See Photos of the Jeep Renegade and Compass Plug-In Hybrids
Jeep's plug-in hybrids, promising efficiency and capability, are likely to be on sale as 2020 models.
Jeep has never been the first name that comes to mind when one thinks about highly efficient, low-emissions vehicles, but Jeep apparently aims to change that by debuting plug-in-hybrid versions of the Renegade and Compass. Using batteries optimized for plug-in charging, Jeep was able to fit powerful electric motors claimed to offer up to 31 miles of EV-only range and a top EV speed of 81 mph for both the Renegade and the Compass.
The system combines a turbocharged 1.3-liter gasoline engine with the electric motor for a total output of 240 horsepower. Combined, Jeep claims, they provide enough oomph to scoot the Renegade to 60 mph in less than seven seconds.
The numbers apply to the Compass PHEV, which is still pending certification. Emissions are claimed to be lower than 50 g/km by EU measuring standards, well below the proposed 2021 EU target of 95 g/km.
Thanks to a dedicated rear motor that powers the rear wheels, a traditional prop shaft is not required. The PHEV Jeeps are not the first vehicle to employ this setup—various Toyotas also use this technology—and Jeep notes that it allows for more accurate proportioning of the torque split for more control. Combined with the constant torque properties of an electric motor, it provides more precision and control for maneuvering in rugged terrain.
As a side note, it's widely believed that the Alfa Romeo Tonale, which also debuted in Geneva, will be built on a version of the Renegade's platform, and it's not unreasonable to think the PHEV Tonale will share in this technology.
A PHEV-dedicated instrument cluster and infotainment offer information pertinent to the hybrid driving experience in both the Renegade and Compass.
Jeep earlier announced that the Renegade will be assembled in the maker's Melfi, Italy, plant, which has churned out more than 742,000 Renegades to date.
Jeep refers to both models' appearance in Geneva as a "preview" and accordingly hasn't yet released the rollout cadence or pricing, although we expect them to be 2020 models. At this point, neither a Renegade plug-in hybrid nor a Compass plug-in hybrid has been confirmed for sale in the United States.
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