Jeep begins electrification stategy with plug-in hybrid Renegade 4xe

Jeep has revealed its first electrified model to be sold in the UK, the Renegade 4xe, which will arrive in dealerships from September.

Using a new plug-in hybrid powertrain, the Renegade is the first of a number of electrified Jeeps to launch.

The Compass 4xe, using the same powertrain will be available shortly after.

Jeep says the new model stays true to its core values by offering a high level of off-road capability.

The new Jeep Renegade 4xe line-up includes three trim levels – Longitude, Limited and Trailhawk – all featuring four-wheel-drive (eAWD) and a six-speed automatic transmission.

Prices start at £32,600 on-the-road for the Longitude. Limited versions cost from £34,500, while the Trailhawk starts at £36,500.

The powertrain comprises a 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine at the front and an electric motor located between the rear axle. There is also a smaller electric motor/generator attached to the petrol engine.

An 11.4kWh battery powers the motor and can be recharged while driving or through an external power outlet or charge point.

Charging from a regular socket takes about five hours, while a 7.4kW wallbox can deliver a charge in less than two hours.

Longitude and Limited versions deliver 190PS, while the Trailhawk model has 240PS. Torque is the same on both models, the electric motor produces 250Nm, while the combustion engine delivers 270Nm.

Acceleration from 0-62mph takes around 7.5 seconds, while the top speed is 124mph or 81mph in electric mode. Jeep quotes a WLTP fuel consumption figure of 123-134mpg and CO2 emissions of less than 50g/km.

The full functionality of the 4xe four-wheel drive is guaranteed by the ’Powerlooping‘ function when the battery charge level is low. This ensures that the front electric motor, mechanically connected to the internal combustion engine, continuously generates high-voltage current to power the rear electric motor and deliver maximum traction regardless of the state of charge of the battery.

All versions of the Renegade 4xe are fitted with Jeep’s largest 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system. It includes sat nav and a range of connected services, including a smartphone app.