the Old Continent has a slightly longer range of 32 miles (51 kilometers).
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe concept will be joined at the Easter Jeep Safari on April 9-17 by a customized Gladiator midsize pickup truck.
Source: Jeep
