The Jeep EXL is a 1,368 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2016 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, a single twin‑scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), delivering outputs ranging from 110 kW (150 PS) to 132 kW (180 PS) with torque figures between 230–270 Nm. Its compact design enables strong low‑end torque for responsive urban drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Renegade and Compass, the EXL engine was engineered for a balance of fuel efficiency, zippy performance, and compact packaging suitable for smaller SUV platforms. Emissions compliance was achieved through gasoline particulate filter (GPF) and advanced engine management, allowing Euro 6d‑TEMP compliance for most production years.
One documented engineering update addressed potential high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear under sustained high‑load conditions, highlighted in FCA Service Bulletin 18‑045‑19. This was linked to specific fuel quality tolerances and duty cycles. Revised pump internals and updated engine control software were introduced from MY2020 production.
Production years 2016–2019 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2020–2023 models meet Euro 6d standards depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Jeep EXL is a 1,368 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for compact SUVs (2016-2023). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low‑end power and efficient highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP/Euro 6d standards, it balances urban agility with touring economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,368 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
| Power output | 110–132 kW (150–180 PS) | |
| Torque | 230–270 Nm @ 1,500–3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | High-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (pre‑2020); Euro 6d (2020+) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single twin‑scroll turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | FCA MS-12991 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 105 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo provides immediate throttle response ideal for city traffic but requires premium unleaded (95 RON minimum) to prevent pre-ignition and protect the high-pressure fuel pump. FCA MS-12991 (5W-40) oil is critical for maintaining turbo bearing and chain longevity. Sustained high-RPM operation should be followed by a brief idle period to cool the turbocharger. Revised HPFP units from MY2020 address wear concerns documented in FCA SIB 18-045-19. The GPF system mandates low-ash oil to prevent filter clogging and requires periodic highway driving for passive regeneration.
Oil Specs: Requires FCA MS-12991 specification (FCA Owner's Manual). Supersedes ACEA C2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP certification applies to pre-2020 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). 2020+ models meet Euro 6d.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak output requires 95 RON fuel (FCA TIS Doc. TIS-EXL-201).
FCA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs TIS-EXL-101, TIS-EXL-102, SIB 18-045-19
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Jeep EXL was used across Jeep's Small Wide 4x4 platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts for the Renegade and revised exhaust routing for the Compass-and from 2020 the facelifted models adopted updated engine control units and emissions hardware, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the timing cover (FCA TIS Doc. TIS-EXL-005). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('3' for 1.3L). Pre-2020 models have a silver engine cover with a black intake manifold; post-2020 units feature a black engine cover. Critical differentiation: Early EXL engines use Bosch MED17.3.7 ECU, while post-2020 units use MED17.9.53 with updated emissions mapping. Service parts, particularly for the fuel system, require model year and production date verification due to the HPFP revision (FCA SIB 18-045-19).
The EXL engine's primary reliability consideration is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) longevity under specific conditions, with elevated incidence in sustained high-load, high-temperature environments. FCA internal quality reports from 2020 noted a measurable rate of premature HPFP wear in pre-MY2020 builds, while owner feedback frequently cites GPF regeneration issues in predominantly short-trip urban driving. Consistent use of correct fuel grade and oil specification makes preventative maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from FCA technical bulletins (2018-2022) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about JEEP EXL.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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