It’s hard to think of a brand that embraces tradition more than Jeep. But that doesn’t mean they’re stuck in the past. Indeed, Jeep is in the process of electrifying every one of their models; the latest being this Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. So, let’s see what the 4xe adds to an iconic 4×4!

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is electric, but not all electric. It’s a plug-in hybrid or PHEV. A very sensible approach to electrification in our view, rather than going all-in and forcing faithful followers to adapt their lifestyle to a revolutionary business strategy.  

Moreover, most of the powertrain specs of this 5-passenger standard wheelbase Grand Cherokee have commonality with the Wrangler 4xe we tested last year. Except the 17.3-kWh battery. It ekes out a little more EV range; 25-miles compared to the Wrangler’s 22.   

The 2.0-liter I4 turbo engine, twin electric motors, and 8-speed automatic work together to deliver the same 375-horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque; 4-wheel-drive is of course standard.

So, it’s no Trackhawk, but that 470 lb-ft. of torque is 80 more than the GC’s optional V8, so off to our Mason Dixon test track to try it out.

We saved some battery power, and the 4xe put it to good use. There is a nice surge of spirit at launch that had us hitting 60 in just 5.3-seconds.

About halfway down the track, you can feel the electric influence lessen, and the turbo engine really takes over, delivering great mid-range power. Shifts from the automatic are very smooth and quick, with our best ¼-mile pass taking 13.9-seconds at 102 miles-per-hour. Once the battery drains, there’s noticeably less umph off the line.

True, the 4xe can’t match the V8’s 7,200-lbs. tow rating, but 6,000-lbs. is still quite good for a midsize utility.

As in the Wrangler, all battery and EV hardware is packaged well out of harm’s way, so there’s no loss of off-road capability. 

Our Overland tester, however, had more of a pampered lifestyle in mind. It came equipped with a panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather seats with both front and rear heat, and heated steering wheel. 

A luxury tech group adds wireless charging, digital rearview mirror, 4 zone climate, rear sunshades, and massaging seats.  

While an advanced protech group delivers active driving assist, night vision, and navigation maps in the driver display.  

And no matter how many times you see it, the available interactive front passenger display looks impressive, and gives the person riding shotgun something to amuse them. 

Now, unlike the Wrangler 4xe, where driving around with no engine noise seemed to amplify other sounds and reinforce its rough edges; here in the Grand Cherokee 4xe, the powertrain silence seems to fit right in with its more refined nature.  

Transitions of power between battery and gasoline engine are very smooth, as is ride quality.  

Given its size, the 4xe Grand Cherokee felt solid and willing through our handling course. Steering was light, but accurate, and there was only moderate body roll.  

The 4xe felt solid and stable in panic braking runs too, but also very heavy. Stops from 60 stretched out to a longish 129-feet.  

There are indicators of the 4xe’s plug-in status, an additional access door in the driver’s side front fender for the charger port and small amounts of blue trim. But otherwise, you’d be hard pressed to tell it’s different from just about every other 5th gen Grand Cherokee.   

18-inch wheels are standard. A black finished roof is optional. Active grille shutters and front fender aero treatments are in place to maximize fuel efficiency.  

Government Fuel Economy Ratings are 56 Combined MPGe for gas and electric, 23-Combined strictly on the gasoline engine. We averaged 22 miles-per-gallon of Regular in Hybrid mode with no charging.   

So, the 4xe rates a very good Energy Impact Score, using just 6.0-barrels of oil yearly, with 2.9-tons of CO2 emissions.  

The 4xe is available in most of the Grand Cherokee’s trim levels including Trailhawk, starting with Limited at $61,660, and working up to Summit Reserve for a lofty $78,870. Our Overland tester resides in the still high middle-ground at $69,675. Right now the 4xe treatment is not available on the 3-Row Grand Cherokee L.

Yes, those prices are steep, but unfortunately aren’t out of line for a luxury-minded off-roader these days. And the 5th generation Grand Cherokee has certainly attained a new level of luxury, sophistication, technology, and practicality. Now, this 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe adds a new level of efficiency, making it an even smarter midsize SUV choice.

This thing is quick, like EV quick, taking off much faster than you’re expecting.