2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe vs 2022 Volvo XC40

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge adhered closely to traditional automotive design, making it a familiar transition for those moving from internal-combustion engines to electric vehicles. From the outside, it closely resembled its gasoline counterpart, with subtle differences like a solid panel in the grill and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40 maintained Volvo's signature style with features like Thor’s Hammer daytime running lights and a floating roof illusion. Inside, the XC40 showcased Scandinavian design with an airy cabin, harmonious dash elements, and premium finishes, positioning it as a genuine luxury SUV.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe, a plug-in hybrid, retained the classic Wrangler styling, making it difficult to distinguish from its gas-powered siblings except for blue decals and a charging port. Signature elements like the exterior-mounted spare tire and removable doors remained. The interior quality was consistent across the lineup, with options for leather seats and heated features, though some expected amenities like ventilated seats were absent. The Wrangler 4xe's interior combined rugged elements with modern touches, maintaining its iconic Jeep character.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, driving two electric motors for a total of 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the XC40 to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, making it a quick compact SUV. The Recharge featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive option, enhancing energy efficiency and driving fun. Its low centre of gravity improved handling, and it offered a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge, with fast-charging capabilities. Fuel efficiency for the gasoline models was rated at 9.3-9.4 L/100 km combined.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with electric motors, producing 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and maintained its trail-rated capabilities with a Selec-trac or Rock-trac transfer case, solid axles, and impressive ground clearance. The Wrangler 4xe offered an electric-only range of 35 kilometres and modes to optimize battery use. Its electric motors provided a burst of energy from a stop, but it remained a Wrangler in terms of handling and noise levels.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions like a front trunk and ample cabin cubbies. The interior was comfortable, with supportive front seats and adequate rear seating. The XC40 provided up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe was designed to accommodate its battery pack without sacrificing much interior space. Headroom and legroom were slightly affected, but cargo capacity was reduced compared to other Wranglers. It offered 784 litres of cargo space with the seats up and 1,908 litres with them folded. The Wrangler's body style made it manageable in urban settings, and it included a home charging cable. The optional power-retracting roof added convenience for open-air driving.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with advanced tech, including Pilot Assist for highway driving and a heat pump to extend range. Its infotainment system featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen with Android Automotive, Google integration, and OTA updates. However, the range display showed a percentage rather than kilometres, which could cause range anxiety.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe ran Uconnect 4C with navigation on an 8.4-inch touchscreen, offering Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Uconnect was intuitive, with hard buttons for essential functions. The Wrangler included off-road and Hybrid Electric Pages but lacked some modern tech features like wireless charging. The instrument cluster combined traditional gauges with a 7-inch display for essential information.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and featured extensive safety equipment, including collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and a high-strength battery cage. Its top speed was electronically capped at 180 km/h, and it introduced a new sensor platform for enhanced safety.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe shared its structure with other Wranglers, receiving a Good rating in most IIHS tests but a Marginal rating in the driver’s side small overlap front test. Safety features were limited, with blind spot monitoring and rear park assist standard only on the Unlimited Sahara High Altitude. The Advanced Safety Group offered additional features like adaptive cruise control.