Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), Jeep’s parent
company, announced that will be offering a a plug-in hybrid version of the
Renegade in Europe starting 2020. The Renegade PHEV will be
produced at the Melfi plant, in Italy, alongside the ICE-powered Renegade and
Fiat 500X.
The automaker has invested more than € 200
million (US$ 230 million) to make the necessary preparations for the Renegade
PHEV to be produced at the Melfi facility. Jeep didn’t disclose details of the
powertrain, but the first pre-production units of the plug-in subcompact SUV
will be out next year.
The Renegade received a facelift this summer,
gaining new front and rear fascias, different wheel options, and several
updates inside. The engine lineup has also been revised, with the manufacturer
offering a 120 PS 1.0-liter three-cylinder, a 150 PS or 180 PS 1.3-liter four-cylinder, and updated
versions of its 1.6 and 2.0 diesels. Transmission choices include a six-speed
manual and a nine-speed auto.
The 2019 Jeep Renegade is already on sale in Europe,
with pricing starting at € 22,400 (US$ 25,799) in Italy, € 20,700 (US$ 23,841) in
Germany and £19,200 (US$ 25,178/€ 21,85) in UK.
