4xe DISCONTINUED + MT Tires vs Lockers: Which Mod First? + 392 Rant

Welcome to Episode 1407 of the **Jeep Talk Show**—we're now in our **16th year** delivering unfiltered Jeep talk, trail tips, mod advice, and real community vibes! In this episode, Tony dives into the **shocking news** that's rocking the Jeep world right now: **Stellantis has officially discontinued the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) 4xe models** in North America starting with the 2026 model year. The Wrangler 4xe and Grand Cherokee 4xe have vanished from Jeep's build configurator—no press release, no fanfare, just quietly pulled. We break down why this happened: ongoing recalls (battery fires, power issues, stop-sales), shifting demand with lower gas prices, the end of big EV incentives, and why simpler gas or mild-hybrid setups might make more sense for real off-roaders. Current 4xe owners—don't panic; get your recalls handled, and Jeep should keep supporting parts for years. Is this a smart pivot away from problematic tech, or a step back from "green"? We discuss the pros/cons and what it means for the future of electrified Jeeps. We also tackle the classic budget mod question: **Mud-Terrain (MT) tires first, or lockers?** Tires are the foundation—they touch the ground and give instant gains in mud, loose dirt, rocks, and looks (that aggressive stance!). Lockers shine in extreme rock crawling where wheels lift off, but on a budget, many Jeepers swear by starting with MTs for better "two-tire grip" across axles vs. four potentially spinning. We share real thoughts on why MTs often win for everyday wheeling, plus when lockers become essential. What's your pick? Drop it in the comments! Tony rants (again) about **Wrangler 392 pricing**—why are we still seeing these V8 beasts priced way too high (even after recent drops like the new Moab 392 specials coming in ~$20k cheaper than prior Rubicons)? With gas prices down and love for that Hemi torque/sound, Jeep could move way more units by making it more accessible—closer to a loaded 3.6 Rubicon premium. Come on, Jeep—keep the go-anywhere spirit alive without luxury pricing! Communications corner: Is **ham radio for emergency use** obsolete with GMRS, cell phones, and Starlink? We explore why ham still rules as a resilient backup (no grid/internet needed, global reach in disasters like hurricanes or EMP scenarios). GMRS is easier for trail chats, but build a layered plan—test your gear, know repeater backups, and stay ready. 73 to the hams out there! Bonus: Tony announces his **new interview show** (The Tony Muckleroy Show on YouTube & Spotify)—wide-ranging convos on anything interesting, starting with a personal one on paranormal experiences with his daughter. Check it out for ghosts, stories, or random deep dives! Thanks for watching/listening, Jeep family! Smash that **LIKE**, **SUBSCRIBE**, and hit the bell for more. Comment your thoughts on the 4xe news, MTs vs. lockers, 392 pricing, or ham radio. Send voice messages/ideas via jeep talkshow.com/contact, DM on X @TonyMuckleroy, or call in next live! Support us on Patreon at jeeptalkshow.com/contact for perks and to keep the show rolling. Leave a 5-star review—it helps big time! Keep the shiny side up, rubber side down, and four wheels driving. See you on the trail! #JeepTalkShow #JeepWrangler #4xeDiscontinued #Wrangler392 #OffRoadMods #HamRadio #JeepCommunity #JeepLife 00:00 Show Introduction 00:51 Ham Radio Basics and Licenses 02:04 Four-by-E Plug‑In Hybrid Phase-out 04:59 Jeep Powertrain, V8 Debate and Fuel Prices 09:01 Listener Interaction and Fuel Outlook 10:39 Launch of the Tony McElroy Show 13:43 Lockers vs Mud‑Terrain Tires – Part 1 17:37 Lockers vs Mud‑Terrain Tires – Part 2 22:25 Jeep Pricing and the March Model Discussion 25:06 Additional Jeep Price Concerns 28:09 Emergency Communications Overview 34:32 Detailed Emergency Communication Strategies 40:35 Planning Your Emergency Communication Setup 46:29 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Visit our website: https://jeeptalkshow.com/ Watch/Listen on Spotify https://jeeptalkshow.com/spotify Join our Discord Server: https://jeeptalkshow.com/discord Subscribe to our newsletter: https://jeeptakshow.com/newsletter Help Support the show via Patreon: https://jeeptalkshow.com/patreon