Why a PHEV is the Perfect All-in-One Vehicle for Ontario Drivers

For drivers across Ontario, the push toward electric vehicles is appealing—lower running costs, reduced emissions, and quiet operation. But concerns about range anxiety during long trips to cottage country and reduced performance in harsh winter conditions keep many from making the switch. If you're intrigued by the benefits of electric driving but need the freedom and reliability of gasoline power, a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) offers the ideal solution.

Stellantis leads the charge with three capable PHEVs designed for Ontario's diverse driving needs: the 2026 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid, the 2026 Jeep Wrangler 4xe, and the 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. Each vehicle delivers all-electric daily commuting while retaining the gasoline engine for total freedom on longer journeys and dependable cabin heating when temperatures drop.

How PHEVs Work for Ontario Lifestyles

Plug-in hybrids use both gasoline and electric power, allowing you to handle most daily trips on battery power alone while keeping the gasoline engine available for longer drives or rural adventures. Modern PHEVs offer between 30 and 50 kilometres of all-electric range, which covers the majority of typical Ontario commutes.

Stellantis PHEVs take this flexibility further. The Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid delivers up to 51 kilometres of electric-only range, the Wrangler 4xe offers up to 35 kilometres, and the Grand Cherokee 4xe provides up to 42 kilometres. For most urban and suburban trips—whether you're running errands in Belleville or commuting within the Greater Toronto Area—you can drive entirely on electricity. When the battery depletes, the gasoline engine activates automatically, giving you unlimited range for weekend getaways or trips across the province.

This dual-powertrain design also means no special infrastructure is required. You can charge overnight at home on a standard outlet, taking advantage of Ontario's Ultra-Low Overnight (ULO) electricity rates of just 3.9 cents per kilowatt-hour between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. With average October 2025 gas prices in Ontario at $1.287 per litre, the cost savings add up quickly when running on electricity for daily driving.

Real-World Cost Savings and Lower Maintenance

PHEVs reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to traditional gasoline vehicles, but they also cut down on engine wear. Since the hybrid system handles frequent short trips and stop-and-go traffic on battery power, the gasoline engine experiences less stress. Regenerative braking captures energy during deceleration, which not only recharges the battery but also reduces wear on brake pads and rotors.

Over time, this means fewer trips to the service bay and lower maintenance costs. PHEVs often cost less to maintain than conventional gas models because the mechanical components—engines, transmissions, and braking systems—experience reduced stress and fewer miles of operation.

Ontario's Grid Can Handle PHEV Growth

Independent Ontario grid studies indicate that PHEV adoption can rise significantly without requiring new power infrastructure, provided drivers charge during off-peak hours. Research shows that up to 500,000 vehicles could be charged at home in Toronto alone using the existing grid. Most Ontario residents in single-family homes or townhomes can recharge overnight using regular outlets, making PHEVs a low-impact solution while fast-charging infrastructure for full EVs continues to expand province-wide.

Stellantis PHEV Lineup at a Glance

2026 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid: Family-Friendly Efficiency

The Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid is Canada's only plug-in hybrid minivan and is assembled right here in Ontario. It delivers up to 51 kilometres of all-electric range and a total range exceeding 535 kilometres, making it ideal for both daily errands and extended family trips.

With seating for up to seven passengers, the Pacifica offers class-exclusive Stow 'n Go seating and storage, along with the available Stow 'n Vac system. Advanced safety features come standard, including Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking, LED lighting, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies. 

For Ontario families juggling school drop-offs, grocery runs, and weekend road trips, the Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid handles it all. You can drive locally on electricity during the week and use the gasoline engine for longer trips without worrying about charging stations or range limitations.

2026 Jeep Wrangler 4xe: Off-Road Capability Meets Electric Efficiency

The Jeep Wrangler 4xe is the most capable plug-in hybrid SUV available, delivering up to 35 kilometres of all-electric range and legendary Jeep off-road performance. With 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, the Wrangler 4xe provides strong acceleration and towing capability, while achieving a fuel economy rating of 4.8 Le/100 km.

Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the Wrangler 4xe's unmatched crawl ratios up to 77.2:1, Dana solid axles, and multiple 4x4 systems. The vehicle's E Selec modes—Hybrid, Electric, and eSave—allow you to tailor the powertrain to suit your driving conditions, whether you're cruising quietly through a provincial park on electric power or tackling rugged trails with the gasoline engine engaged.

