Jeep, like so many other manufacturers, has a real focus on electrification at the moment. Of course, this brand’s background is very much in off-roaders, but the firm’s latest models have shown that this go-anywhere ability can be combined with electrification successfully.
It means that there are now a variety of electrified Jeeps on offer, bringing lower running costs but with the same chunky styling as before. Let’s take a look at what’s on offer.
Renegade
Hybrid
Jeep’s Renegade is the firm’s smallest model, packing beefy looks in a surprisingly compact size. It’s also been helped no end by the introduction of a new ‘regular’ hybrid version, which brings improved running costs and lower emissions. It combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 15kW electric motor, with the latter able to power the Renegade at slow speeds.
You get 130bhp and 240Nm of torque combined, which is sent to the wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.
PHEV
If you’re after a little more in the way of electrification, then the plug-in hybrid version of the Renegade will be right up your street. It uses a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine - available with either 128bhp or 177bhp - which is then linked to a 59bhp electric motor and an 11.4kWh battery.
The PHEV Renegade models all come with four-wheel-drive, too, with the petrol engine driving the front wheels and the electric motor the rears. Plus, as well as a claimed 134mpg, it should be able to travel for up to 30 miles on electric power alone.
Compass
The Compass is a great option for those who want a little more space from their new Jeep. Plus, it’s now available as a hybrid for the first time, so you really can get the best of both worlds with this new SUV.
Much the same as the Renegade, the Compass can be equipped with a ‘regular’ hybrid engine, using the same combination of 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and 15kW electric motor for improved running costs.
PHEV
The Compass is also available as a plug-in hybrid, which brings a better fully electric range than the regular version. Again, as with the Renegade, you get a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine combined with an electric motor and battery. You should see up to 30 miles of electric-only power, too.
With a six-speed automatic gearbox the Compass plug-in hybrid is a great cruiser, but all-wheel-drive also means it’ll handle some tougher conditions, too.