Jeep is hitting the electrified trail with the launch of their first-ever plug-in hybrid models. Dubbed “4xe,” it pairs an emissions-friendly plug-in hybrid powertrain with the brand’s legendary off-road capability. The first model to get it? The Renegade and Compass.

The first-ever Jeep plug-in hybrids pack a 1.3-liter turbocharged motor belonging to FCA’s Global Small Engine (GSE) family. On its own, it makes either 130 or 180 horsepower. However, power is further supplemented by a 60-horsepower electric motor (combined output is at 190 or 240 horsepower). Together with a 11.4-kWh, 400-volt lithium-ion battery pack located underneath the rear seats and protected by a steel casing, the Jeep 4xe can reach around 41.8 kilometers in full electric mode.



Given Jeep’s “Trail Rated” guarantee, these electrified models guarantee up to 50 percent more torque than even their torquey diesel counterparts. In addition, thanks to the 4xe technology, 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 control the torque independently in a more effective way than a mechanical system, with traction being delivered to the rear wheels immediately when needed. In terms of charging, both models can be topped up in about 100 minutes using a 7.4-kW charger.

The 4xe is differentiated by the presence of blue highlights to its Jeep badge, a receptable for its charger, and of course, 4xe badging.



The Renegade and Compass 4xe are the first two Jeep models to have completed their testing and evaluation outside of North America. Despite this, the Italian-made Jeep’s development process included the Arjeplog Proving Grounds in Swedish Lapland. Plus, up to 3,800 kilometers of road tests were clocked up.

The Jeep Renegade 4xe and Compass 4xe will start their sale in Europe. Meanwhile, Jeep has confirmed that its iconic Wrangler will also pack a larger version of the powertrain. Instead of a 1.3-liter, it will pack a turbocharged 2.0-liter. Together with an electric motor, it should offer around 50 kilometers of zero emissions. This one is said to arrive before the end of 2020.