Select Wrangler 4xe models also feature the Jeep 4xe Power Box, which draws energy from the high-voltage battery pack and offers four 120-volt outlets with 30 amps of total output. This allows you to power devices, lights, and small appliances at the campsite or trailhead without running the engine.

For Ontario drivers who want open-air freedom, trail-ready capability, and the flexibility to go anywhere without worrying about charging infrastructure, the Wrangler 4xe is the answer.

2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe: Premium Performance and Versatility

The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is the most technologically advanced Grand Cherokee ever, offering up to 42 kilometres of all-electric range and a fuel economy rating of 4.2 Le/100 km. With a combined total range of up to 761 kilometres, the Grand Cherokee 4xe balances luxury, capability, and efficiency.

Powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, the Grand Cherokee 4xe delivers 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. It also features the Quadra-Trac II 4x4 system with a two-speed transfer case and a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio, along with a crawl ratio of 47.4:1 and a maximum towing capacity of 2,721 kg (6,000 lbs).

The 2026 Grand Cherokee 4xe includes the new Trailhawk trim, the most capable Grand Cherokee in the entire lineup with a best-in-class departure angle and 470 pound-feet of standard torque. The Grand Cherokee 4xe's E Selec modes—Hybrid, Electric, and eSave—allow drivers to tailor the hybrid powertrain for commuting, off-roading, or long-distance travel.

The vehicle also includes a 400-volt, 17-kilowatt-hour battery pack with a dedicated heating and cooling circuit to maintain optimal performance in all weather conditions. For Ontario drivers who want a premium SUV that handles daily driving on electricity and long trips without compromise, the Grand Cherokee 4xe delivers class-leading space, advanced technology, and legendary Jeep capability.

Why PHEVs Make Sense in Ontario

Plug-in hybrids offer Ontario drivers the best of both worlds. You can drive locally on clean, inexpensive electricity charged overnight during off-peak hours, reducing your carbon footprint and fuel costs. When longer trips arise—whether you're heading to Muskoka, Ottawa, or beyond—the gasoline engine provides unlimited range and eliminates the need to search for charging stations.

Ontario's harsh winters also make PHEVs a practical choice. Unlike battery-electric vehicles, which can experience reduced range and slower charging times in cold weather, PHEVs retain their gasoline engines to ensure reliable cabin heating and consistent performance no matter the temperature.

• Dual powertrains: All-electric city driving with gasoline backup for long trips and rural commutes
• Lower operating costs: Reduced fuel consumption, less engine wear, and fewer trips to the pump
• No range anxiety: Drive anywhere, any season, regardless of charging infrastructure
• Ontario lifestyle integration: Home charging is easy, fuel flexibility for cottages and family road trips

Which Stellantis PHEV is Right for You?

Choosing the right PHEV depends on your driving needs and lifestyle. Here's a quick guide:

• Families needing space and versatility: The 2026 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid offers seating for up to seven, class-exclusive Stow 'n Go seating, and the longest electric range at 51 kilometres. 
• Adventure seekers and off-road enthusiasts: The 2026 Jeep Wrangler 4xe delivers legendary Jeep capability with 35 kilometres of electric range, open-air freedom, and the ability to power devices at the campsite.
• Premium SUV buyers: The 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe provides 42 kilometres of electric range, luxurious interior features, and up to 2,721 kg (6,000 lbs) of towing capacity. The new Trailhawk trim adds best-in-class off-road capability.

All three vehicles offer the flexibility to handle daily commutes on electricity while retaining the freedom to travel anywhere in Ontario without worrying about charging stations or range limitations.

Experience the Future of Driving at Belleville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat

Stellantis PHEVs combine the efficiency and environmental benefits of electric driving with the freedom and reliability of gasoline power. For Ontario drivers who want to reduce fuel costs, lower emissions, and maintain unlimited range, a plug-in hybrid is the smart choice.

Visit Belleville Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat in Belleville to explore the 2026 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid, 2026 Jeep Wrangler 4xe, and 2026 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, when it arrives later this year. Our team is ready to help you find the PHEV that fits your lifestyle and answer any questions about charging and ownership costs. Book your test drive today and discover how a Stellantis PHEV can work for you.