Jeep Debuts Renegade & Compass PHEVs In Geneva:
New Hybrid Models, Show Their Face In Trailhawk Trim...
Last month, our sources told us that the Jeep brand would finally put the wraps off not only the new Jeep Renegade PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle), but a Compass variant as well at the Geneva International Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland. Well, the brand did exactly that this morning with the introduction to new Jeep PHEV lineup.
Both the electrified Renegade and Compass made their debut in their off-road Trailhawk trim, which proves Jeep is not sacrificing capability with it’s new powertrain layout. While most hybrid versions of vehicle have a different look than their standard combustion powertrain siblings, the Jeep Renegade and Compass PHEV don’t look any different than a standard Renegade or Compass Trailhawk model. The most subtle difference is the introduction of a letter “e” next to the “4×4” badges on the hatch of each, as well as the hood decals that clear state the letter and “4×4” moniker.
You would be hard pressed to see huge changes in the interior, over the standard model as well. However, you do get some additional buttons located near the climate controls that give you more select ability for the hybrid powertrain. Renegade and Compass PHEVs feature a dedicated instrument cluster and infotainment screen, updated in order to help the customer with information related to daily hybrid driving (similar to what is found on the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid).
Now, lets talk about the business end of the new Renegade and Compass PHEV… the powertrain. These new plug-in hybrid models are equipped with batteries that are rechargeable from an external power outlet located on the driver side of the vehicle as well as a consequence that can store more electric energy. This choice allows for the use of more powerful electric motors, which translate into a pure electric range of approximately 31 miles (50 kilometers) and about 80 mph (130 km/h) full electric top speed for both Renegade and Compass.
The electric units work in synergy with the new 1.3-liter turbo gasoline engine found on most 2019 Jeep Renegade models, to increase efficiency and power overall. For the Renegade, the power sits in the 190 and 240 horsepower range resulting in outstanding on-road performance: 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is reached in approximately seven seconds. The same figures – although still pending homologation – are achieved by the first plug-in hybrid Compass. Also, on the Compass, the simultaneous action of the internal combustion engine (ICE) and the electric motor delivers up to 240 horsepower of maximum power.
In addition, the new Jeep SUVs with plug-in hybrid technology are more fun to drive courtesy of improved acceleration and fast engine response. They are also extremely quiet and respectful of the environment with CO2emissions lower than 50 g/km.
Thanks to electrification, the Jeep PHEV lineup further improves its legendary off-road capability, courtesy of the greater torque offered by the electric motor and the ability to adjust it with extreme precision during take-off and while driving on the most challenging terrain, where a very low transmission ratio is needed. Thanks in part to the new electric all-wheel-drive technology (eAWD), traction to the rear axle is not provided by a prop shaft but through a dedicated electric motor. This allows the two axles to be separated and to control the torque independently in a more effective way than a mechanical system.
The Jeep brand continues to evolve, to develop and to bring its SUVs to the next level in line with its core values of freedom, authenticity and passion. Today the brand is embracing a new challenge and setting new standards. With Jeep Renegade and Jeep Compass featuring PHEV technology, driving fun becomes efficient and, for the first time, it will be possible to tackle the most extreme off-road trails not only in the utmost safety but also while listening to the sounds of nature.
Jeep has already announced earlier this year that electrification options will become available across all parts of the Jeep lineup. While no official launch dates have been release, we should see the Renegade PHEV launch sometime next year as a 2020 model. The Compass PHEV will then probably launch later in the model year, according to our sources.
Jeep Renegade and Compass PHEV Image Gallery:
