Jeep is going green in Europe as the company will offer a fully electrified portfolio in a number of markets – including Belgium, Germany, France, Portugal, the Netherlands, and Nordic countries – by the end of the year.
As part of this effort, the brand has introduced entry-level e-Hybrid versions of the Compass and Renegade.
Both models feature a new turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine that develops 130 hp (97 kW / 132 PS) and 177 lb-ft (240 Nm) of torque. The company said the engine has been “designed to be the best fit for hybrid usage” as it operates on the Miller cycle, offers a high compression ratio of 12.5:1, and has a high-pressure direct injection system operating at up to 350 bar. The engine also features a belt starter generator to “guarantee fast and silent transitions when restarting.”
The engine is joined by a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, a regenerative braking system, and an electric motor that develops 20 hp (15 kW / 20 PS) and 41 lb-ft (55 Nm) of torque. While the motor isn’t a powerhouse, it can propel the vehicles at low speeds such as those found in stop-and-go traffic. The powertrain also has an e-boost function, but the big news is that the e-Hybrids help to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 15%.
Also Read: 2022 Jeep Wrangler Updated In Europe, Sold Exclusively As 4xe Plug-In Hybrid
To highlight the new models, Jeep will be launching an Upland special edition that features sustainable materials as well as eco-friendly paints and finishes. In particular, they have an exclusive Matter Azur exterior with a contrasting black roof and 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels with a gloss black finish. They’re joined by MetaKrome bronze accents and a hood decal.
Moving into the cabin, buyers will find exclusive SEAQUAL seats made with plastic recovered from the Mediterranean. They feature contrast stitching, an organic vinyl insert, and Jeep logos on the backrests. The seats will be joined by MetaKrome bronze accents and materials derived from recycled plastics.
Besides the special edition, there will be Longitude, Night Eagle, Limited, and S trims. The models will be offered in a variety of markets besides the ones mentioned above, but there’s a big caveat as they’ll come equipped with front-wheel drive.