Jeep Renegade 4xe

Alex Grant tries Jeep’s first PHEV for Europe – an urban SUV with a broad spread of talents

Jeep Renegade 4xe

Alex Grant tries Jeep’s first PHEV for Europe – an urban SUV with a broad spread of talents

SECTOR COMPACT SUV PRICE £32,500-£36,500 RANGE 26 miles CO2 49-51g/km CHARGING 0-100% 2-5hrs

In the increasingly saturated compact SUV segment, it pays to stand out from the crowd. Spacious, ruggedly-styled and genuinely capable off-road, the Renegade’s distinctive character has helped Jeep secure its first high-volume foothold in Europe. With the first plug-in hybrid version, it’s hoping to explore some new opportunities in fleet.

As the 4xe (pronounced “four-by-e”) badging suggests, the plug-in Renegade has four-wheel drive, but there’s no mechanical connection between the axles. Power is supplied to the front wheels by a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine and six-speed automatic gearbox, assisted by a 60hp electric motor at the rear wheels when traction is low.

Set it to one of its sand, mud or snow-tuned drive modes, and a small starter-generator fitted to the engine ensures there’s always enough energy in the battery to keep all four wheels turning. For most drivers, though, it’s the efficiency that counts. A full charge of the 11.4kWh battery provides a range of 26 miles using just the electric motor, in turn contributing to CO2 emissions from 49g/km and 12% Benefit-in-Kind. Having discontinued the diesel versions in the UK, the next most efficient Renegade comes in at an eyewatering 152g/km.

Like any plug-in hybrid, the full benefits are unlocked by regular charging. Jeep’s claimed electric range is realistic, the motor is peppy enough for around-town driving, and there’s an option to dial in extra regenerative braking when needed, a little like shifting down a gear. A full charge takes less than two hours using a 7.4kW charging point, which is quick for a hybrid, but the Type 2 cable required to do so is a £300 option. Using the included three-pin plug extends charging time to around five hours.

Regardless of remaining electric range, the system defaults to ‘Hybrid’ mode on startup. With only 60hp of electric power, the Renegade is prone to leaning on the petrol engine even at moderate loads and can feel underpowered on motorways. Once the electric range is depleted, the Renegade can ‘coast’ on flowing roads, while regular engine switch-offs help coax fuel economy up to 40mpg with a gentle right foot. With 190hp combined system output, it’s got the power when you need it.

Otherwise, it functions much like any other Renegade. The cabin is spacious if a little plasticky, and the only loss of cargo space is a section of the under-floor compartment. Jeep has also carried over the three-trim line-up, including a Trailhawk version with under-floor protection, bodywork shaped for crawling over rough terrain and an extra 50hp to help do so.

However, most UK buyers are expected to go for the mid-spec Limited, which includes leather upholstery, adaptive cruise control and LED lighting, while keeping CO2 under 50g/km. All versions include an 8.4-inch touchscreen with the usual smartphone connectivity and hybrid-specific functions, and this will integrate with FCA’s fleet management platform, which is due to launch imminently. In a saturated part of the market, it’s a useful extra USP to help set Jeep apart from the crowd.