New Plug-In Formula
With the European Union reportedly preparing to loosen the 2035 ban on new gas-powered cars, Jeep’s multi-energy strategy in Europe is starting to look increasingly well-timed. The American marque’s latest move in that direction is quietly introducing a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant for the Compass.
This setup is notably different from the more familiar 4xe PHEV system offered on U.S.-spec models such as the Wrangler and Grand Cherokee. Instead of chasing outright performance and off-road capability, the Compass adopts a less powerful but more accessible PHEV configuration, allowing more buyers to experience EV-like driving without the typical range anxiety. Like other PHEVs, it can be plugged in for electric driving while still relying on a conventional gas tank for longer trips.
Different Take on Electrification
The 4xe option – which previously delivered 240 horsepower and came standard with a four-wheel-drive system – does not appear in the online configurator for the latest third-generation Compass in the region.
Instead, the new Compass PHEV e-Hybrid uses a 1.6-liter inline-four gasoline engine paired with an electric motor, which, when combined, produces 225 horsepower. Power is sent exclusively to the front wheels through a 7-speed automatic transmission.
In all-electric mode, the Compass PHEV e-Hybrid can travel up to 92 kilometers (57 miles) based on the WLTP test cycle. When operating with both the electric motor and combustion engine working together, the total driving range stretches to as much as 983 kilometers (611 miles).
Charging can be completed in under three hours when connected to a 7 kW AC charger.
America Still Awaits
In Europe, the Compass PHEV e-Hybrid is sold alongside two other electrified variants. The mild-hybrid version pairs a gasoline engine with a 21-kW electric motor for a combined output of 145 horsepower. In contrast, the fully electric Compass delivers 230 hp and offers a WLTP-estimated driving range of up to 650 kilometers (404 miles).
As of this writing, the all-new Compass has yet to arrive in the U.S. market, with reports suggesting it may not come until the 2028 model year due to production and supply-chain challenges. In the meantime, American buyers continue to get the second-generation Compass, a model that has been on sale for nearly a decade and currently serves as Jeep’s entry-level offering, with a starting price of $28,995.
