Jeep debuts plug-in hybrid in Compass and Renegade at the Geneva Motor Show

- The Jeep Compass and the India-bound Renegade will get plug-in hybrid technology.

- The new PHEV technology enhances off-road performance while taking advantage of the high torque control during take-off.

- Both the SUVs feature batteries which can be recharged by the internal combustion engine or by the plug-in charging cable.

Jeep showcased plug-in hybrid variant of the Compass and Renegade at the ongoing 2019 Geneva Motor Show. The duo is powered by a turbocharged 1.3-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor. The standard combustion engine powers the front wheels whereas the electric motor takes care of the rear axle lending both the SUVs an electrified all-wheel-drive system.

The Renegade has a combined output between 190bhp and 240bhp. This is enough to propel the baby SUV from zero to 100kmph in around seven seconds. On the other hand, the Compass plug-in hybrid variant gets 240bhp output, but the final number is yet to be officialised as they are pending homologation. Both cars are reported to have a pure electric range of approximately 50 kilometres and a top speed of 130kmph.

Jeep also claims that both SUVs with the new plug-in hybrid technology are more fun to drive, courtesy of improved acceleration and fast engine response. They also have a special instrument cluster and infotainment system giving out additional details regarding the hybrid powertrain.

Moreover, the off-roading capability will be further improved due to the torque supplied by the electric motor. Thanks to the new electric all-wheel-drive technology (eAWD), traction to the rear axle is not provided by a prop shaft but through a dedicated electric motor. This allows the two axles to be separated and to control the torque independently in a more effective way than a mechanical system.