By the Rims & Tires Team
Compiled & reviewed by our West Georgia tire & wheel research team · Updated 2026-07-17
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is a plug-in hybrid Wrangler — the same body, the same four-wheel-drive hardware (Selec-Trac on the Sahara 4xe, Rock-Trac on the Rubicon 4xe), and the same off-road capability as the JL, but with a 375-horsepower hybrid system and approximately 500 additional pounds from the battery pack. That extra weight is the only meaningful difference in tire selection from a standard JL Wrangler. Off-road capability remains the dominant priority; you just need tires that can handle slightly more weight.
How the 4xe Compares to Standard JL Wrangler for Tires
The Jeep Wrangler 4xe uses the same tire sizes and fitments as the equivalent JL Wrangler trims. The additional weight from the PHEV battery system, approximately 450 to 500 pounds over the standard JL, doesn't require a different tire size. It does mean slightly higher load ratings are worth having, particularly off-road, where tire flex and sidewall loading during crawling and articulation stress the carcass more.
Both the standard JL and 4xe run 255/70R18 on Sahara and 285/70R17 on Rubicon (both stock from the factory), and can be upgraded further with lifting. The 4xe-specific trail ratings and drivetrain capabilities are unchanged from the JL platform — the suspension, lift compatibility, and axles are the same.
A Load Range E tire is a worthwhile specification on the 4xe compared to Load Range C on the same size for a lighter daily-driven JL. The extra carcass stiffness of LR-E provides marginally better sidewall protection during articulation with the additional weight.
Best Off-Road Tires for the Wrangler 4xe
All-terrain tires: the BF Goodrich KO2 and Falken Wildpeak AT3W are the strongest A/T options for the 4xe in stock sizes. Both carry Load Range C and E options, have 3PMSF winter ratings (relevant for Wrangler owners who wheel in winter), and have excellent sidewall protection for rocky terrain.
The Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT in Load Range E is a popular choice for 4xe owners who want stronger sidewall protection than standard A/T tires — the XLT designation indicates the extra-load construction designed for heavy trucks and SUVs.
Mud-terrain tires: the Toyo Open Country M/T and Nitto Trail Grappler are the top choices for 4xe owners who run technical trails with deep mud or rock. The extra weight of the 4xe battery is not a meaningful deterrent for these tires — they handle much heavier lifted trucks routinely.
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Lift Kits and Larger Tire Sizes for the 4xe
The Wrangler 4xe can be lifted with standard JL lift kits, but lift kit manufacturers have specifically tested clearances with the PHEV battery and wiring harness routing. Before installing a lift, verify the kit is specifically validated for 4xe use — some JL kits may interfere with 4xe-specific underbody components.
Most JL lift kits that work on 4xe allow the same upsized tires as a standard JL. A 2.5 to 3 inch lift typically opens up 37s; 40s demand a taller lift plus supporting drivetrain mods on most builds. The 4xe's extra weight means gearing is worth considering alongside tires, too: larger tires on a stock gear ratio reduce acceleration and increase fuel consumption.
Frequently asked
Does the Jeep Wrangler 4xe need different tires than the standard JL?
No — the same tire sizes and fitments work on both. The 4xe is approximately 450 to 500 pounds heavier, which makes Load Range E tires slightly more advisable over Load Range C in the same size. But the actual tire size, brand choices, and off-road capability considerations are identical to the standard JL Wrangler.
What tires come on the Jeep Wrangler 4xe from the factory?
The Sahara 4xe ships on 255/70R18 tires (Bridgestone Dueler A/T RH-S). The Rubicon 4xe comes with LT285/70R17 all-terrain tires. Exact OEM tire brand varies by model year — verify on the door jamb sticker before ordering replacements.
Can I lift a Wrangler 4xe?
Yes. Standard JL-compatible lift kits generally work on the 4xe with some caveats. Verify the kit is specifically tested for 4xe use — the battery routing and PHEV-specific underbody components can interfere with some JL lifts. Reputable lift kit manufacturers (Teraflex, Rough Country, EVO) have specific 4xe compatibility notes.
What is the best all-terrain tire for the Wrangler 4xe?
The BF Goodrich KO2 in the correct JL fitment (285/70R17 Rubicon stock spec, or larger for lifted builds) is the benchmark choice. It is 3PMSF winter-rated, has excellent sidewall protection, and is validated for every Wrangler variant. The Falken Wildpeak AT3W and Cooper Discoverer AT3 XLT are strong alternatives.
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Last updated 2026-07-17. General guidance only — confirm specifics with a local shop for your exact vehicle.