Jeep Expands Electrified Line-Up with New Compass E-Hybrid and 4xe Variants in Australia
Jeep is making significant strides in the electrified vehicle market with the introduction of two new variants of its Compass small SUV in Australia: the E-Hybrid (mild hybrid) and the 4xe (plug-in hybrid). These models will join the existing Grand Cherokee 4xe in Jeep's growing electrified portfolio, arriving next month in both Limited and Summit trim levels.
Pricing and Market Competition
The new Jeep Compass E-Hybrid and 4xe come with competitive pricing:
- Compass Limited E-Hybrid: Starting at $45,990 (a $4500 premium over the Night Eagle 2.4-litre petrol model)
- Compass Limited 4xe PHEV: Priced at $61,990
- Compass Summit E-Hybrid: Starting at $54,990
- Compass Summit PHEV: Priced at $69,990
These models will compete in the small hybrid SUV segment against several established players, including:
- Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV AWD: From $47,790
- Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid: From $36,480
- Toyota C-HR hybrid: From $42,990
- Nissan Qashqai E-Power: From $51,590
- Hyundai Kona hybrid: From $36,000
- Subaru Crosstrek hybrid: From $38,590
- Honda HR-V eL: From $47,000 drive-away
Jeep Compass E-Hybrid: Features and Performance
The front-wheel-drive Compass E-Hybrid is powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a 48-volt, 17.5Ah battery driving an integrated electric traction motor. This setup allows the vehicle to operate under electric power at low speeds (below 15km/h) and while parking. The electric motor also assists with performance at higher speeds.
Key performance metrics for the E-Hybrid include:
- Combined system power: 96kW at 5250rpm
- Torque: 240Nm from 1560rpm
- Combined fuel consumption: 5.1 litres per 100km
Notable features include Silent Start, which allows for pure-electric driving without starting the petrol engine, and several driving modes such as Energy Recovery (regenerative braking and coasting), Boost & Load Point Shift (providing a torque boost from the electric motor), and Electric Drive.
The Compass E-Hybrid also boasts a greater towing capacity than the existing 2.4-litre Tigershark petrol model, with a braked rating of 1450kg.
Jeep Compass 4xe: Advanced Hybrid Powertrain
The Compass 4xe features all-wheel drive and employs a new 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine from the Stellantis Global Small Engine family. This engine is paired with two electric motors: one attached to the engine and the other on the rear axle, powered by an 11.4kWh battery. The vehicle uses a conventional six-speed automatic transmission to deliver power to all four wheels.
Performance highlights for the Compass 4xe include:
- Maximum combined output: 176kW
- Engine and front electric motor: 132kW at 5750rpm and 270Nm at 1850rpm
- Rear electric motor: 44kW and 250Nm
Conclusion
With the addition of the Compass E-Hybrid and 4xe variants, Jeep is bolstering its electrified line-up in Australia, providing customers with advanced hybrid technology and a range of features designed to enhance efficiency and performance. As the market for electrified vehicles continues to grow, Jeep's commitment to offering diverse and capable options ensures it remains a competitive player in this evolving landscape.