2027 Jeep® Compass Will Get 48-Volt Mild-Hybrid Powertrain In South America

Jeep® is getting ready to electrify its South American lineup once again — this time with the introduction of a 48-volt mild-hybrid (mHEV) powertrain for the 2027 model year Compass. According to our friends at AutosSegredos, this update marks a significant step for Jeep in the region, aligning with Stellantis’ broader electrification strategy while keeping the current-generation Compass competitive against strong rivals like the Toyota Corolla Cross and an expanding wave of Chinese automakers.

A New Hybrid Era For Jeep South America – 

The upcoming Compass mHEV will join the Renegade and Commander in adopting the new 48-volt system, which integrates an electric motor and a compact 0.9 kWh battery. Unlike traditional plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), this setup doesn’t require external charging — instead, it captures and stores energy during braking and deceleration to assist the 1.3-liter Turbo 270 Flex four-cylinder engine.

This system can deliver an additional 28 horsepower (21 kW) and 5.6 kgfm (roughly 40 lb-ft) of torque through the electric motor, improving both acceleration and fuel efficiency. Stellantis will pair this hybrid powertrain with a 6-speed automatic transmission, skipping the dual-clutch unit used in other regions for a smoother, more refined driving experience.

Built To Be Efficient And Affordable – 

The 48-volt hybrid system is designed to offer meaningful efficiency gains without the cost and complexity of a PHEV. The compact battery will be positioned under the driver’s seat to help maintain the Compass’s interior space and practicality. An intelligent electronic controller manages transitions between electric, thermal (gasoline/ethanol), and hybrid modes to optimize performance and fuel economy in city and highway conditions.

Jeep will brand the new setup under the familiar “T270 Hybrid” nameplate, following the same logic as the 12-volt system currently used in some Fiat models in the region. The same powertrain will also extend across Stellantis’ other South American nameplates, including the Fiat Toro compact pickup and Jeep’s Renegade and Commander SUVs, ensuring parts and service commonality across multiple segments.

Marking A Milestone Year – 

The 2027 Compass mHEV will also celebrate the model’s 10th anniversary in South America — a fitting moment for Jeep to showcase its commitment to modernization without abandoning internal combustion power. With improved efficiency, lower emissions, and seamless hybrid assistance, the mild-hybrid Compass represents an important bridge between traditional and fully electric Jeeps yet to come.