Meet the Jeep Renegade 4xe plug-in hybrid, the car Jeep reckons is capable of adding to its off-road reputation.
The company says it will be its most fuel-efficient SUV ever, with new 4xe technology offering zero tailpipe-emissions in full electric mode.
But it is quick to pint out that efficiency is not achieved at the expense of performance.
Built in Italy, the Renegade 4xe remains true to its all-terrain heritage while offering an enhanced driving experience on the road, with smooth response and acceleration.
Increased torque generated by the electric motor and the ability to adjust it with extreme precision, ensures even greater four-wheel-drive capability on any terrain.
At the same time CO2 emissions are lower than 50g/km in hybrid mode and it can travel up to 42km in fully electric mode with zero emissions.
The hybrid powertrain pairs a 1.3-litre turbo petrol engine with an electric motor that is located between the rear axle, powered by an 11.4 kWh battery that can be recharged while driving or through an external power outlet or charge point.
Available in two states of tune, the petrol engine delivers outputs 97kW or 134kW, with another 45kW from the electric motor.
This gives Longitude and Limited grades a total of 142kW and top of the line Trailhawk, 179kW.
In terms of torque, the petrol engine delivers 270Nm and the electric motor, 250Nm.
The combination of an internal combustion engine and the electric units guarantees performance and maximum driving pleasure, with acceleration from 0 to 100km/h in around 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 130km/h in full electric mode and up to 200km/h in hybrid mode.
It also feature a new six-speed automatic transmission, updated Selec-Terrain rotary control with eAWD modes (4WD Lock, 4WD Low, Hill Descent Control) to engage the different driving modes – Auto, Snow, Mud & Sand, and Rock – including the new Sport mode for enhanced throttle response and steering.
Renegade 4xe is built at the FCA Melfi Plant in Basilicata (Italy), where the Jeep Renegade has been in production since 2014.
Testing was carried out at the Arjeplog Proving Grounds in Swedish Lapland where up to 3800km of road tests were clocked up, putting the Renegade hybrid through its paces in all conditions that customers might need to tackle.
An array of activities were carried out to ensure quality, safety, reliability, and comfort in all conditions.
On longer trips, combined with the internal combustion engine, CO2 emissions are less than 50g/km in hybrid mode.
In case of extended off-road driving, two electric motors featuring Powerloop ensure that eAWD traction is always available.
The new Jeep Renegade 4xe stands out from its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts thanks to the striking blue Jeep, Renegade and 4xe badges.
An additional push cover on the vehicle’s left side, towards the rear, covers the charging port and is unique to the 4xe model.
Inside the cabin, a 7-inch TFT colour display and Uconnect NAV with 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and DAB radio are offered as standard. Black accents adorn the air vents, speakers, and center console bezels on the Longitude and Limited trims, while the Trailhawk trim sports Ruby red accents.
