The Jeep Renegade 4xe breaks new ground as the company’s first electrified vehicle in the UK.

Jeep’s introduction of a PHEV underlines how vital plug-in technology has become in the marketplace.

Happily, those who associate Jeep with rugged, go-anywhere capability need not worry, for the Renegade 4xe manages to deliver hybrid efficiency while retaining the brand’s legendary off-road ability.

Indeed, for those wanting to venture into challenging terrain, the PHEV is arguably even better than the standard vehicle because the electric motor offers additional power and low-speed torque.

At the top of the range sits this Trailhawk version, which takes a 1.3-litre petrol engine in an uprated 178bhp state of tune, and mates it to an 11.4kWh battery pack and a 59bhp electric motor.

The result is a combined 237bhp which, when combined with torque of 350Nm, offers strong performance and a 0-62mph time of just over seven seconds.

A six-speed automatic gearbox is responsive to throttle inputs and controls the revs in a capable manner.

For those with a keen eye on economy and emissions, the figures stack up pretty well.

When fully charged, the Renegade 4xe is capable of doing up to 26 miles on electric power alone. There’s also the promise of sub-50g/km of CO2, with claims of up to 134mpg being possible on the combined cycle when driving in ‘Hybrid’ mode.

With a standard 7.4kW garage wallbox, the motor can be recharged in under two hours.

When driven in a relaxed manner, the Renegade is quiet and smooth. The petrol engine only kicks in when you give the accelerator a more aggressive press.

The switch from electric to normal power is perhaps more noticeable than on other hybrid models.

The Renegade offers decent body control, although there’s a bit of roll to look out for when cornering at higher speeds.

With its four-wheel drive system, you feel plenty of on-road control, while Jeep describes the vehicle as best-in-class in terms of off-road capability.

This Trailhawk version is especially adept off road, with the promise of taking the most challenging trails in your stride due to exceptional levels of traction and manoeuvrability.

In terms of looks, the Renegade certainly doesn’t lack charisma , thanks to its stylish and robust appearance.

Its boxy shape lends itself to excellent headroom. Practicality is provided in plentiful supply, with the boot remaining at a very decent 330 litres even through the battery and hybrid system has been added.

All in all, the Renegade 4xe does a good job of combining practicality, hybrid efficiency and off-road prowess.

  • 2021 is a special year for Jeep as the brand marks its 80th birthday.

The Jeep legend began in 1941 with the fabled Willys MB – the first ever mass-produced 4x4 vehicle – and grew over the decades.

The 80th anniversary celebrations will continue throughout the year, with dedicated events created to bring customers and enthusiasts closer to the brand and its heritage.

The first event, a web conference earlier this week, saw the unveiling of the new 80th Anniversary special-edition models. Not only do these models pay tribute to the brand’s 80-year history, they also continue the long-established tradition, started in 1966, of producing special-edition models to mark special anniversaries or achievements.

The 80th Anniversary series will be available in the UK on Renegade, and Wrangler. Arriving in Spring.

Design cues include 80th Anniversary badging and low-gloss Granite Crystal accents; black leather seats with tungsten stitching and 80th Anniversary logo; high-gloss black interior accents and logo tag on seats and mats. Dedicated alloy wheels complete the exterior look.

THE LOWDOWN

Jeep Renegade 4XE PHEV Trailhawk

PRICE: £ 36,500 on the road

ENGINE: 1.3 turbo at 6 240hp

TRANSMISSION: Six-speed auto, four wheel drive

PERFORMANCE: 0-62mph in 7.1 seconds and max speed of 124mph

PEAK TORQUE: 350Nm at 1750rpm

ECONOMY: 122.8-134.5mpg, with CO2 ranging from 49-52g/km