This year is set to be an important one for Jeep as it’s the first time one of its cars will be offered with an electrified powertrain – specifically a plug-in hybrid of its popular Renegade crossover.
As a firm known for producing rugged off-roaders, it might seem like a radical change from the norm. However, Jeep is promising that its new Renegade 4xe will offer even greater off-roading ability than regular versions when it reaches showrooms in September.
Here’s our buyer’s guide to the new model…
What powertrains are available?
The new Renegade 4xe mates together a turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol engine together with an electric motor and 11.4kWh battery, with all models featuring a new six-speed automatic gearbox that sends power to all four wheels.
However, two power outputs are available, with the 1.3-litre petrol engine being offered in outputs of either 128bhp or 178bhp. That means that when combined with a 59bhp electric motor, the 4xe is offered with either 187bhp or 237bhp in top-spec Trailhawk guise, which is the more off-road-centric version.
Jeep says the Renegade 4xe can run on electricity for 26 miles, which allows it to return up to 134mpg, with CO2 emissions sub-50g/km. However, it’s not just efficiency where it excels, but also performance, as the most powerful model will be able to reach 60mph in just 7.3 seconds, and hit a top speed of 124mph.
What trim levels are offered?
The new Renegade 4xe is available in three trim levels, with equipment highlights and pricing as follows.
Longitude – from £32,600
The Renegade 4xe plug-in hybrid comes with a generous amount of standard kit, with models featuring a seven-inch digital dial system, along with an 8.4-inch media screen boasting Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite navigation and a host of connected features. It also features 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control with preconditioning to heat or cool the cabin remotely, along with autonomous emergency braking and a system that can detect if the driver is drowsy.
Limited – from £34,500
Upgrade to the Limited version to get larger 18-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery and adaptive cruise control. It also comes with full LED lighting, electric lumbar support for the front seats and heated seats.
Trailhawk – from £36,500
At the top of the range, the Trailhawk version comes with the more powerful 237bhp output, along with more rugged styling – including a black bonnet, smaller alloy wheels with off-road tyres and Trailhawk badges. Elsewhere it comes with a heated steering wheel, reversing camera and self-parking ability and enhanced off-road tech thanks to a Selec-Terrain system.
What about personalisation?
There’s a fantastic range of personalisation available on the Renegade 4xe, with up to 18 different colours available – including some bold colours like Bikini (blue), Omaha Orange, and Pastel (red), along with the option to have a bi-coloured roof to add some extra flair. Top-spec Trailhawk versions also come in a special matte green finish.
Plug-in hybrids are also separated from the regular Renegade by blue exterior accents, along with a charging point on the left side of the vehicle, while four new alloy wheel designs have been created just for 4xe models.
In terms of conventional extras, there aren’t a huge range of options, but you can choose a Kenwood sound system, electric front seats and various charging cables, depending on where you’re going to plug in the vehicle.
Enquire on a new Jeep Renegade