Jeep has turned the tide in 2020 as it launched its first plug-in hybrid as an electrified version of its popular Renegade.
Known as the 4xe, it’s the start of something big for Jeep as it seeks to create a new range of more efficient models across its range, but without tarnishing the thing Jeep is known for – ruggedness.
And if you’re looking for a quirky plug-in hybrid crossover or SUV, the Renegade 4xe is well worth considering. Here are five highlights of it.
It’s the first Jeep that can run on electricity
If someone says the word ‘Jeep’, there’s a good chance you’ll immediately think of a big thirsty SUV or 4x4. But the Renegade 4xe aims to change that image and it’s the first model from the American firm that is able to run on electricity.
In fact, thanks to a 11.4kWh battery linked to a conventional petrol engine, this Jeep can travel for 26 miles on electricity alone. If you charge it regularly, there’s the possibility of some very low running costs – Jeep claims it can return up to 134mpg, while CO2 emissions of sub-50g/km are unheard of for a car like this. It means the Renegade could be especially cheap to run if you regularly top the batteries up,
Strong performance
Alongside efficiency, a second big benefit of a plug-in hybrid is often performance. And that’s true with this 4xe as it’s the most powerful Renegade by some margin.
The powertrain combines a turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and battery, and in the range-topping Trailhawk model (which gains more power), the result is an impressive 237bhp, which means it can reach 60mph in just 7.3 seconds – giving it a fair amount of pace.
Uncompromised off-roading ability
Jeep’s foundations come from its cars’ impressive off-roading ability, and the switch to hybrid power has only improved this.
That’s because of the way the powertrain is set up, the engine delivers power to the front wheels while the electric motor sits on the rear axle – meaning that all models come with four-wheel-drive, and are impressively capable.
Trailhawk models also add additional off-road features, including Jeep’s ‘Selec-Terrain’ system, which adds settings like a ‘Rock’ mode to provide greater ability away from tarmac.
You can choose how to use the electricity
Jeep has introduced a range of driving modes on the 4xe, which allow you to choose how you want to use that electricity and get the most from it.
If you flick it into ‘Electric’, for instance, it will run as an EV until the battery is depleted, while a ‘Hybrid’ setting will make the most of both the electricity and engine to get the best. Then there is ‘E-Save’ – a setting that both maintains charge in the battery and can also add additional charge. It means you can save the electricity for a later part of the journey – driving through a city, for example.
Developed connected services
Connected services are often extensive on hybrids and EVs, and Jeep has made sure it’s built up a range of functions to help drivers.
Called ‘Uconnect’, features include live charging information through your smartphone, along with ‘My Remote’, which allows you to monitor the condition of the car – from checking the doors are locked through to pre-conditioning the climate settings.
The Jeep Renegade 4xe is on sale now, with prices starting from £32,600.
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