Jeep Compass Goes Electric: A Shift Towards Electrification
Jeep Compass Goes Electric: A Shift Towards Electrification
Are you ready to join the electrification revolution with the all-new Jeep Compass?
Jeep’s popular and affordable model, the Compass, is getting a complete electrified makeover. The existing petrol and diesel engines will be replaced by new e-Hybrid and plug-in hybrid 4xe variants, arriving in Australia in 2024. This move will pit the Compass against rivals like the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV and MG HS Plug-in EV. Additionally, the Compass will now be sourced from Italy instead of India, subjecting it to new import tariffs.
The e-Hybrid variant offers front-wheel drive and is equipped with a 97kW/240Nm 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It also features an electric motor integrated into the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, providing an additional boost of up to 15kW and 55Nm. This allows for driving in full electric mode at low speeds, while cruising or creeping, and during parking manoeuvres.
The 4xe plug-in hybrid offers all-wheel drive and comes with an 11.4kWh battery that powers an electric motor. Paired with a turbocharged 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, it allows for a greater electric-only driving experience. The claimed total range of the 4xe is 49km, with system outputs of either 142kW or 179kW, depending on the variant.
The transition to electrified powertrains and European sourcing may lead to an increase in prices, although specific details have not been provided by Jeep Australia. Currently, the Compass starts at $41,400 before on-roads, making it one of the more expensive vehicles in its segment. The exact model lineup for the electrified Compass is yet to be confirmed by the brand.
The current Compass range includes the front-wheel drive Night Eagle and all-wheel drive Limited and S-Limited models, powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. The flagship Trailhawk, which currently uses a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine, is available overseas with the 4xe powertrain. Earlier this year, Jeep introduced its first plug-in hybrid model, the Grand Cherokee 4xe, in Australia. The brand’s first electric vehicle, the Avenger, is set to debut in the second half of 2024, positioning itself below the Compass in terms of size, although pricing details are yet to be confirmed.
The Compass holds the title of Jeep’s best seller, with 951 units sold as of July, followed by the Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, and Gladiator.
- Jeep Compass is transitioning to an all-electric lineup
- New e-Hybrid and plug-in hybrid 4xe variants will be introduced
- Compass will now be sourced from Italy, leading to import tariffs
- Compass will compete with Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross PHEV and MG HS Plug-in EV
Jeep’s decision to electrify the Compass marks a significant shift towards more sustainable and efficient transportation. With the introduction of new e-Hybrid and plug-in hybrid 4xe variants, the Compass is poised to compete against its rivals in the electrified crossover market. While pricing and exact model lineups remain uncertain, the move to European sourcing and electrified powertrains indicates a new era for this popular Jeep model.
