The Jeep Compass II (MP) 1.3 (190 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4xe Automatic, launched in July 2020 and produced through April 2021, represents a significant step in Jeep’s electrification strategy for the European and global markets. This variant is built on the 551 platform, also known as the Small Wide architecture, shared with other Stellantis brands. It aimed to provide a more fuel-efficient and environmentally conscious option within the Compass II range, appealing to buyers seeking a blend of Jeep’s off-road capability and reduced emissions. The 4xe designation signifies Jeep’s commitment to hybrid technology, and this model was a key component in their push towards offering more electrified vehicles.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Jeep |
| Model | Compass |
| Generation | Compass II (MP) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (190 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4xe Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2020 |
| End of production | April, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 47-50 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 1.9 l/100 km (123.8 US mpg, 148.7 UK mpg, 52.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 44 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 183 km/h (113.71 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Final |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 145.2 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 11.4 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 50 km (31.07 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 22.9 kWh/100 km (36.85 kWh/100 mi, 91 MPGe, 4.4 km/kWh, 2.7 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 130 km/h (80.78 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 60 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 190 Hp |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 5550 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1850 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 46337540 |
| Engine displacement | 1332 cm3 (81.28 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 70 mm (2.76 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.5 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1860 kg (4100.6 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2400 kg (5291.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 420 l (14.83 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1230 l (43.44 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 36.5 l (9.64 US gal | 8.03 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 68 kg (149.91 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Length | 4394 mm (172.99 in.) |
| Width | 1819 mm (71.61 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2035 mm (80.12 in.) |
| Height | 1649 mm (64.92 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2636 mm (103.78 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.07 m (36.32 ft.) |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Jeep Compass 4xe utilizes a plug-in hybrid powertrain centered around a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder engine (code 46337540). This engine, part of Stellantis’s Firefly family, produces 130 horsepower at 5550 rpm and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque at 1850 rpm. It’s paired with a 60 horsepower electric motor driving the rear wheels, resulting in a combined system output of 190 horsepower. The engine employs direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance efficiency and power delivery. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, specifically tuned to work in conjunction with the electric motor and hybrid system. The 11.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is positioned under the floor and rear seats, minimizing impact on passenger space. The powertrain allows for all-electric driving for up to 50 km (31 miles) under the NEDC cycle.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.3-liter 4xe Automatic offers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the non-hybrid Compass variants. In electric mode, the vehicle provides near-silent operation and instant torque, making it ideal for city driving. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally smooth, although some drivers have noted a slight hesitation during certain acceleration scenarios. The combined output of 190 hp provides adequate performance, with a 0-60 mph time of around 7.5 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine and electric motor, providing responsive shifts. Compared to the 1.4-liter gasoline-only Compass, the 4xe offers improved acceleration and a more refined driving experience. However, the added weight of the battery pack does slightly impact handling, making it feel less agile than its lighter counterparts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 (190 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4xe Automatic was typically offered in well-equipped trim levels, often positioned as a mid-range to premium option within the Compass II lineup. Standard features generally included an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or leatherette, with options for full leather available. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and parking assist features.
Chassis & Braking
The Compass 4xe utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. The suspension tuning is geared towards providing a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels. The 4xe also incorporates regenerative braking, which helps to recapture energy during deceleration and recharge the battery. The vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system is electronically controlled, distributing torque between the front and rear axles as needed to optimize traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Jeep Compass 4xe was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its fuel efficiency, electric range, and refined driving experience. However, some reviewers noted the relatively high price compared to non-hybrid Compass models. Compared to the 1.4-liter gasoline version, the 4xe offered significantly better fuel economy and lower emissions, but at a higher initial cost. Against competitors like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, the Compass 4xe offered a unique blend of Jeep’s off-road heritage and plug-in hybrid technology. Reliability reports have been generally positive, although some owners have reported minor issues with the hybrid system.
Legacy
The Jeep Compass II 1.3 (190 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid 4xe Automatic played a crucial role in establishing Jeep as a player in the growing plug-in hybrid market. The powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable, and the vehicle remains a popular choice on the used car market. The 4xe technology has since been expanded to other Jeep models, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to electrification. As environmental regulations become stricter, the demand for plug-in hybrid vehicles like the Compass 4xe is expected to continue to grow, solidifying its place as an important milestone in Jeep’s history.
