On the road

Jeep goes zap

The automotive world’s embrace of electrified powertrains continues, as American off-road brand Jeep introduces hybrid versions of its compact Compass SUV and an all-electric Avenger SUV.

These new electrified Jeeps follow the August launch of the brand’s first plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. It will be joined in 2024 by two new e-hybrid variants of the compact Compass SUV, followed by the Avenger in the second half of 2024.

Due in the first half of 2024, the new Compass variants will replace the existing 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol powertrain with mild-hybrid electric (MHEV) and plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) technology. The Compass e-Hybrid FWD features a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, mated with a 48-volt 15kW/55Nm electric motor incorporated within a seven-speed dualclutch transmission. The Compass 4xe is a PHEV that combines a 1.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and a 44kW electric motor to deliver up to 50km of driving in full-electric mode.

The Jeep Avenger will target compact electric rivals including the Hyundai Kona EV and MG ZS EV. With a claimed electric range of up to 400km (WLTP) extra-urban and up to 550km (WLTP) around town, the Avenger features a 51kWh battery and a front-mounted electric motor sending 115kW/260Nm to its front wheels.

Visit the Jeep website to find out more.